Commissioning Engineer – Propulsion, Electrical, & Mechanical Systems

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.

Position Overview

Saronic is seeking a Commissioning Engineer to assist the operation of our mid-sized autonomous surface vessel, Marauder. You will ensure that all marine systems including, but not limited to: main propulsion system, auxiliary machinery, electrical generation and distribution systems, ventilation systems, fuel oil system, lubrication systems, cooling systems, and all associated environmental equipment are commissioned properly, are tested, and are in operating condition. The ideal candidate will possess strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities. Have a strong grasp on vessel engineering systems with the ability to work independently on issues. A steadfast commitment to safety and adherence to maritime regulations is essential for ensuring the highest standards in vessel operations.

Responsibilities

• Support all marine engineering operations across vessels while in production and initial testing prior to delivery
• Troubleshoot diesel engines, water jets, and auxiliary systems
• Provide direct guidance and technical oversight to Chief Engineers and vessel crews
• Oversee commissioning, testing, and acceptance of vessel systems at shipyard
• Ensure all necessary maintenance is completed on vessel machinery
• Work a rotating on-call schedule to support vessels while underway and respond to operational issues
• Manage and oversee inventory and ordering of spare parts
• Lead the creation and standardization of planned maintenance schedules
• Assist in the shipboard execution of system commissioning and operational support
• Develop engineering processes and procedures for vessels prior to and post launch
• Coordinate with shipyard, vendors, and internal teams during construction and refit periods
• Ensure compliance with USCG, STCW, and all applicable regulatory requirements
• Support troubleshooting and resolution of complex engineering issues across vessels

Required Qualifications

• Senior-level marine engineering experience (Chief Engineer or equivalent strongly preferred; license not required)
• Experience with Caterpillar, Cummins, Wärtsilä, Mitsubishi or similar
• Waterjet propulsion experience
• Independent troubleshooting ability
• OEM certification or ability to obtain
• Experience with newbuild commissioning, vessel operations and maintenance
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Pass background check and USCG/DOT drug testing prior to onboarding
• Security clearance and eligibility required

Desired Qualifications

• Familiar with jet-drive propulsion systems
• Experience with autonomous or unmanned systems
• Prior experience working with the DoD or other government agencies

Physical Demands

• Frequently and repetitively, lift, push and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Will be exposed to marine environments, including sun, wind, rain, cold, and saltwater spray, often for extended periods
• Must be able to operate in daylight, low-light, and night conditions using marine navigation systems and visual cues
• Ability to perform physically demanding work i.e. stoop, lay, bend, reach, squat, kneel, crouch, twist and crawl for extended periods of time including up to 12 hours/day
• Climb and maintain balance on ladders, platforms, or other high structures
• Ability to stand and walk for up to 10 hours a day, including over varied and uneven terrain
• Climb and maintain balance on ladders, scaffolding or other high structures
• Ability to work in a hot and humid environment and follow safe practices to stay hydrated
• Hearing ability sufficient to detect alarms, verbal instructions, and workplace hazards in a high-noise environment.
• Must be able to work in a shipyard environment, including indoor fabrication shops, onboard vessels under construction, and outdoor areas exposed to changing weather conditions.
• Wear Personal Protective Equipment, including but not limited to: safety glasses, safety shoes, hard hat and adhering to prescribed safety rules and guidelines

Benefits

• Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services
• Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care
• Saronic pays 100% of the premium 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
• 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

If this role is based in the United States, it requires access to export-controlled information or items that require “U.S. Person” status. As defined by U.S. law, individuals who are any one of the following are considered to be a “U.S. Person”: (1) U.S. citizens, (2) legal permanent residents (a.k.a. green card holders), and (3) certain protected classes of asylees and refugees, as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Saronic does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other reason prohibited by law in provision of employment opportunities and benefits. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.