Staff Forward Deployed Engineer at Saronic

Austin, Texas, United States

Apply Now

Not SpecifiedCompensation

Senior (5 to 8 years), Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Maritime, Autonomous SystemsIndustries

Requirements

7+ years of experience developing software for autonomous or robotic systems, with demonstrated ownership of complex, mission-critical features across multiple deployments
Advanced proficiency in modern systems programming languages such as C++, Rust, and Python, with a focus on architecting high-performance, maintainable software for autonomy applications
Deep expertise in robotics, autonomy, and embedded systems, particularly within high-consequence domains such as maritime, aerospace, or defense
Strong command of networking and distributed systems, including experience architecting reliable communication frameworks using TCP/IP, UDP, DDS, or ROS 2
Extensive hands-on experience with perception systems, integrating and calibrating sensors like cameras, radar, GPS, and IMUs for real-time autonomous decision-making
Proven ability to debug and resolve highly complex, cross-domain issues, from embedded firmware to autonomy stack behavior under operational conditions
Track record of delivering autonomy software for real-world robotic platforms, especially in uncertain, dynamic, and communication-constrained environments such as open-ocean deployments
Expertise in autonomous navigation concepts, including motion planning, behavior trees, hybrid autonomy, and control theory, with the ability to evaluate and improve algorithms at the systems level

Responsibilities

Architect and lead the development of autonomy, networking, and mission execution software, setting technical direction and ensuring performance and reliability in real-world maritime operations
Drive field testing campaigns, overseeing the deployment of ASV systems, leading root cause analysis of autonomy, perception, and control issues, and guiding cross-functional resolution strategies
Lead performance analysis efforts, using data from fielded systems to inform architecture decisions and prioritize software improvements with the highest operational impact
Own the integration of new autonomy capabilities, ensuring system-wide compatibility and defining interfaces between software, sensing, and hardware subsystems
Serve as a technical liaison with operators and mission stakeholders, translating operational feedback into actionable technical requirements and shaping roadmap priorities
Guide the resolution of complex field issues, drawing from expertise across software, hardware, and networking layers to improve system robustness and deployment readiness
Mentor and influence engineering teams, facilitating cross-functional collaboration across autonomy, hardware, and field operations to align technical execution with product goals
Define and codify engineering best practices, creating reusable tools, documentation, and scalable workflows to support long-term system maintainability and operational reliability

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Autonomy AlgorithmsNetworkingSoftware ArchitectureSensor IntegrationControl LogicField TestingRoot Cause AnalysisPerformance AnalysisHardware IntegrationPerception SystemsMission ExecutionData Analysis

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What experience level is required for this Staff Forward Deployed Engineer role?

Candidates need 7+ years of experience developing software for autonomous or robotic systems, with demonstrated ownership of complex, mission-critical features across multiple deployments.

What programming languages are required for this position?

Advanced proficiency is required in modern systems programming languages such as C++, Rust, and Python, with a focus on architecting high-performance, maintainable software for autonomy applications.

Is this a remote position, or is there a location requirement?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What is the salary or compensation for this role?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What makes a strong candidate for this Staff Forward Deployed Engineer position?

A strong candidate has 7+ years in autonomous or robotic systems software, advanced skills in C++, Rust, and Python, and experience leading deployments, field testing, and cross-functional problem-solving in real-world operations.

Saronic

Develops advanced autonomous surface vessels

About Saronic

Saronic Technologies develops Autonomous Surface Vessels (ASVs) that enhance the capabilities of naval and maritime forces. These vessels utilize adaptive path planning, passive sensors, and advanced algorithms, along with edge computing, to effectively identify and track targets. They are designed to operate in challenging environments, using resilient multichannel communications to support both manned and unmanned operations. Saronic Technologies differentiates itself by focusing on military and defense clients, aiming to improve situational awareness, extend operational reach, and enhance survivability during maritime missions. The company's goal is to provide solutions that integrate seamlessly with existing operational strategies or support new maritime tactics, generating revenue through the sale of ASVs and related customization services.

Austin, TexasHeadquarters

2022Year Founded

$223.7MTotal Funding

SERIES_BCompany Stage

DefenseIndustries

201-500Employees

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Paid Vacation

Paid Sick Leave

Parental Leave

401(k) Retirement Plan

Stock Options

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

Risks

Increased competition from other defense tech startups threatens Saronic's market share.

Rapid AI advancements may require costly updates to maintain competitive ASV systems.

Geopolitical tensions could hinder international collaborations and foreign government sales.

Differentiation

Saronic integrates AI, hardware, and software into scalable, fully integrated maritime platforms.

Their ASVs feature adaptive path planning and advanced algorithms for effective target tracking.

Saronic's multichannel communications enable seamless manned-unmanned teaming in contested environments.

Upsides

Raised $175M in Series B funding, reaching a $1 billion valuation in 2024.

Growing demand for autonomous vessels in defense and commercial sectors boosts market potential.

AI integration in ASVs enhances decision-making and operational efficiency for maritime missions.

Land your dream remote job 3x faster with AI

Try Jobo Free