Manufacturing Engineer Intern - Autonomous Vessels

Saronic Technologies is a leader in maritime autonomy, developing state-of-the-art autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) and intelligent software platforms for the defense technology sector.

We are seeking a Manufacturing Engineer Intern to join our team in Austin, TX for Summer 2027. Working directly alongside our manufacturing engineering team, you will tackle project-based assignments that optimize how we build, assemble, and deliver autonomous ships. In this hands-on role at the intersection of robotics, defense, and manufacturing innovation, you will lead process improvements, conduct production time studies, design assembly fixtures, and enhance shop floor operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Process Improvement & Lean Manufacturing: Support hands-on projects aimed at improving assembly efficiency, shop floor organization, and 5S/lean production workflows.
• Time Studies & Workflow Analysis: Conduct time studies and line-balancing analyses to identify production bottlenecks and optimize throughput.
• Tooling & Fixture Design: Design and implement light assembly tooling, jigs, and fixtures to assist technicians during vehicle fabrication and component integration.
• Data & Documentation Systems: Analyze manufacturing execution data, update Work Instructions (WIs), build standard operating procedures (SOPs), and improve production documentation.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner directly with mechanical design, operations, quality, and shop floor fabrication teams to resolve manufacturing challenges.

Requirements

Academic Status & Majors

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Must be available for full-time (40 hrs/week) in-office work at Saronic HQ in Austin, TX from May through August 2027.

Core Competencies & Mindset

• Strong interest in hands-on manufacturing, mechanical assembly, process design, and hardware development.
• Solid analytical, problem-solving, and verbal/written communication skills.
• Eagerness to take initiative, collaborate across disciplines, and execute projects in a fast-paced environment.

Export Control / Security Requirement

• U.S. Person Status Required: Due to export control regulations (ITAR/EAR), candidates must be a "U.S. Person" (U.S. Citizen, Legal Permanent Resident / Green Card Holder, or protected refugee/asylee).

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior internship, co-op, or academic project experience in a hands-on manufacturing, machine shop, or production assembly environment.
• Exposure to 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, Fusion 360) for tool/fixture design.
• Basic understanding of lean manufacturing methodologies, Value Stream Mapping (VSM), or statistical process control (SPC).

Physical Demands

• Prolonged periods of desk/computer work alongside active standing and walking across the manufacturing shop floor.
• Manual dexterity to operate computers, light tools, and assembly equipment.
• Ability to lift and carry items up to 20 pounds occasionally.