Manufacturing Engineer – Paint & Coatings Planning
About The Position
The Manufacturing Engineer – Paint & Coatings Planning defines the paint and coatings plan for each vessel program and builds the shipyard's long-term coatings capability through qualified outside labor and a developed internal workforce. This role determines what gets coated, when, with what systems, and in what sequence relative to fabrication and outfitting. Coatings protect the long-term integrity of every hull the yard builds, and a coatings failure is often invisible until the ship is in service and far more expensive to fix than to prevent. This role establishes qualification standards (SSPC-QP1, SSPC-QP3) for outsourced painting contractors and builds the path to bring SSPC-QP1 and NACE-certified coatings expertise in-house. This role works closely with structural, piping, electrical, and HVAC planning teams, quality assurance, and outside coatings contractors to build a credible, auditable coatings program from the ground up.
Requirements
- Hands-on experience in marine or industrial coatings (applicator, inspector, coatings/corrosion engineer) or equivalent planning experience built on that trade background.
- Understanding of coating systems and surface prep standards (SSPC-SP grades, NACE standards) and application methods.
- Working knowledge of SSPC-QP1 and SSPC-QP3 contractor certification standards.
- Understanding of what it takes for an individual to become SSPC-QP1 or NACE coatings inspector certified.
- Strong written communication skills to produce clear coatings specifications and audit documentation.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in new construction shipbuilding; industrial, marine repair, or heavy fabrication coatings experience also considered.
- NACE or SSPC certification, or active pursuit of one.
- Experience building contractor qualification, audit, and vendor management processes.
- Familiarity with ABS, USCG, or NAVSEA coatings requirements and documentation expectations.
- Technical/trade school, associate's, or bachelor's degree in coatings technology, materials/corrosion engineering, or a related field.
Responsibilities
- Develop the overall paint and coatings plan for each vessel program, defining coating systems, surface preparation, and application methods by compartment and structure type.
- Sequence coating work against fabrication, outfitting, and erection so blasting and painting happen at the correct stage.
- Define environmental control requirements and surface prep standards (SSPC-SP grades, NACE standards), and establish inspection hold points and acceptance criteria.
- Establish and maintain standards for qualifying outsourced coatings contractors, requiring SSPC-QP1 certification for field application and SSPC-QP3 for shop/fabrication-coating application.
- Build the evaluation, audit, and onboarding process for the approved vendor base.
- Manage the qualification lifecycle, including renewals, re-audits, and corrective action.
- Define and build the path to develop internal coatings capability, including the training and certification roadmap for personnel to achieve SSPC-QP1 and NACE coatings inspector credentials.
- Identify internal candidates and structure on-the-job training and mentorship.
- Coordinate external training and exam requirements toward a long-term internally qualified workforce.
- Maintain documentation, qualification records, and audit trail for classification/regulatory review.
- Refine the coatings plan and qualification program based on floor performance and inspection results.
- Identify and resolve sequencing conflicts between coatings work and other trades.
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
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Associate degree
