Perception Hardware Engineer

About the role

We are seeking a Perception Hardware Engineer to join a team that integrates and develops the sensing and perception systems powering autonomy on our unmanned surface vessels. In this hands-on, high-impact role, you will integrate and develop perception components such as radar, camera, LiDAR, GPS, and other sensors to build robust situational awareness in maritime environments.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the technical expert on perception hardware and their integration on Saronic's products
• Collaborate in a multi-disciplinary team of expert engineers specializing in perception system design, analysis, build, and test
• Work closely with mechanical, optical, electrical, software, and manufacturing engineering teams to define requirements and validation methods for Saronic’s perception system
• Ensure technical requirements are satisfied and product deadlines are met
• Create and present detailed design reviews of perception hardware development and integration
• Develop and implement analysis and testing methods for new products and their subcomponents
• Grow and maintain vendor relationships for various perception sensors
• Design perception calibration fixtures and tooling to aid high-rate production
• Provide manufacturing support for troubleshooting and resolving perception hardware issues

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or greater in Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
• 2+ years designing complex mechanical and electrical systems
• Strong engineering fundamentals
• Hands-on design, analysis, and testing of sensors and structures
• Proficiency with 3D CAD software (Siemens NX/Unigraphics preferred)
• Experience with engineering trade studies, tolerance stack-up analysis, hand calculations, finite element analysis, and testing of integrated systems
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with maritime autonomy challenges such as dynamic environments, variable lighting, and low-contrast targets
• Proven success developing, integrating, and validating optical & sensor systems on maritime or aerospace platforms
• Experience with design and testing for shock and vibration environments
• Prior experience working on DoD programs or unmanned maritime systems
• A professional engineering license or similar professional certification

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
• 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

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)

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).