Structures Test Engineer

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated Structures Test Engineer to join our advanced maritime mechanical team supporting the development and deployment of autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) for Department of Defense applications. This hands-on, multidisciplinary engineering role involves designing, building, and testing complex mechanical structures and fluid systems that support full-scale and sub-scale vessel test campaigns in dynamic, real-world environments.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute test stand concepts, fabrication drawings, wiring schematics, and instrumentation lists tailored to maritime platforms
• Design, analyze, and validate structural systems, fluid systems, and dynamic mechanisms for ASV subsystems
• Supervise the build, integration, and commissioning of structural test setups, including mechanical fabrication and instrumentation
• Lead and execute rigorous mechanical and structural testing of marine components and systems, often in outdoor, field-based conditions
• Collaborate with naval architects, autonomy engineers, and control systems teams to ensure test fidelity and relevance to mission performance
• Maintain meticulous records of test data, design changes, and test reports to support traceability for DoD certification and reporting

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or greater in Mechanical Engineering, Structural Engineering or a related discipline
• 2+ years of experience designing and operating structural test equipment
• Hands-on design, analysis, and testing of mechanical structures or systems
• Professional experience with structural FEA or mechanical testing
• Proficiency with 3D CAD software (Siemens NX/Unigraphics preferred)

Skills

• Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
• Finite Element Analysis tools (ANSYS, NASTRAN, or equivalent)
• Design of large steel or aluminum weldments
• High-pressure fluid system design
• Mechanical assembly and fabrication techniques

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
• 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

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).