Manufacturing Engineer - Test Planner

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 Test Planner defines and sequences all forms of testing required to bring a vessel from fabrication through commissioning and delivery, covering structural/tank testing, piping system testing, electrical testing, machinery and propulsion trials, and vessel-level dock and sea trials. This role establishes the master test plan that ties every discipline's test requirements into a single, logical sequence tied to the build schedule. Shipbuilding test programs span dozens of interdependent test types across structural, piping, electrical, HVAC, machinery, and outfitting systems, each with its own prerequisites, acceptance criteria, and regulatory requirements. The Test Planner ensures these tests happen in the right order, at the right stage of construction, without forcing rework or blocking downstream trades, and draws on experience from other shipyard programs to anticipate sequencing issues before they surface. This role works closely with design engineering, production engineering, quality assurance, classification society surveyors, and the Master Planner to build a test program the yard can execute reliably across multiple ship programs. RESPONSIBILITIES Test Program Development - Establish the master test plan defining every test required from first fabrication through sea trials and delivery. - Define test sequence, prerequisites, and dependencies across structural, piping, electrical, HVAC, machinery, and outfitting disciplines. - Translate classification society and regulatory test requirements (ABS, USCG, NAVSEA) into an executable test schedule. Discipline Test Planning - Define tank and compartment testing requirements (hydrostatic, hydropneumatic, air/hose testing) and their sequence relative to structural closure and coatings. - Define piping system test requirements (hydrostatic, pneumatic, flushing) and electrical test requirements (continuity, megger, hi-pot, functional checks) at the correct build stage. - Define machinery and propulsion test requirements, including dock trials, harbor trials, and sea trials, in coordination with propulsion and machinery installation planning. Schedule Integration - Integrate the test plan with the integrated master schedule, working with the Master Planner to protect test windows and sequence dependencies. - Identify where test requirements constrain or are constrained by construction sequence, coatings, or outfitting completion. - Flag schedule risk associated with test readiness and escalate conflicts before they affect milestone dates. Cross-Program Knowledge Application - Apply lessons learned and test sequencing practices from other shipyard programs to anticipate issues before they occur at Saronic. - Identify where test program structure used on prior programs can be adapted to Saronic's vessel designs and build strategy. - Benchmark test program efficiency and rigor against practices observed at other shipyards. Execution Support & Continuous Improvement - Support test execution, working with production, quality, and classification surveyors to resolve test failures and retest requirements. - Maintain test documentation, acceptance records, and the traceability required for classification and regulatory review. - Refine the test plan and sequencing standards based on execution results and lessons learned across programs. WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE - Tests happen in the correct sequence, without rework caused by testing too early or too late in the build. - Test failures are rare, and when they occur, root cause and retest paths are clearly defined. - The test schedule integrates cleanly with the master schedule without becoming a hidden source of schedule risk. - Classification society and regulatory test requirements are met without last-minute scrambles. - Production, quality, and program leadership trust the test plan as an accurate, executable reference across every ship program. QUALIFICATIONS Required - Experience developing or executing test plans and test sequencing on at least one other shipyard or large-scale marine/industrial construction program. - Strong understanding of how structural, piping, electrical, HVAC, and machinery test requirements interact with overall build sequence. - Ability to read and interpret test procedures, acceptance criteria, and classification society test requirements. - Strong organizational and scheduling skills, with the ability to manage a large number of interdependent test requirements across multiple disciplines. - Strong written and verbal communication skills to coordinate test requirements across design, production, and quality teams. Preferred - Experience with multiple vessel classes or multiple shipyard programs, bringing outside perspective on test program structure and sequencing. - Familiarity with ABS, USCG, or NAVSEA test and trials requirements. - Experience with dock trials, harbor trials, or sea trials planning and execution. - Experience with PLM/ERP or test management software used to track test status and documentation. - Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering field (mechanical, electrical, naval architecture, or similar), or equivalent hands-on test planning experience. 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) 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 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.