Manufacturing Engineer – Piping & HVAC Detail Planning
Saronic · Brownsville, United States +1 · 9h ago
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 – Piping & HVAC Detail Planning translates piping and HVAC system designs into the detailed, shop-floor-ready work instructions that production teams use to fabricate, assemble, and install these systems aboard autonomous surface vessels. This role defines how piping and HVAC systems are broken into spools and subassemblies, how those pieces are built and installed in sequence, and how they ultimately come together into a complete, functioning ship.
Shipbuilding requires piping and HVAC systems to be planned around structural construction, access constraints, and the work of every other outfitting trade. The Manufacturing Engineer ensures fabrication and installation sequence, hanger and support design, and material handling are defined correctly the first time, minimizing rework and keeping systems installation on schedule.
This role works closely with design engineering, scheduling, quality assurance, and waterfront production teams to translate engineering intent into buildable, station-by-station work packages.
Responsibilities
Piping & HVAC Build Strategy
Break piping and HVAC systems into logical spools and subassemblies based on build strategy, weight handling limits, access, and outfitting sequence.
Define how subassemblies integrate into units, blocks, and the completed ship.
Determine fabrication sequence, hanger and support locations, and insulation/coating requirements.
Work Instruction Development
Develop detailed, step-by-step work instructions for fabrication, assembly, and installation crews.
Specify material handling needs and ensure instructions reflect traceability, welding/joining processes, and pressure testing requirements.
Incorporate applicable code and classification requirements (ABS, USCG, NAVSEA) into work packages.
Production Integration
Coordinate with design engineering, scheduling, quality, and waterfront production to ensure instructions reflect real yard capability.
Identify and resolve constructability issues, including interferences, out-of-sequence work, and access or lift constraints, before they reach the floor.
Support first-article builds and walk the work with mechanics and leads.
Continuous Improvement
Gather feedback from production and refine work instructions and standard work accordingly.
Track recurring fit-up or sequencing issues and work with design engineering to correct root causes.
Maintain documentation standards for piping and HVAC work packages across the program.
What Success Looks Like
Piping and HVAC spools and subassemblies fit and install correctly on the first attempt.
Fabrication and installation sequencing avoids interference with other trades.
Rework and schedule slippage from piping/HVAC installation are minimized.
Production teams can execute work instructions without needing to return to design for clarification.
Design engineering and production trust the detail plan as an accurate build reference.
Qualifications
Required
Hands-on experience in marine piping and/or HVAC trades (pipefitter, pipe welder, sheet metal mechanic, marine systems technician) or equivalent planning experience built on that trade background.
Understanding of pipe fabrication methods (bending, threading, welding, flanging) and HVAC ductwork fabrication and installation practices.
Working knowledge of how ships are built, including unit/block construction, erection sequence, and zone outfitting.
Ability to read and interpret isometric drawings, P&IDs, 3D models, and general arrangement drawings.
Strong written communication skills to produce clear, unambiguous work instructions.
Preferred
Experience in new construction shipbuilding; repair/overhaul experience also considered.
Familiarity with manufacturing engineering concepts such as process routers, bill of materials structuring, and standard work.
Experience with PLM/ERP systems such as Teamcenter or SAP.
Familiarity with ABS, USCG, or NAVSEA requirements as they apply to piping and HVAC systems.
Technical/trade school, associate's, or bachelor's degree in a relevant 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
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).
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.