Mechanical Test Engineer

Job Overview

As a Mechanical Test Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, executing, and analyzing mechanical and structural tests on components and full systems for our autonomous surface vessels. You’ll play a critical role in validating designs, improving reliability, and ensuring our systems meet performance and environmental requirements for military operations.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute mechanical, structural, and environmental tests on ASV components and full systems (including vibration, shock, thermal, and fatigue tests)

• Develop test procedures, fixtures, instrumentation setups, and data acquisition systems

• Analyze test results to identify design weaknesses, material limitations, or integration issues

• Collaborate with design, electrical, and software teams to close feedback loops and iterate quickly

• Assist in field testing campaigns, including at-sea trials and system deployments

• Document test plans, reports, and technical findings for internal use and DoD compliance

• Support root-cause analysis and troubleshooting during development and production

Qualifications

• BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field

• 3+ years of experience in mechanical testing, validation, or systems integration (preferably in defense, marine, aerospace, or robotics industries)

• Strong understanding of structural mechanics, materials, failure modes, and environmental testing standards (e.g., MIL-STD-810)

• Experience with mechanical instrumentation, strain gauges, accelerometers, and data acquisition systems

• Proficiency in CAD (e.g., SolidWorks) and basic FEA tools for stress and modal analysis

• Hands-on skills with test setup, mechanical assembly, and fabrication tools

• Comfortable working in lab, dockside, or field environments

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• US Citizenship required; eligibility for DoD security clearance preferred

• Familiarity with marine or defense systems, including autonomous vehicles or maritime platforms

• Experience with data processing tools such as Python or MATLAB

• Knowledge of reliability testing methods (HALT/HASS), root cause analysis techniques, and design-for-testability

• Previous involvement in DoD test campaigns, test readiness reviews, or technical reporting

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 99% 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 company’s success

• Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage

• Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office

Saronic CCPA Notice for Candidates and California Employees

This role 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.