Structures Test Engineer

Department: Engineering

Location: Austin, TX

Employment Type: FullTime

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 highly motivated Structures Test Engineer to join our advanced maritime mechanical team supporting the development and deployment of autonomous surfacevessels (ASVs) for Department of Defense applications. This 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. 

This is a hands-on, multidisciplinary engineering role that supports a wide range of structural development efforts—from component testing to full-scale system validation—critical to enabling autonomy in naval operations. 

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 

Qualifications

• 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) 

• Experience with: 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

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

Saronic CCPA Notice for Candidates and California Employees

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).

Saronic does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other reason prohibited by law in provision of employment opportunities and benefits. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.