Manufacturing Engineer – Propulsion & Machinery Installation Planning

Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations through autonomous and intelligent platforms.

The Manufacturing Engineer – Propulsion & Machinery Installation Planning defines the complex, high-precision installation steps and processes used to install, align, and commission main propulsion equipment, reduction gears, shafting, bearings, and associated drive train components aboard autonomous surface vessels. This role also plans installation of other critical ship's machinery systems, including anchor handling systems, ramp installation, and ramp lowering/actuation systems specific to LCU-type vessel programs.

This role translates design intent and manufacturer requirements into sequenced, repeatable installation processes that production teams can execute precisely and safely.

Propulsion and machinery installation carries far less tolerance for error than general outfitting. A shaft line that is out of alignment, a foundation that is not set correctly, or a ramp and anchor system that is not installed and tested to specification, can cause vibration, equipment failure, or a mission-critical system failure once the vessel is underway or beaching. This role ensures installation sequence, alignment procedures, and inspection hold points are defined correctly and executed with discipline across all of these machinery systems.

This role works closely with structural, electrical, piping, and HVAC planning teams, quality assurance, and equipment manufacturer technical representatives to ensure propulsion and other ship's machinery installation happens at the correct stage of construction.

• Installation Sequencing

  Translate machinery arrangements, vendor installation/alignment manuals, and shaft line calculations into step-by-step installation work instructions.

  Define installation sequence relative to hull construction and erection, including what must happen before erection, after hull closure, or only once the vessel is afloat.

  Coordinate with structural, electrical, piping, and HVAC planning to ensure foundations and interfacing systems are ready at the right stage.

  Foundation & Alignment Procedures

  Specify foundation chocking, grouting, and bolt torque/sequence requirements.

  Define alignment procedures (sag/gap, laser/optical alignment, bearing load checks) and sequence shaft line installation relative to hull deflection, launch, and dock trial milestones.

  Define rigging, lifting, and handling plans for heavy machinery moves.

  Anchor & Ramp Systems Planning

  Define installation and sequencing requirements for anchor handling systems, including windlass/winch foundations, chain locker and hawsepipe arrangements, and anchor stowage and deployment components.

  Plan installation, fit-up, and functional test sequencing for bow/stern ramp systems and ramp lowering/actuation systems specific to LCU-type vessel programs, including hydraulic or mechanical actuation components, hinge and pin arrangements, and ramp locking/securing mechanisms.

  Coordinate ramp and anchor system installation with structural closure, coatings, and electrical/hydraulic system planning to ensure components are installed and tested at the correct build stage.

  Quality & Acceptance Criteria

  Specify inspection hold points and acceptance criteria (foundation flatness, alignment tolerance, bolt torque, NDT of critical welds) across propulsion, anchor, and ramp systems.

  Define functional test and operational checkout requirements for anchor handling and ramp lowering systems prior to sea trials.

  Coordinate with quality assurance and vendor technical representatives on inspection and acceptance.

  Ensure instructions…