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Saronic Technologies is developing autonomous surface vessels for maritime defense. This Manufacturing Engineer role is responsible for defining complex, high-precision installation processes for main propulsion equipment, reduction gears, shafting, bearings, and drivetrain components aboard autonomous surface vessels. The role also plans installation of critical ship's machinery systems including anchor handling systems, ramp installation, and ramp lowering/actuation systems specific to LCU-type vessel programs.
The engineer translates design intent and manufacturer requirements into sequenced, repeatable installation processes that production teams execute with precision and safety. Propulsion and machinery installation requires far less tolerance for error than general outfitting—misalignment, incorrect foundation setting, or improper ramp/anchor system installation can cause vibration, equipment failure, or mission-critical system failure once the vessel is underway or beaching.
Key responsibilities include:
**Installation Sequencing:** Translate machinery arrangements, vendor installation/alignment manuals, and shaft line calculations into step-by-step work instructions. Define installation sequence relative to hull construction and erection (before erection, after hull closure, or when afloat). Coordinate with structural, electrical, piping, and HVAC planning to ensure foundations and interfacing systems are ready at the correct stage.
**Foundation & Alignment Procedures:** Specify foundation chocking, grouting, and bolt torque/sequence requirements. Define alignment procedures (sag/gap, laser/optical alignment, bearing load checks) and sequence shaft line installation relative to hull deflection, launch, and dock trial milestones. Define rigging, lifting, and handling plans for heavy machinery moves.
**Anchor & Ramp Systems Planning:** Define installation and sequencing for anchor handling systems, including windlass/winch foundations, chain locker and hawsepipe arrangements, and anchor stowage/deployment. Plan installation, fit-up, and functional test sequencing for bow/stern ramp systems and ramp lowering/actuation systems (hydraulic or mechanical), including hinge/pin arrangements and locking mechanisms. Coordinate with structural closure, coatings, and electrical/hydraulic system planning.
**Quality & Acceptance Criteria:** Specify inspection hold points and acceptance criteria (foundation flatness, alignment tolerance, bolt torque, NDT of critical welds). Define functional test and operational checkout requirements for anchor handling and ramp systems prior to sea trials. Coordinate with quality assurance and vendor technical representatives. Ensure instructions reflect ABS, USCG, NAVSEA requirements, vendor warranty terms, and documentation needs through sea trials.
**Production Support & Continuous Improvement:** Support first-article installations and witness alignment checks, functional tests, and sea trials. Refine installation procedures based on floor feedback, vendor guidance, and lessons learned. Maintain installation and alignment documentation standards.
Success is measured by propulsion and machinery installations meeting alignment and tolerance requirements on the first attempt, anchor handling and ramp systems functioning correctly on first functional test, shaft line alignment remaining valid through launch and trials, installation sequence avoiding rework, inspection hold points catching issues early, and production/quality/vendor teams trusting the installation plan as an accurate reference.
**Requirements:**
Required:
- Hands-on experience with marine propulsion/machinery (machinist, millwright, marine engineer, machinery installation technician) or equivalent planning experience built on that trade background
- Understanding of main propulsion equipment, reduction gears, shaft lines, couplings, bearings, and stern tube/seal arrangements
- Hands-on familiarity with alignment methods (optical, laser, sag-and-gap) and chocking/grouting and torque/tensioning procedures
- Ability to read machinery arrangements, vendor manuals, shaft calculations, and 3D models
- Strong written communication skills to produce clear, unambiguous work instructions with no ambiguity on sequence or tolerance
Preferred:
- Experience planning or installing anchor handling systems and ramp/ramp lowering systems, ideally on LCU or similar beaching/landing craft vessel programs
- Experience with main propulsion installation and alignment on new construction vessels; marine repair, overhaul, or industrial alignment experience also considered
- Experience with PLM/ERP systems and alignment/metrology data tools
- Familiarity with ABS, USCG, NAVSEA requirements as they apply to propulsion, anchor, ramp, and other ship's machinery installation
- Familiarity with vendor technical and warranty documentation requirements
- Technical/trade school, associate's, or bachelor's degree in a relevant field (marine engineering technology, mechanical engineering technology, naval architecture)
