Manufacturing Engineer – Paint & Coatings Planning

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 Manufacturing Engineer – Paint & Coatings Planning defines the paint and coatings plan for each vessel program and builds the shipyard's long-term coatings capability through qualified outside labor and a developed internal workforce. This role determines what gets coated, when, with what systems, and in what sequence relative to fabrication and outfitting. Coatings protect the long-term integrity of every hull the yard builds, and a coatings failure is often invisible until the ship is in service and far more expensive to fix than to prevent. This role establishes qualification standards (SSPC-QP1, SSPC-QP3) for outsourced painting contractors and builds the path to bring SSPC-QP1 and NACE-certified coatings expertise in-house. This role works closely with structural, piping, electrical, and HVAC planning teams, quality assurance, and outside coatings contractors to build a credible, auditable coatings program from the ground up. RESPONSIBILITIES Coatings Planning Develop the overall paint and coatings plan for each vessel program, defining coating systems, surface preparation, and application methods by compartment and structure type. Sequence coating work against fabrication, outfitting, and erection so blasting and painting happen at the correct stage. Define environmental control requirements and surface prep standards (SSPC-SP grades, NACE standards), and establish inspection hold points and acceptance criteria. Outsourced Contractor Qualification Establish and maintain standards for qualifying outsourced coatings contractors, requiring SSPC-QP1 certification for field application and SSPC-QP3 for shop/fabrication-coating application. Build the evaluation, audit, and onboarding process for the approved vendor base. Manage the qualification lifecycle, including renewals, re-audits, and corrective action. Internal Capability Development Define and build the path to develop internal coatings capability, including the training and certification roadmap for personnel to achieve SSPC-QP1 and NACE coatings inspector credentials. Identify internal candidates and structure on-the-job training and mentorship. Coordinate external training and exam requirements toward a long-term internally qualified workforce. Documentation & Continuous Improvement Maintain documentation, qualification records, and audit trail for classification/regulatory review. Refine the coatings plan and qualification program based on floor performance and inspection results. Identify and resolve sequencing conflicts between coatings work and other trades. What Success Looks Like Coating systems are applied at the correct build stage without rework from later welding or fit-up. Outsourced contractors consistently meet SSPC-QP1/QP3 qualification standards. Internal coatings capability grows steadily toward SSPC-QP1 and NACE certification. Coating failures and corrosion issues are rare and caught early through inspection. Coatings documentation and records support classification and regulatory review without gaps. QUALIFICATIONS Hands-on experience in marine or industrial coatings (applicator, inspector, coatings/corrosion engineer) or equivalent planning experience built on that trade background. Understanding of coating systems and surface prep standards (SSPC-SP grades, NACE standards) and application methods. Working knowledge of SSPC-QP1 and SSPC-QP3 contractor certification standards. Understanding of what it takes for an individual to become SSPC-QP1 or NACE coatings inspector certified. Strong written communication skills to produce clear coatings specifications and audit documentation. Preferred Experience in new construction shipbuilding; industrial, marine repair, or heavy fabrication coatings experience also considered. NACE or SSPC certification, or active pursuit of one. Experience building contractor qualification, audit, and vendor management processes. Familiarity with ABS, USCG, or NAVSEA coatings requirements and documentation expectations. Technical/trade school, associate's, or bachelor's degree in coatings technology, materials/corrosion engineering, or a related field. 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.