Diesel Technician, Instructor

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 SummarySaronic is seeking a Diesel Technician Instructor to design, develop, and deliver advanced technical training programs focused on diesel propulsion systems supporting our autonomous surface vessels (ASVs). This role blends curriculum development, hands-on maintenance training, and field-based technical support to ensure mission readiness across internal teams, contracted customers, and DoD partners.You will be responsible for both creating and executing hands-on training initiatives that encompass diesel engine maintenance, diagnostics, repair, and system troubleshooting. This role also contributes to team readiness, supports development of professional certification pathways, drives technical standards, and ensures personnel are prepared to maintain and sustain Saronic-operated vessels in operational environments.Responsibilities:Training Delivery & InstructionLead instructor-led training for internal personnel and external customers on diesel engine systems, maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting workflowsFacilitate hands-on labs, practical maintenance exercises, and field-based training eventsServe as the primary interface for trainee learning, ensuring comprehension, engagement, and technical proficiencyEvaluate trainee performance, administer assessments, and provide actionable feedback and remediationLead certification events and qualification checkouts for diesel maintenance personnelCurriculum & Content DevelopmentTranslate real-world maintenance workflows and technical procedures into structured, scalable training programsDevelop and maintain training materials, including lesson plans, SOPs, technical guides, and practical exercisesContinuously refine curriculum based on field experience, trainee performance, and system updatesPartner with Engineering, Product, and Mission Operations teams to ensure training reflects current configurations and approved maintenance practicesCustomer Training & EnablementOwn customer onboarding and training delivery for diesel maintenance programsTranslate complex mechanical and electrical concepts into clear, operator-focused instructionAct as a trusted technical advisor to customers during training and early operational deploymentGather feedback from trainees and customers to inform improvements to training and maintenance processesField Operations & Training SupportSupport on-site and on-water training events, demonstrations, and mission scenariosDiagnose and troubleshoot diesel engine issues in operational environments while incorporating lessons into trainingEnsure training environments reflect real-world maintenance conditions and operational constraintsAssist with validation of maintenance procedures and system performance in field settingsSystems Maintenance & Technical ExpertisePerform and instruct routine maintenance tasks including oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checksDiagnose and repair diesel engine malfunctions, mechanical issues, and electrical faultsInspect, test, overhaul, and rebuild diesel engine systems including fuel systems, turbochargers, and exhaust systemsUtilize diagnostic tools, technical manuals, and schematics to support troubleshooting and instructionMaintain accurate records of maintenance procedures, service history, and system performanceTeam CollaborationCollaborate with Mission Training, Engineering, Mission Operations, and Product teams to align training with system updatesSupport knowledge transfer from development teams into training programsFoster a collaborative, learning-focused environment across instructors and traineesProvide mentorship and technical guidance to other instructors and maintenance personnelRole Requirements:Demonstrated success in technical instruction, field maintenance, or hands-on mechanical leadership rolesStrong organizational and time management skills with the ability to support multiple training eventsExcellent interpersonal and communication skills across technical and non-technical audiencesDemonstrated problem-solving ability in dynamic operational environmentsAbility to travel up to 50% in support of training and field operationsQualifications:4–8+ years of experience as a diesel technician, preferably in marine or heavy equipment environmentsMarine Diesel and/or Volvo VODIA experience strongly preferredProven experience diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining diesel engines and related systemsStrong mechanical aptitude with ability to read and interpret technical manuals, diagrams, and schematicsExperience with diagnostic tools such as scan tools, multimeters, and oscilloscopesExperience in maritime, defense, or regulated environments preferredPrior experience delivering training or mentoring others (formal or informal) preferredVocational training or certification in diesel mechanics or related field preferredPhysical Demands:Ability to perform physically demanding work for extended periods of time, up to 12 hours/dayFrequently and repetitively, lift, push and carry up to 50 lbs.Ability to work outside for extended periods of time in marine environmentsFrequently and repetitively bend, lift, and reach to install components of varying size and weightAbility to stand and walk for extended periods, including over varied and uneven terrainStoop, lay, bend, reach, squat, kneel, crouch, twist and crawl for extended periodsClimb and maintain balance on ladders, platforms, or other elevated structuresExposure to hazardous materials with required adherence to safety and disposal proceduresWear Personal Protective Equipment, including safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and safety footwearBenefits:Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of servicesSaronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependentsDental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision careSaronic pays 100% of the premium under the basic plan for employees and 80% for dependentsTime Off: Generous PTO and HolidaysParental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parentsCompetitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonusesRetirement Plan: 401(k) plan with company matchStock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company’s successLife and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coveragePet Insurance: Discounted pet insurance options including 24/7 Telehealth helplineAdditional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office Saronic CCPA Notice for Candidates and California EmployeesIf 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