Forward Deployed Hardware Engineer

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. JOB OVERVIEW We are seeking a versatile Forward Deployed Hardware Engineer to join our technical team. You will have a strong mechanical and electrical background and be responsible for bringing our technology from the lab to the fleet. This is not a traditional engineering role. You will be responsible for deploying our systems into the real world, directly supporting maritime missions. You will integrate cutting-edge mechanical and electrical payloads, debug complex system-level problems, and iterate hardware designs in the field to ensure success. This is a highly hands-on and field-oriented role with time split between the lab, fabrication spaces, and the waterfront. RESPONSIBILITIES - Serve as a multidisciplinary field engineer responsible for mechanical and electrical integration of novel systems and payloads onto our Autonomous Service Vessels (ASVs) and maritime platforms - Lead rapid prototyping efforts to support field experimentation and platform evolution - Perform system bring-up, integration, and troubleshooting of power, networking, sensors, and compute subsystems - Own dockside and sea trials - prepare vessels, install new hardware packages, and perform system validation in operationally relevant environments - Drive design-for-assembly and design-for-deployment feedback into hardware product development - Work closely with cross-functional teams, including Mechanical, Electrical, Software, and Autonomy Engineers, to evolve and harden system designs - Interface with suppliers and fabrication shops to support fast turnarounds of custom components and harnesses - Contribute to documentation and training to support the scaling of deployment and manufacturing QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field. Master's degree is a plus - 3+ years of experience working on integrated electromechanical systems, preferably in fielded or mission-critical environments - Hands-on expertise in Mechanical assembly and fabrication (CNC, sheet metal, 3D printing, etc.) - Hands-on expertise in Electrical integration (power systems, cabling, connectors, PCB bring-up) - Hands-on expertise in rapid prototyping and system-level debugging - Comfort working with tools such as CAD (SolidWorks, NX, or similar), basic electrical test equipment (multimeters, oscilloscopes), and field integration setups - Experience working with a Linux-based operating system - Understanding of networking protocols and distributed systems, including TCP/IP, UDP, and message-passing frameworks - Willingness to work in dynamic, hands-on environments, including on and near the water - Strong sense of ownership and bias for action - You thrive in real-world environments, responsible for solving open-ended problems - Experience working with autonomous systems, drones, or other robotic platforms is preferred - Familiarity with maritime environments or naval platforms is preferred - Ability to write basic software tools (e.g., Python, shell scripts) for hardware bring-up or test automation is preferred - Exposure to ruggedized or IP-rated hardware design is preferred - Experience in systems integration or test engineering is preferred 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