Manufacturing Automation Engineer

The role

The Manufacturing Automation Engineer identifies, develops, and implements automation solutions across shipyard production processes. This person owns automation projects from concept through production launch to improve throughput, quality, and safety.

What you will do

• Identify manufacturing operations suitable for automation
• Develop automation roadmaps and business cases
• Evaluate and recommend automation technologies
• Lead feasibility studies, cycle time analysis, and ROI assessments
• Partner with Design Engineering for manufacturability and automation
• Own automation projects from concept through equipment commissioning and production launch
• Manage automation suppliers and system integrators
• Coordinate equipment integration with facility infrastructure and MES systems
• Support pilot builds, process debugging, and ramp-to-rate activities
• Train teams on system functionality and maintenance

Required qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing automation, process engineering, or production equipment development
• Experience implementing automated manufacturing systems in high-volume, heavy fabrication, or advanced manufacturing environments
• Strong understanding of industrial automation systems including robotics, PLCs, HMIs, sensors, pneumatics, servo systems, and machine vision
• Experience with manufacturing process development, PFMEA, validation methodologies, and production launch activities
• Ability to interpret mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, and process flow documentation
• Experience managing external automation vendors and integrators
• Strong project management and cross-functional communication skills

Nice to have

• Experience with robotic welding, automated panel lines, plate cutting and profiling, or other large-structure automation in shipbuilding or heavy fabrication
• Experience with automated assembly, test automation, or robotic material handling systems
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and statistical process control methodologies
• Experience with controls programming, robot programming, or industrial networking
• Knowledge of MES integration, traceability systems, and smart factory/Industry 4.0 concepts
• Experience in shipbuilding, aerospace, automotive, robotics, electronics, or advanced manufacturing industries
• PMP, Lean Six Sigma, or automation-related certifications

Benefits

• Medical Insurance: Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
• Dental and Vision Insurance: Saronic pays 100% of the premium under the basic plan for employees and 80% for dependents
• Generous PTO and Holidays
• Paid maternity and paternity leave
• Competitive Salary with performance-based bonuses
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Equity options
• Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage
• Discounted pet insurance options including 24/7 Telehealth helpline
• Free lunch benefit
• Unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office

Before you apply

• Requires access to export-controlled information or items that require U.S. Person status (U.S. citizens, legal permanent residents, or certain protected classes of asylees and refugees)

About the company

Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing autonomy at sea, developing solutions that enhance maritime operations through autonomous and intelligent platforms.