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Saildrone Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Saildrone

Staff Cost Accountant

Alameda, CA · On-site

$90K - $108K/yr

THE COMPANY Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV ...

Saildrone

Facilities Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

THE COMPANY Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV ...

Saildrone

Vehicle Assembly and Service Technician

THE COMPANY Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV ...

Saildrone

Staff Software Engineer, Perception

Alameda, CA · On-site

$215K - $270K/yr

THE COMPANY Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV ...

Saildrone

USV Pilot

Alameda, CA · On-site

$43.36 - $56.34/hr

THE COMPANY Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV ...

Saildrone

Technical Operations Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

$78K - $106K/yr

THE COMPANY Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV ...

Saildrone

Staff Software Engineer, Security

Alameda, CA · On-site

$189K - $243K/yr

THE COMPANY Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV ...

Saildrone

Support Vessel Deckhand

THE COMPANY Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV ...

Saildrone

Corporate Controller

Alameda, CA · On-site

$201K - $266K/yr

THE COMPANY Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV ...

Saildrone

Senior Software Engineer, Robotics

Alameda, CA · On-site

$176K - $226K/yr

THE COMPANY Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV ...

Saildrone

Composite Technician

Alameda, CA · On-site

$30.24 - $41.88/hr

THE COMPANY Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV ...

Saildrone

Staff Embedded Software Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

$215K - $260K/yr

THE COMPANY Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV ...

Saildrone

Senior Systems Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

THE COMPANY Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV ...

Saildrone

Director of Contracting

Washington, DC · On-site

THE COMPANY Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV ...

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How much do saildrone jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for saildrone in the United States is $26.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Saildrone?

Saildrone vehicles are unmanned, wind- and solar-powered ocean drones used to collect high-resolution data from the world's oceans. These autonomous surface vehicles (ASVs) are equipped with scientific sensors to measure atmospheric and oceanographic data, such as temperature, salinity, and carbon levels. Saildrones are used for a variety of applications, including climate research, fisheries management, weather forecasting, and maritime security. Their ability to operate for long periods without human intervention makes them a valuable tool for ocean data collection.

What are some unique challenges Saildrone engineers face when developing and deploying autonomous ocean vehicles?

Engineers at Saildrone often contend with designing robust systems that can withstand extreme oceanic conditions, such as high winds, strong currents, and corrosive saltwater. Additionally, they must ensure reliable data transmission and vehicle autonomy over long durations, often in remote areas with limited connectivity. Collaboration across multidisciplinary teams—including software, hardware, and data science—is essential to troubleshoot issues and optimize vehicle performance. These challenges require adaptability, creative problem-solving, and a strong commitment to iterative testing and improvement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Saildrone operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Saildrone Operator, you generally need a background in oceanography, marine engineering, or a related technical field, often with relevant degrees or certifications. Familiarity with remote vehicle control systems, satellite communication tools, and data analysis platforms is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing autonomous missions and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the successful operation, data integrity, and safety of unmanned surface vehicles in challenging marine environments.

What is the difference between Saildrone vs Marine Technician?

AspectSaildroneMarine Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; technical training or certifications preferredHigh school diploma; technical certifications often required
Work EnvironmentRemote, outdoor, often at sea or in coastal areasMarina, shipyard, or offshore facilities
Industry UsageAutonomous marine data collection and researchMaintenance and repair of marine equipment and vessels

While Saildrone specialists focus on operating and maintaining autonomous marine drones for data collection, Marine Technicians handle the repair and maintenance of traditional marine vessels and equipment. Both roles require technical skills and industry knowledge but differ in work environment and specific responsibilities.

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What cities are hiring for Saildrone jobs?

Cities with the most Saildrone job openings:

What job categories do people searching Saildrone jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Saildrone jobs are:

Saildrone jobs near you
Infographic showing various Saildrone job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,791 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Vehicle Assembly and Service Technician

Saildrone

Alameda, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

THE COMPANY
Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV manufacturer or operator, Saildrone maintains active, combat-deployed systems supporting national security and force projection around the world, 24/7/365.
Saildrone's manufacturing and R&D headquarters are located in Alameda, CA, with business development and sales operations in Washington, DC, and deployment hubs in Europe and the Middle East. By combining proven autonomous operations, edge computing, advanced sensing, renewable power, and the most advanced and robust unmanned surface technology on the planet, Saildrone is shaping how the Navy of the future operates. Join a fast-moving, mission-driven team at the forefront of maritime security and autonomous innovation.
THE POSITION
Saildrone is seeking a Vehicle Assembly & Service Technician to join our Vehicle Assembly and Service team. Reporting to the Vehicle Operations Manager, you will collaborate with a variety of teams in engineering, operations, and production. You will interact with clients and lead teams, both in the shop and around the world, to execute assembly and service operations. You will help turn in-field realities into product improvements, serving as an important link between our end users and the teams at Saildrone who design our products. We are looking for a hands-on technical leader who sets high standards, thrives in demanding field environments, and translates heavy industrial and marine experience into mission success.
THE TEAM
Saildrone's autonomous surface vehicles operate for unprecedented periods of time in the most unforgiving environments on the planet. From inside of hurricanes to the frigid waters of the Arctic, the stresses they endure are immense. The technical execution of preparing the vehicles for their mission and servicing their constituent parts must be performed with a high degree of skill and consistency. The Vehicle Assembly & Service Team is responsible for constructing and servicing Saildrone vehicles as well as training and leading others to do the same.
THE RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Fleet Assembly & Service: Lead the assembly and service workflows for the Saildrone vehicle fleet, ensuring all drones are fully mission-capable and optimized for maximum operational uptime.
  • Technical Execution: Apply fundamentally sound mechanical and electrical skills to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair equipment in a challenging field environment.
  • Global Field Operations: Travel domestically and internationally to execute the deployment, recovery, and repair of Saildrone vehicles.
  • External Training & Mentorship: Lead the technical development of the team and train contractors, clients, and other third parties on complex technical procedures, including vehicle assembly and servicing.
  • Professional Representation: Act as a brand ambassador for Saildrone, maintaining high levels of self-awareness and professionalism during all interactions with clients and internal colleagues.
  • Continuous Improvement: Proactively assess current workflows, in-field assembly procedures, and vehicle designs to provide feedback that increases safety, consistency, and overall efficiency.
THE QUALIFICATIONS
  • 5 or more years of experience executing operations involving the application of fundamentally sound electrical and mechanical skills while performing a technical service role in a field, shipyard, or heavy industrial environment; must be able to follow service instructions/diagrams and use tools ranging from basic hand tools to heavy equipment and rigging required.
  • Ability to lead and work in teams, including third-party contractors, to execute operational plans and deliver on contractual obligations; must be able to simplify technical concepts and product knowledge to teach and coach end-users on vehicle assembly and service required.
  • Strong organizational habits and a willingness to define, follow, and improve safety, process, and work standards while maintaining appropriate records and inventories required.
  • U.S. Person Status and eligible for a U.S. Department of Defense security clearance; willingness to support 50% - 75% domestic and international travel required.
  • Desire and ability to provide industry-defining customer service for both external customers and Saildrone colleagues required.
  • Prior experience planning, leading, and performing technically complex operations in the field for a global OEM servicing the automotive, aerospace, shipyard, offshore oil and gas, heavy civil/mining, renewable energy, or telecommunications industries preferred.
  • Experience in a fast-paced, start-up environment or an advanced serviceability / manufacturability of design role, with the ability to develop technical repair content to support global standardization and service documentation preferred.
  • Ability to systematically isolate, diagnose, and repair issues on electro-mechanical systems in a marine environment preferred.
  • Personal or professional experience on or near water, including familiarity with rigging, mooring, and basic boat handling principles preferred.
  • Experience with heavy equipment loading, shipping preparation, offloading, and relocation. Proficiency in driving forklifts, lifting machines, and crane operation preferred.
  • Experience driving 30+ ft twin-engine powerboats with vehicles in tow and general experience at sea preferred.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Must be willing to travel domestically and internationally 50-75% of the time, which includes renting and operating motor vehicles.
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and perform a full range of physical motions, including bending, crouching, stooping, crawling, kneeling, and reaching overhead in a shipyard or industrial setting.
  • Proficiency in both fine manipulation and gross motor skills required to assemble, calibrate, and repair intricate electro-mechanical components.
  • Able to pass a respirator fit test, wear a respirator and other specialized Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for extended durations when required by safety protocols.
  • Comfort working at heights, within confined spaces, and in extreme temperatures or weather conditions typical of maritime field operations.
  • Maintained visual acuity to inspect technical assemblies and hearing/speaking capabilities to ensure clear, safe communication within a high-decibel or active work zone.
  • Excellent physical balance and coordination to safely navigate docks, vessels, and uneven surfaces while handling equipment or tools.

The base salary range for this position is shown below. Actual compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and qualifications. This range reflects the base salary for candidates in states requiring pay transparency disclosure.
Salary Range
$90,000-$120,000 USD
To view Saildrone's candidate privacy policy, please visit: https://www.saildrone.com/privacy-policy.
BENEFITS
At Saildrone, we're building operational capability that matters-and that requires people who can do their best work over the long term. We invest in our team's well-being, financial security, and professional growth so you can focus on delivering real-world impact with confidence and stability. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support you and your family while you contribute to a mission with lasting significance.
  • Generous Time Off: Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual plus a robust annual holiday schedule and paid sick leave ensure you can rest, reset, and sustain performance over time.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Premium, multi-tier Medical, Dental, and Vision plans with significant company contributions for employees and dependents-providing security and peace of mind.
  • Shared Ownership in the Mission: Equity grants are a core part of our compensation, allowing you to participate in the long-term value you help create through meaningful, operational work.
  • Retirement Savings: Access to a 401(k) retirement plan with flexible pre-tax and Roth payroll contribution options supports long-term financial planning.
  • Investment in Your Growth: We support your continuous learning through an annual professional development reimbursement program, empowering you to sharpen your skills and stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving field.
  • Relocation Support: For eligible roles, we offer relocation assistance to help bring the world's best talent to our mission-critical locations.

Saildrone is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

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