Job Overview

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.

Responsibilities
• 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

Qualifications
• 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., SolidWorks, 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

Physical Demands

• 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)

Benefits

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