Mission Operations Engineer (Program) at Saronic

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionSaronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing defense autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations for the Department of Defense (DoD) through autonomous and intelligent platforms.Job Summary: As a Mission Operations Engineer, you will be hands-on with the deployment and validation of our autonomous surface vessels where system integration is a primary focus. You will help ensure our systems meet rigorous technical and operational standards by conducting detailed operations and demonstrations, data analysis, and cross-functional coordination. You will be the face of and represent Saronic at external facing events and ensure complete vessel and mission readiness given the operational constraints for the exercise. You are able to meet deadlines and achieve desired outcomes as both an individual contributor and as a part of your team.ResponsibilitiesHow you support the missionDevelop deep understanding of vehicle HW and SW architecture, and how the vehicle operates as an integrated system.Lead planning and execution of structured field tests for vessel performance pertaining to autonomous navigation, perception, communications, and sensor integration, among other vessel functionalities.Collaborate with external entities to ensure vessel HW/SW integration is complete, inclusive of preliminary testing leading into end-to-end testing. Diagnose and perform real-time troubleshooting of autonomy, networking, and onboard hardware or software during test events.Implement solutions for testing, safety of vessel operations, and system robustness to maximize efficiency.Own data logging and telemetry monitoring systems; ensure data integrity for post-test analysis.Contribute to root cause analysis (RCCA) and issue triage workflows after field anomalies, with reporting to relevant review boards to eliminate repeat issues.Maintain autonomous vessels and test environments, including vessel and support craft operations, through the use of telemetry tools and onboard diagnostics to enhance reliability of all equipment and products.Ensure testing aligns with DoD performance, compliance, and safety standards when applicable.How you support the teamLead planning and execution of demonstration/exercises via integration of HW and SW to validate software and autonomy behaviors within an integrated system.Interface with autonomy, software, hardware, systems, and external-Saronic teams to translate requirements into field-validated test objectives for the demonstration/exercise at hand. Foster a collaborative and positive team environment, promoting open communication, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement.Develop test procedures, checklists, and safety protocols to support repeatable and safe vessel operation and overall mission execution while eliminating process waste.Create post-mission reports with detailed logs, data plots, issue summaries, and engineering feedback.Basic QualificationsBachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field1+ years of hands-on engineering experience (design teams and previous internships qualify)Preferred QualificationsStrong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills (HW/SW) and ability to work effectively in challenging field conditions such as off-shore in open waterExperience and knowledge of best practices in planning and execution of complex test operations involving autonomous systemsKnowledge of networking protocols and communication systems used in autonomous vesselsSystems engineering experience, ability to understand multi-disciplinary integrated systemsExperience with sensor integration such as EO/IR, radar, IMU, and others, as well as data processingExperience with integration and testing of multi-disciplinary integrated systemsFamiliarity with robotics, AI, or machine learning applicationsFamiliarity with software development in Rust, Python, or other languages and CLI environmentAbility to clone repositories, create/check-out branches, cherry‑pick commits, and check status across multiple branches while testing featuresFamiliarity with maritime operationsUnderstanding of DoD requirements and standards for autonomous systemsExperience working with embedded systems and real-time computingJob requires up to 75% travel.Physical DemandsAbility to certify as “fit for work” by demonstrating ability to swim and tread waterFrequently and repetitively, lift, push and carry up to 75 lbs.Will be exposed to marine environments, including sun, wind, rain, cold, and saltwater spray, often for extended periodsMust be able to operate in daylight, low-light, and night conditions using marine navigation systems and visual cuesAbility to perform physically demanding work for extended periods of time, up to 12 hours/day The ability to carry 20 lbs. up and down stairs BenefitsMedical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of servicesDental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision careSaronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependentsTime Off: Generous PTO and HolidaysParental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parentsCompetitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonusesRetirement Plan: 401(k) planStock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company’s successLife and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverageAdditional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office 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.