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Auv Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead day-to-day local operations for multiple AUV platforms, including conducting pre-mission testing, launch and recovery, vehicle tasking, and data analysis * Deploy locally in support of at-sea ...

Lead day-to-day local operations for multiple AUV platforms, including conducting pre-mission testing, launch and recovery, vehicle tasking, and data analysis * Deploy locally in support of at-sea ...

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Auv information

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$34

$57

$59

How much do auv jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for auv in the United States is $57.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59.62 and $59.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an AUV?

AUVs, or Autonomous Underwater Vehicles, are robotic devices designed to travel underwater without requiring input from an operator. They are commonly used in oceanography, underwater research, environmental monitoring, and resource exploration. AUVs can be programmed to follow specific routes and collect data such as images, sonar readings, or water quality measurements. Their autonomous nature allows them to operate in environments that may be dangerous or difficult for humans to access.

What challenges do AUV operators face and how can they be managed?

AUV operators often encounter challenges such as unpredictable underwater environments, communication limitations, and ensuring reliable data collection. Adapting to changing ocean conditions and managing battery life are critical aspects of the role. Operators can manage these challenges by thorough mission planning, using robust pre-dive checklists, and leveraging simulation tools for troubleshooting. Collaboration with marine engineers and data analysts is also essential to optimize the vehicle's performance and mission success.

What is the difference between Auv vs Drone Operator?

AspectAuvDrone Operator
Required CredentialsTypically requires AUV-specific training, certifications in underwater roboticsRequires drone pilot certifications, FAA Part 107 license
Work EnvironmentUnderwater, marine or aquatic settingsAirborne, outdoor or indoor environments
Industry UsageMarine research, underwater inspections, subsea surveysAerial photography, surveillance, mapping

While both Auv and Drone Operator roles involve remote-controlled vehicles, Auv specialists focus on underwater vehicles used in marine environments, requiring specific underwater robotics certifications. Drone Operators work with aerial drones in various outdoor settings, often needing FAA certification. The roles differ mainly in environment and specialized training, but both are essential in their respective industries for data collection and inspection tasks.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an AUV operator?

To thrive as an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) Operator, you need a background in marine engineering, robotics, or oceanography, often supported by a relevant degree or technical training. Familiarity with AUV navigation software, sonar systems, and data analysis tools is essential, as are certifications in underwater operations or safety protocols. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help operators adapt to challenging marine environments and coordinate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient missions and accurate data collection in complex underwater settings.

What does an AUV operator do?

An AUV (Autonomous Underwater Vehicle) job involves designing, operating, or maintaining autonomous submersible robots used for underwater exploration and data collection. These roles exist in industries like marine research, defense, and offshore energy. Responsibilities may include mission planning, sensor integration, troubleshooting, and data analysis. AUV professionals typically have backgrounds in robotics, ocean engineering, or computer science.

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Infographic showing various Auv job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,499 per year, or $57.5 per hour.

UUV/AUV Technical Subject Matter Expert

Ventus Solutions

Newport, RI โ€ข On-site

$120 - $165/hr

Other

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Ventus Executive Solutions is a dynamic small business at the forefront of innovation and consulting. We believe our employeesโ€™ success is integral to our mission, which is why we prioritize work-life balance, personal development, and fostering a sense of belonging. In addition to providing opportunities to thrive, we offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits to attract and retain top talent ready to make a meaningful impact. As part of the Ventus Solutions team, youโ€™ll collaborate with government and industry leaders to develop constructive architecture models that inform decision-making at the highest levels of the Department of Defense. As an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) we value curiosity, collaboration, and excellence, and weโ€™re committed to supporting your professional growth through mentorship, career development, and a culture of continuous learning. Join a team where your ideas matter, your expertise drives impact, and your work advances the mission.

Ventus Executive Solutions is seeking a skilled UUV/AUV Technical Subject Matter Expert. You will serve as a trusted technical advisor, leveraging your operational and technical experience with unmanned undersea systems to support UUV/AUV development, integration, experimentation, and operational employment. You will collaborate with Navy and DoD stakeholders to assess emerging technologies, develop concepts and requirements, and help advance innovative unmanned undersea capabilities. Join our team and contribute your expertise to critical undersea warfare and national security initiatives.

Work Location: On-site Newport, RI

Travel: 10% Travel

Clearance: TS Clearance required, SCI eligible preferred.

Required Experience:

  • Bachelorโ€™s Degree in engineering, oceanography, computer science or related technical field
  • 10+ years of experience in undersea warfare, undersea systems, or unmanned undersea systems, with significant direct technical, operational, engineering or programmatic experience with UUVs/AUVs.
  • Demonstrated hands-on or operational understanding of UUV/AUV capabilities, employment concepts, mission applications, technical limitations, integration challenges, and emerging technologies.
  • Experience supporting the development, testing, evaluation, integration, or operational employment of UUV/AUV systems in Navy or DoD environments.
  • Strong understanding of Navy undersea warfare operations, UUV/AUV Concepts of Operations (CONOPS) development, requirements development, systems integration, and acquisition processes.
  • Ability to translate operational needs and mission requirements into technical recommendations, system requirements, CONOPS, and programmatic objectives.
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively with Navy, DoD, industry, and technical stakeholders and communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills; high emotional intelligence
  • Highly proficient with Microsoft 365 or equivalent products including Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook, and Teams

Desired Experience:

  • Former O-4/O-5 U.S. Navy Submariner with operational experience supporting a UUV Squadron (UUVRON) or other unmanned undersea warfare organization.
  • Direct experience with UUV/AUV systems at NAVSEA, NUWC, ONR, DARPA, or other Navy/DoD organizations supporting unmanned undersea systems.
  • Experience with UUV/AUV experimentation, prototyping, test and evaluation, fleet integration, or transition of emerging unmanned undersea technologies into operational use.
  • Experience developing or executing UUV/AUV CONOPS, experimentation plans, operational assessments, or mission-level concepts.
  • Strong understanding and demonstrated experience with the Navyโ€™s Planning, Programming, Budgeting and Execution (PPBE) process.
  • Experience with Navy requirements, acquisition, resourcing, and program management processes related to unmanned systems.
  • Masterโ€™s degree in engineering, oceanography, computer science, or a related technical field.
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