Marine Roboticist
Saronic Technologies
Austin, TX, USA
Posted on Jun 28, 2025
Saronic 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 Overview
We are seeking a Marine Roboticist at the intersection of hardware and software, responsible for the design, integration, and testing of our autonomous surface vessels (ASVs). You will work closely with cross-functional teams to develop robust cross-disciplinary solutions to marine engineering, electrical, and software problems that meet the unique challenges of maritime operations.
Responsibilities
- Accelerate traditional Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering ship design principles with modern software techniques, through the lens of marine autonomy
- Collaborate cross-functionally with hardware, electrical, and software engineers to cohesively design, operate, and maintain electro-mechanical systems
- Design, develop, and maintain software systems, using NixOS, for autonomous navigation, control, and communication of surface vessels
- Implement algorithms for controls and sensor fusion
- Conduct software testing and validation to ensure reliability and performance in real-world maritime environments
- Participate in code reviews and maintain high coding standards, ensuring the scalability and maintainability of software
- Troubleshoot and debug complex cross-disciplinary issues, providing timely resolutions
- Document designs, processes, and test results for compliance and knowledge sharing
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field
- 1+ years of experience in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, preferably hands-on experience
- Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software, preferably in Rhino3D, SolidWorks, and NX
- Strong understanding of the ship design spiral, including hull design, stability, resistance, powering, and machinery
- Familiarity with shipboard controls of subsystems, including fuel, lube oil, HVAC, cooling, preferably as it relates to marine autonomy
- 1+ years of experience in software development, preferably in autonomous systems or robotics
- Proficiency in programming languages such as C/C++ or Rust
- Strong understanding of algorithms, data structures, and software design patterns
- Experience with embedded Linux systems and embedded software development
- Knowledge of ship maneuvering and seakeeping is preferred
- Experience with low-level serial protocols (e.g., RS-232, CAN) is preferred
- Strong understanding of networking principles and protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, UDP) is preferred
- Knowledge of DoD standards and regulations related to software development is preferred
- Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced startup environment
- Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams
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
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)
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).