Load & Dynamics Engineer

We are seeking a highly skilled Load & Dynamics Engineer to join our team working on cutting-edge autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) for the Department of Defense (DoD).

As a Load & Dynamics Engineer, you will be responsible for modeling and analyzing the forces acting on our autonomous vessels, ensuring they meet operational requirements for performance and safety. You will play a key role in simulating vehicle behavior, designing load response models, and ensuring hardware is validated for real-world environments. This is an interdisciplinary role requiring understanding of dynamics, structural integrity, and system performance.

Responsibilities:

• Analyze and resolve dynamic load-related problems affecting autonomous surface vessels, utilizing a combination of analysis, simulation, and field data.
• Develop finite element models and lumped element models to simulate vessel response under various load conditions (e.g., waves, wind, operational stress).
• Perform dynamic testing from start to finish, including pre-test analysis, sensor selection and installation, test execution, data analysis, signal processing, and model validation.
• Own system-level dynamic analysis and recommend hardware or design changes across engineering teams to enhance vessel performance under dynamic conditions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to assess and refine vehicle design for load-bearing capability, ensuring it meets stringent operational and defense standards.
• Conduct advanced simulations to predict the behavior of autonomous vessels in complex environments (e.g., turbulent water, harsh weather, operational maneuvers).
• Write and modify software to support dynamic modeling, simulation, and analysis in commercial and in-house software platforms.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or greater in Mathematics, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Structural Engineering, Naval Architecture, or a related field.
• 2+ years of professional experience with dynamics, particularly in structural or fluid dynamics, with a focus on vehicle response to external forces.
• Strong experience with dynamic simulation and load analysis using industry-standard tools.
• Proven ability to conduct testing and data analysis to assess load dynamics in complex systems.
• Proficiency with software tools like MATLAB, Python, and commercial finite element modeling tools (e.g., NASTRAN).
• Hands-on experience with both dynamic analysis and hardware testing.
• Experience in the modeling of fluid-structure interaction, particularly in maritime environments.
• Knowledge of naval architecture and experience with hull, propulsion, and stability dynamics.
• Expertise in vibration, shock, and fatigue testing as it applies to large-scale marine or autonomous systems.
• Familiarity with control systems and integration of autonomous technologies within physical vessel systems.
• Experience working in defense-related industries, particularly with DoD contractors or government programs.
• Advanced knowledge of structural integrity and failure mechanisms related to dynamic loading conditions.

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