Mechanical Build Engineer

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.

We are seeking a talented and motivated Mechanical Build Engineer to support the design, integration, and commissioning of main propulsion systems and associated machinery for autonomous surface vessels. This role will provide hands‑on experience in marine propulsion machinery, shafting systems, fuel systems, generator sets, seawater systems, and advanced autonomous technologies, driving impact in defense innovation. As a Mechanical Build Engineer, you’ll interface remotely with our design engineering teams in Austin while owning the hands‑on oversight of main engine installation, shaft alignment, propulsion integration, fuel systems, gensets, cooling systems, and issue resolution at the shipyard.

• Assist in the design, analysis, and integration of main propulsion systems, fuel systems, seawater cooling systems, and generator sets including main engines, transmissions, shafting, propellers, waterjets, steering systems, fuel supply/return, day tanks, genset packages, seawater intakes, heat exchangers, and exhaust systems
• 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 installation, alignment, and commissioning of main engines, shafting systems, stern tubes, propellers, rudders, steering gear, and generator sets
• Lead precision shaft alignment procedures using laser alignment equipment and ensure compliance with manufacturer and classification society tolerances
• Perform functional testing and commissioning including engine run‑ups, genset load testing, fuel system pressure tests, cooling system verification, and alignment checks

• Bachelor's degree in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Naval Architecture, Ocean Engineering, or a related field
• Familiarity with maritime industry standards including ABS machinery rules, ABYC fuel system standards, engine manufacturer specifications, and US Coast Guard engineering regulations
• Strong fundamentals in mechanical engineering principles including propulsion systems, shaft alignment, fuel systems, cooling systems, generator sets, and marine machinery
• Experience working in a shipyard, aboard ships, or with marine propulsion systems, fuel systems, gensets, and seawater cooling systems
• Strong knowledge of 2D and 3D CAD software (e.g., Solid Works, AutoCAD, Rhino, NX)
• Experience with shaft alignment procedures, laser alignment equipment, and propulsion system installation
• Deep familiarity with interpreting P&IDs, machinery arrangement plans, fuel system diagrams, cooling system schematics, and shaft alignment specifications
• Understanding of diesel and alternative propulsion systems, fuel delivery and filtration, seawater cooling systems, heat exchangers, and exhaust systems
• Knowledge of generator set sizing, prime and standby power calculations, paralleling, load sharing, and genset control systems
• Experience with fuel system design including tank sizing, piping sizing, pressure calculations, and fuel filtration/polishing requirements
• Understanding of seawater system design including intake sizing, strainer selection, corrosion protection, and marine growth prevention
• Strong communication…