Manufacturing Automation Engineer

The posting, as Saronic wrote it

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

The Manufacturing Automation Engineer is responsible for identifying, developing, and implementing automation solutions across Port Alpha's shipyard production processes — plate cutting and profiling, panel and sub-assembly fabrication, robotic welding, block assembly, blast and paint, outfitting, material handling, and test — to improve throughput, quality, repeatability, safety, and cost efficiency. This role serves as the primary technical owner for automation projects from concept through production launch, partnering closely with Design Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Supply Chain teams.

The role sits within Shipyard Optimization (Robotics & Autonomous Build) and works hand in hand with Saronic's central automation and software teams so that Port Alpha's automation architecture, controls standards, and MES integration stay aligned with the company-wide approach while fitting the realities of large-structure steel shipbuilding.

The ideal candidate combines strong manufacturing process knowledge with automation expertise and plays a critical role in designing products and processes that are optimized for scalable automated production. Following implementation and production stabilization, ownership transitions to Port Alpha Manufacturing Engineering for sustaining support and continuous improvement.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Automation Strategy & Process Development

• Identify manufacturing operations and workflows suitable for automation based on safety, quality, throughput, ergonomic, and cost considerations.
• Develop automation roadmaps and business cases to support production scaling objectives, feeding the Port Alpha Production Systems Roadmap.
• Evaluate and recommend automation technologies including robotics, machine vision, PLC-controlled systems, automated assembly and welding equipment, material handling systems, and test automation.
• Lead feasibility studies, cycle time analysis, and ROI assessments for proposed automation initiatives.

Cross-Functional Product & Process Design

• Partner with Design Engineering during product development to ensure vessels and their structures are designed for manufacturability and automation (DFMA/DFA).
• Provide design feedback on tolerances, joining methods, part presentation, fixturing, assembly sequence, and inspection requirements to enable robust automated manufacturing processes.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering and Shipyard Optimization to define scalable production architectures and standardized automation strategies that fit the facility layout and flow.

Automation Project Ownership

• Own automation projects from concept development through equipment commissioning and production launch.
• Define equipmen

[…]
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 https://saronic-assets-public.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/Saronic%20CCPA%20Notice%20for%20Candidates%20and%20California%20Employees.pdf

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) https://www.govinfo.gov/link/uscode/8/1324b.

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.