Structural Build Engineer

Structural Build Engineer

We are seeking a talented and motivated Structural Build Engineer to support the design, analysis, and construction of autonomous surface vessels. This role will provide hands-on experience in ship structural design, main hull structure, foundations, and advanced autonomous technologies, driving impact in defense innovation.

As a Structural Build Engineer, you'll interface remotely with our design engineering teams in Austin while owning the hands-on oversight of structural fabrication, assembly, and issue resolution at the shipyard.

· Assist in the design, analysis, and fabrication of ship structural components including main hull structure, bulkheads, decks, foundations, framing, and cutfile generation for CNC plasma/waterjet cutting

· Collaborate with engineering teams to perform CAD modeling, analysis, and system optimization

· Operate as liaison between engineering, drafting, and production teams to resolve technical challenges during construction

· Identify and resolve non-conformances, lead root cause analysis, and drive resolution via IRBs (Issue Review Boards) and rework plans

· Lead and coordinate Engineering Change Orders (ECOs)—ensure traceability, communication, implementation, and verification

· Support the integration of autonomous navigation and control systems into vessel designs

· Participate in design reviews and provide technical input on system architecture and performance

· Support documentation including technical drawings, specifications, test procedures, and as-built records for internal use, regulatory bodies, and client presentations

· Manage CAD models to document as-built changes made during ship construction

· Oversee fabrication processes including welding, machining, assembly, and structural fit-up to ensure compliance with structural engineering specifications

· Perform dimensional inspections, structural surveys, and verification of welded joints and structural assemblies

· Bachelor's degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Ocean Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a related field

· Familiarity with maritime industry standards including ABS structural rules, AWS welding standards, and US Coast Guard regulations

· Strong fundamentals in structural engineering principles including statics, strength of materials, marine structures, and ship structural design

· Experience working in a shipyard, fabrication shop, or marine construction environment with focus on structural work

· Strong knowledge of 2D and 3D CAD software (e.g., Solid Works, NX, Rhino, AutoCAD)

· Experience with structural cutfile generation, nesting software, and CNC cutting processes

· Deep familiarity with interpreting structural drawings, GD&T, weld symbols, fabrication tolerances, and assembly procedures

· Understanding of welding processes, NDT methods, material properties, and marine-grade materials (aluminum, steel, composites)

· Experience with structural analysis, finite element analysis (FEA), or computational structural tools

· Knowledge of ship structural design principles including longitudinal strength, transverse framing, and foundation design

· Strong communication skills across engineers, welders, fabricators, quality teams, and leadership

· Comfortable working in an industrial shipyard environment with exposure to structural fabrication, welding, and heavy equipment

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Occasional standing and walking within the office
• Manual dexterity to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment
• Visual acuity to read screens, documents, and reports
• Occasional reaching, bending, or stooping to access file drawers, cabinets, or office supplies
• Lifting and carrying items up to 20 pounds occasionally (e.g., office supplies, packages)

• Medical Insurance:
  Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services
• Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
• Dental and Vision Insurance:
  Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care
• Saronic pays 100% of the premium under the basic plan for employees and 80% for dependents
• Time Off:
  Generous PTO and Holidays
• Parental Leave:
  Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents
• Competitive Salary:
  Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan with company match
• Stock Options:
  Equity options to give employees a stake in the company's success
• Life and Disability Insurance:
  Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage
• Pet Insurance:
  Discounted pet insurance options including 24/7 Telehealth helpline
• Additional Perks:
  Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office