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Rov Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sr Electronics Engineer

Irvine, CA

$114K - $141K/yr

Create and maintain thorough engineering documentation including schematics, BOMs, assembly ... ROV systems * Support sales and customer service with technical documentation, product ...

Sr Robotics Engineer

Irvine, CA

$114K - $149K/yr

Create and maintain thorough engineering documentation including schematics, BOMs, assembly ... ROV systems * Support sales and customer service with technical documentation, product ...

Sr Robotics Engineer

Irvine, CA

$114K - $149K/yr

Create and maintain thorough engineering documentation including schematics, BOMs, assembly ... ROV systems * Support sales and customer service with technical documentation, product ...

Sr Robotics Engineer

Irvine, CA

$114K - $149K/yr

Create and maintain thorough engineering documentation including schematics, BOMs, assembly ... ROV systems * Support sales and customer service with technical documentation, product ...

Sr Robotics Engineer

Irvine, CA

$114K - $149K/yr

Create and maintain thorough engineering documentation including schematics, BOMs, assembly ... ROV systems * Support sales and customer service with technical documentation, product ...

Sr Electronics Engineer

Irvine, CA

$114K - $141K/yr

Create and maintain thorough engineering documentation including schematics, BOMs, assembly ... ROV systems * Support sales and customer service with technical documentation, product ...

Sr Robotics Engineer

Irvine, CA

$114K - $149K/yr

Create and maintain thorough engineering documentation including schematics, BOMs, assembly ... ROV systems * Support sales and customer service with technical documentation, product ...

Electro Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$110 - $170/hr

Author engineering changes and test procedures for complex ROV systems and subsystems. * Support the development of standard processes and documentation. * Inspect parts and assemblies to ensure ...

Second Engineer ER

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120 - $190/hr

... the ROV department as needed. You will also exercise "Stop the Job" authority if safety or ... Maritime engineering education and compliance with all STCW requirements. * CoC with competency ...

Mechanical Technician

San Diego, CA · On-site

$27.36 - $38.61/hr

... SRDRS, SRCFS, ROV, SILOS, LWMS). Maintain rescue teams and systems in the highest state of ... engineered services and products, primarily to the offshore energy industry. We develop products ...

Mechanical Technician

San Diego, CA · On-site

$27.36 - $38.61/hr

... SRDRS, SRCFS, ROV, SILOS, LWMS). Maintain rescue teams and systems in the highest state of ... engineered services and products, primarily to the offshore energy industry. We develop products ...

Rov Engineering information

See California salary details

$32.1K

$62.2K

$94.2K

How much do rov engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for rov engineering in California is $62,152.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,400.00 and $71,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is ROV engineering?

ROV engineering involves the design, development, operation, and maintenance of remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), which are unmanned, underwater robots used for various tasks such as inspection, maintenance, and exploration in marine environments. ROV engineers work on mechanical, electrical, electronic, and software systems to ensure these vehicles perform effectively in challenging underwater conditions. The role often requires knowledge of robotics, hydraulics, control systems, and subsea technologies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ROV engineer?

To thrive as an ROV Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical, electrical, or marine engineering, often supported by a relevant degree and hands-on experience with remotely operated vehicles. Familiarity with ROV control systems, subsea sensors, hydraulic systems, and certifications such as IMCA ROV Pilot Technician are typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help engineers adapt to challenging offshore environments and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary crews. These competencies are essential to ensure safe, efficient, and accurate underwater operations in industries like oil and gas, research, and subsea construction.

What are some common challenges ROV engineers face when working offshore, and how can they prepare for them?

ROV Engineers working offshore often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, equipment malfunctions, and extended periods away from home. To prepare, it's important to develop strong troubleshooting skills, stay up-to-date with safety protocols, and maintain flexibility in problem-solving. Building good communication with the on-site team and being proactive with equipment maintenance also helps ensure smoother operations and minimizes downtime.

What is the difference between Rov Engineering vs Marine Engineer?

AspectRov EngineeringMarine Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires engineering degrees and ROV-specific certificationsRequires engineering or maritime degrees, with marine certifications
Work EnvironmentUnderwater ROV operations, offshore facilitiesShipboard, onboard ships, and maritime facilities
Industry UsageOil & gas, underwater research, subsea inspectionsShipping, vessel maintenance, maritime industries

Rov Engineers focus on designing, maintaining, and operating remotely operated vehicles used underwater, often in offshore environments. Marine Engineers work on ship systems, propulsion, and onboard machinery. While both roles require engineering expertise and maritime knowledge, Rov Engineering is specialized in underwater robotics, whereas Marine Engineering centers on ship operations and maintenance.

What are popular job titles related to Rov Engineering jobs in California?

For Rov Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Rov Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,152 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Sr Electronics Engineer

Irvine, CA

$114K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in embedded electronics, power systems, underwater hardware challenges, and a passion for precision engineering in mission-critical environments.
 Key ResponsibilitiesHardware Design & Development
  • Design, prototype, and test electronic systems for professional underwater ROVs, including power electronics, motor controllers (ESCs), sensor interfaces, and communication systems
  • Develop and maintain PCB schematics and layouts using industry-standard EDA tools (e.g., Altium or equivalent)
  • Select and evaluate components for reliability, availability, and cost-effectiveness in marine/underwater environments
  • Design and troubleshoot battery management systems (BMS), including charging, protection, and state-of-charge monitoring circuits

Embedded Systems & Firmware
  • Collaborate with software engineers to define hardware/firmware interfaces and ensure seamless system integration
  • Develop and debug low-level firmware for microcontrollers and FPGAs used in ROV systems
  • Implement and validate communication protocols including RS-232, RS-485, CAN bus, I2C, SPI, and Ethernet/tether communication

Underwater & Marine Systems
  • Design electronics for operation in pressure-rated, waterproof enclosures rated to depths exceeding 1000 meters
  • Work with acoustic systems, including acoustic beacons, modems, and USBL positioning systems
  • Ensure compliance with EMI/EMC requirements and underwater safety standards

Testing, Validation & Documentation
  • Develop and execute comprehensive test plans, including environmental, pressure, and operational testing
  • Investigate and resolve field failures, ESC anomalies, sensor faults, and integration issues through systematic root cause analysis
  • Create and maintain thorough engineering documentation including schematics, BOMs, assembly drawings, and test reports
  • Support production team with manufacturing documentation and quality review processes

Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Work closely with mechanical engineers, software developers, and production staff to deliver fully integrated ROV systems
  • Support sales and customer service with technical documentation, product demonstrations, and field issue resolution
  • Contribute to product roadmap discussions and new product development initiatives
 Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Robotics Engineering, or a closely related field
  • Minimum 5 years of professional experience in electronics design and development
  • Proven experience with power electronics design, including motor drive circuits, ESCs, and DC power management
  • Proficiency in PCB design using Altium Designer, KiCad, or equivalent EDA software
  • Hands-on experience with embedded microcontrollers (ARM Cortex, AVR, PIC, or similar)
  • Strong understanding of analog circuit design, signal conditioning, and sensor interfacing
  • Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex electronic systems using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and other lab instrumentation
  • Experience with technical documentation: schematics, BOMs, engineering change orders, and test procedures
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to explain technical concepts clearly
 Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with underwater marine electronics systems or similar.
  • Knowledge of Linux and embedded programming is a plus.
  • Familiarity with acoustic systems: underwater acoustic beacons, transponders, modems, or USBL/LBL positioning systems a plus.
  • Knowledge of brushless motor drive systems and ESC tuning for underwater thrusters
  • Experience with tether communication systems (fiber optic, twisted pair, or coax) for ROV applications
  • Experience with waterproofing, conformal coating, and potting techniques for marine-grade electronics
  • Knowledge of relevant standards: MIL-SPEC, IPC, or IEC marine electronics standards
 Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive base salary (DOE)
  • Performance-based incentives and bonus program
  • Health, dental, vision and life insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Paid time off
  • Company paid holidays (10)