About the role
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 Heavy Lift Engineer is responsible for engineering the safe, reliable, and efficient movement of large ship blocks, modules, and heavy equipment throughout the shipyard using Self-Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMTs) and other transfer systems. The role also includes rigging engineering required to safely lift, rotate, and position major assemblies during transport and erection operations. This position ensures that heavy component movement is fully integrated into shipyard design and production planning. The engineer will develop transfer strategies, rigging concepts, lifting studies, and transport plans to support efficient block movement while preventing production bottlenecks. Early involvement in yard planning ensures that yard layouts, pavement structures, heavy lift equipment, transport corridors, and rigging strategies are designed to support safe and reliable operations at scale. Responsibilities: Heavy Transport & Transfer Engineering Develop engineering plans for transporting ship blocks, modules, and heavy equipment across the shipyard using SPMTs and related transfer systems. Calculate load distribution, axle configurations, ground pressures, and stability requirements for heavy transports. Determine safe transport configurations for oversized, asymmetric, or high center-of-gravity loads. Rigging Engineering Develop rigging concepts and lifting configurations for ship blocks, large modules, and heavy equipment. Perform rigging calculations including sling loads, lift point forces, center-of-gravity analysis, and load factors. Design lifting frames, spreader bars, rigging arrangements, and lifting interfaces where required. Support development of lift plans for cranes, SPMT pick operations, and block erection activities. Yard Transfer Strategy Define standard transport methods for block movement between fabrication, assembly, and erection areas. Establish transport routes, staging strategies, and buffer areas that support efficient production flow. Ensure heavy transport operations integrate with crane operations, erection sequencing, and waterfront activities. Yard Infrastructure Planning Provide engineering input into yard layout to ensure transport corridors support heavy load movement. Define pavement load requirements, turning radii, slopes, and surface tolerances required for SPMT operations. Coordinate with civil and structural engineers on pavement design and structural loading requirements. Lift & Transport Integration Coordinate transport engineering with crane lifts, rigging systems, and erection strategies. Develop integrated lift-and-transfer plans for large modules and ship blocks. Validate that lifting interfaces and transport frames align with ship structural design. Equipment & System Integration Support selection and specification of SPMTs and other heavy transport systems. Support the selection and specification of Cranes and other heavy lifting systems. Evaluate alternative transfer methods including skidding systems, rails, cranes, or hybrid solutions. Define operational limits, redundancy requirements, and maintenance considerations. Production Integration Work closely with build strategy to ensure block sizes, weights, and geometry align with lifting and transport capabilities. Identify potential logistics bottlenecks during early design phases. Support build strategy development and erection sequencing. Safety & Risk Management Identify hazards associated with heavy transport and rigging operations. Develop safe work procedures and engineered controls for large load movements. Support incident investigations and continuous improvement of heavy lift practices. Qualifications: Required Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or related field. Experience with heavy transport, rigging engineering, or heavy lift engineering planning. Strong understanding of structural load paths, load distribution, and lifting mechanics. Ability to develop engineering plans for large component lifting and transport. Experience with SPMT operations and heavy modular transport systems. Familiarity with rigging standards and lift planning practices. Preferred Direct Shipyard rigging and heavy lift engineering experience. Experience supporting modular construction or large assembly operations. Experience in transferring commercial and US government vessels from land level facilities to drydock. 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 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.