Job Description:
Ordnance & Energetics Expert (Field Test Lead)
The Role
At Surge Marine, we don't just build systems on paper; we prove them in the brutal conditions of the North Sea. We are seeking an Ordnance & Energetics Expert.
You won't just be designing the "business end" of our maritime robotics—you will be the Lead Test Officer responsible for the safe execution, deployment, and recovery of energetic payloads during live-fire and shock-test sea trials.
The Mission
Field Test Leadership: Own the "Live Range" environment. You are the final authority on "Go/No-Go" decisions for all energetic systems during field testing.
System Integration: Lead the mechanical and electrical integration of ordnance and energetic payloads into our Whiplash autonomous platforms.
Fuse & Ignition Systems: Design and validate electronic/mechanical fusing sequences. Ensure zero-fail reliability when commanded and "always-safe" stability during high-speed transit.
Range Safety & Logistics: Develop and execute mission-specific safety plans. Coordinate with maritime authorities for range clearance and hazardous material transport.
Environmental Hardening: Ensure all energetic components and triggering mechanisms are "maritime-hardened" against saltwater, extreme vibration, and shock.
Post-Test Analysis: Lead the recovery and "Safe-to-Board" procedures for platforms. Conduct forensic analysis on any misfires or mechanical failures.
Who You Are
You are a rare breed: a disciplined technical expert with the "sea legs" to operate in high-stress outdoor environments. You understand that a lab test is just a suggestion—the North Sea is the only validator that matters.
The Essentials:
Technical Background: Degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent, plus formal ordnance/EOD certification.
Field Experience: Proven track record of leading hazardous field tests, preferably in maritime or remote environments.
Operational Discipline: Deep understanding of primary/secondary explosives, pyrotechnic initiators, and electronic safety & arming devices (SADs).
Mechanical Mastery: Ability to troubleshoot and repair mechanical linkages or firing circuits on a moving deck in the rain.
The "Lead" Mindset: Calm under pressure. You can manage a test team and maintain absolute safety protocol when timelines are tight.
Nationality: Due to the sensitivity of our defense contracts, Dutch or NATO-country nationality and security clearance eligibility are mandatory.
The Surge Offer
We offer a high-octane environment where your work is the literal "spark" that brings our machines to life.
Competitive Salary: Scaled to your "black magic" skills and seniority.
Equity/Options: We want you to have a stake in the success of the platform you help build.
On-site Hub: Work in our specialized Valkenburg facility, surrounded by the hardware and the team.
No Red Tape: We move fast. If you find a better way to optimize our systems, we implement it.
Adventure: Real-world testing. You’ll see your systems perform in the North Sea, not just on a screen.
Ready to Lead the Charge?
Forget the corporate bio. Send us your CV and a summary of the most complex or dangerous field test you’ve ever led. We want to know how you managed the risk and what you did when things didn't go according to plan.
Contact: career@surgemarine.eu