Diesel Technician, Instructor

Saronic Technologies•San Diego, CA

About The Position

Saronic 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.

Requirements

Demonstrated success in technical instruction, field maintenance, or hands-on mechanical leadership roles
Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to support multiple training events
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills across technical and non-technical audiences
Demonstrated problem-solving ability in dynamic operational environments
Ability to travel up to 50% in support of training and field operations
4–8+ years of experience as a diesel technician, preferably in marine or heavy equipment environments
Proven experience diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining diesel engines and related systems
Strong mechanical aptitude with ability to read and interpret technical manuals, diagrams, and schematics
Experience with diagnostic tools such as scan tools, multimeters, and oscilloscopes

Nice To Haves

Marine Diesel and/or Volvo VODIA experience strongly preferred
Experience in maritime, defense, or regulated environments preferred
Prior experience delivering training or mentoring others (formal or informal) preferred
Vocational training or certification in diesel mechanics or related field preferred

Responsibilities

Lead instructor-led training for internal personnel and external customers on diesel engine systems, maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting workflows
Facilitate hands-on labs, practical maintenance exercises, and field-based training events
Serve as the primary interface for trainee learning, ensuring comprehension, engagement, and technical proficiency
Evaluate trainee performance, administer assessments, and provide actionable feedback and remediation
Lead certification events and qualification checkouts for diesel maintenance personnel
Translate real-world maintenance workflows and technical procedures into structured, scalable training programs
Develop and maintain training materials, including lesson plans, SOPs, technical guides, and practical exercises
Continuously refine curriculum based on field experience, trainee performance, and system updates
Partner with Engineering, Product, and Mission Operations teams to ensure training reflects current configurations and approved maintenance practices
Own customer onboarding and training delivery for diesel maintenance programs
Translate complex mechanical and electrical concepts into clear, operator-focused instruction
Act as a trusted technical advisor to customers during training and early operational deployment
Gather feedback from trainees and customers to inform improvements to training and maintenance processes
Support on-site and on-water training events, demonstrations, and mission scenarios
Diagnose and troubleshoot diesel engine issues in operational environments while incorporating lessons into training
Ensure training environments reflect real-world maintenance conditions and operational constraints
Assist with validation of maintenance procedures and system performance in field settings
Perform and instruct routine maintenance tasks including oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks
Diagnose and repair diesel engine malfunctions, mechanical issues, and electrical faults
Inspect, test, overhaul, and rebuild diesel engine systems including fuel systems, turbochargers, and exhaust systems
Utilize diagnostic tools, technical manuals, and schematics to support troubleshooting and instruction
Maintain accurate records of maintenance procedures, service history, and system performance
Collaborate with Mission Training, Engineering, Mission Operations, and Product teams to align training with system updates
Support knowledge transfer from development teams into training programs
Foster a collaborative, learning-focused environment across instructors and trainees
Provide mentorship and technical guidance to other instructors and maintenance personnel

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