ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vatn Systems

Acoustic Systems Engineer

Bristol, RI · On-site

* About Vatn Systems Vatn Systems is an innovative startup at the forefront of designing and manufacturing autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). Our mission is to revolutionize underwater security ...

Vatn Systems

Acoustic Systems Engineer

Bristol, RI · On-site

About Vatn Systems Vatn Systems is an innovative startup at the forefront of designing and manufacturing autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). Our mission is to revolutionize underwater security ...

Vatn Systems

Perception Engineer

Bristol, RI · On-site

Vatn Systems is an innovative startup at the forefront of designing and manufacturing autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). Our mission is to revolutionize underwater security, exploration, research ...

Vatn Systems

Perception Engineer

Bristol, RI · On-site

Vatn Systems is an innovative startup at the forefront of designing and manufacturing autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). Our mission is to revolutionize underwater security, exploration, research ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All Jobsfreelance JobsFreelance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle Jobs

Freelance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle information

See salary details

$29

$62

$71

How much do freelance autonomous underwater vehicle jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance autonomous underwater vehicle in the United States is $62.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60.34 and $68.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance autonomous underwater vehicle operator?

A Freelance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) operator is a professional who works independently to operate, maintain, and manage AUVs for various underwater tasks. These tasks may include environmental monitoring, underwater mapping, pipeline inspection, or scientific research. Freelance AUV operators are hired on a contract basis by organizations that require specialized underwater data collection or inspection services without employing full-time staff. They are skilled in navigation, troubleshooting, and data analysis related to AUV missions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance autonomous underwater vehicle operator?

To thrive as a Freelance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) Operator, you need expertise in marine engineering, robotics, navigation systems, and ideally a relevant degree in oceanography, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with AUV control software, sonar mapping systems, GPS navigation, and certifications such as IMCA ROV Pilot/Technician are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital for adapting to dynamic underwater environments and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure accurate data collection, safe operation of expensive equipment, and successful project outcomes in challenging marine settings.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance professionals working with autonomous underwater vehicles?

Freelance AUV operators often encounter challenges such as managing the logistics of transporting and deploying equipment to remote or offshore locations, adapting to rapidly changing oceanic conditions, and ensuring consistent communication with clients and onshore teams. Additionally, freelancers must stay up-to-date with evolving AUV technology and software to meet client expectations, while also handling the business aspects of freelancing like contracts, insurance, and scheduling. Effective problem-solving and strong self-management skills are key to overcoming these challenges and succeeding in this role.

What is the difference between Freelance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle vs Freelance Marine Technician?

AspectFreelance Autonomous Underwater VehicleFreelance Marine Technician
CredentialsEngineering, robotics, or marine technology backgroundMarine engineering, electronics, or mechanical certifications
Work EnvironmentField operations, research vessels, offshore sitesShipyards, maintenance facilities, offshore platforms
Industry UsageResearch, exploration, environmental monitoringMaintenance, repair, and installation of marine equipment

While both roles involve working in marine environments, Freelance Autonomous Underwater Vehicles focus on designing, deploying, and managing robotic systems for underwater tasks. Freelance Marine Technicians primarily perform maintenance and repairs on marine equipment. The roles differ in technical focus and work settings but share a common industry background.

More about Freelance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle jobs

What cities are hiring for Freelance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Autonomous Underwater Vehicle jobs?

The most popular types of Autonomous Underwater Vehicle jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle jobs are:

Freelance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 42% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,079 per year, or $62.5 per hour.

Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) Operator - Newport, RI Jobs

ClearanceJobs

Newport, RI • On-site

$21.75 - $27.50/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) Operator

If you love high profile and challenging projects supporting the Navy then Serco has a great opportunity for you! As the Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) Operator, you will be on a dynamic team responsible for engineering support, maintenance management and life cycle support of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles for our customer in the Newport, Rhode Island area. Bring your expertise and collaborative skills to make an impact on our national security. Serco supports the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC), including support for the design, acquisition, testing and sustainment of naval undersea warfare systems. You will be leading a team that works closely with the customer to deliver management, engineering, acquisition, and logistics support required to conduct system upgrades, maintenance, and sustainment in support of autonomous underwater vehicles. Serco has been supporting the Naval Sea Systems Command for over 50 years and has been recognized by the Navy for their outstanding contributions. In this role, you will:

  • Plan and execute AUV missions in support of test and evaluation, fleet experimentation, and research objectives
  • Conduct launch and recovery operations from government and contracted vessels in accordance with Navy safety procedures
  • Configure AUV mission parameters, navigation systems, and payloads to meet test requirements
  • Monitor vehicle performance during operations and respond to off-nominal conditions
  • Perform pre- and post-mission system checks, calibration, and verification
  • Retrieve, validate, and organize mission data in accordance with program data management standards
  • Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and software issues in both field and laboratory environments
  • Support integration and testing of new sensors, payloads, and autonomy capabilities
  • Maintain AUV systems, including batteries, pressure housings, propulsion components, and communication systems
  • Document mission execution, discrepancies, and system performance for technical reports and test documentation
  • Interface with government leads, range personnel, and engineering teams to support mission success
  • Ensure compliance with NAVSEA, NUWC, and range safety requirements

To be successful in this role, you will have:

  • An Active or Current DoD Secret Clearance.
  • US Citizenship.
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related discipline. Bachelor's degree may be substituted for additional similar/relevant experience.
  • 2 years of relevant experience.
  • Experience supporting unmanned or autonomous systems (AUV, ROV, USV, or UAV).
  • Familiarity with marine operations and at-sea deployment environments.
  • Basic knowledge of navigation systems (INS, GPS, Doppler Velocity Log, acoustic positioning).
  • Basic electrical and mechanical troubleshooting.
  • Ability to operate in dynamic, mission-driven environments.
  • Willingness and ability to support at-sea operations, including extended deployments.
  • Strong technical writing and documentation skills.
  • Excellent problem-solving ability and a collaborative, team-oriented attitude.
  • Ability to travel up to 25%.

Serco Inc. (Serco) is the Americas division of Serco Group, plc. In North America, Serco's 9,000+ employees strive to make an impact every day across 100+ sites in the areas of Defense, Citizen Services, and Transportation. We help our clients deliver vital services more efficiently while increasing the satisfaction of their end customers. Serco serves every branch of the U.S. military, numerous U.S. Federal civilian agencies, the Intelligence Community, the Canadian government, state, provincial and local governments, and commercial clients. Wherever you work and whatever you do, we invite you to discover your place in our world. Serco is a place you can count on and where you can make an impact because every contribution matters.

Apply