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Unmanned Ship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... unmanned vessels. • Prior participation in prototype testing, sea trials, or government‑observed evaluations. Physical Requirements May require working in an office, industrial or shipboard ...

... unmanned vessels. • Prior participation in prototype testing, sea trials, or government‑observed evaluations. Physical Requirements May require working in an office, industrial or shipboard ...

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Unmanned Ship information

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How much do unmanned ship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for unmanned ship in the United States is $17.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Unmanned Ship vs Unmanned Surface Vehicle?

AspectUnmanned ShipUnmanned Surface Vehicle
CredentialsMaritime certifications, navigation licensesMaritime certifications, remote operation training
Work EnvironmentOpen seas, maritime industryCoastal waters, research or surveillance missions
Industry UsageCommercial shipping, defense, researchResearch, surveillance, environmental monitoring

Unmanned Ships are larger vessels used for commercial, research, or military purposes, requiring maritime certifications. Unmanned Surface Vehicles are smaller, often used for specific tasks like research or surveillance, and may involve remote operation. Both operate on water but differ mainly in size, purpose, and certification requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Unmanned Ship Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Unmanned Ship Operator, you need a strong background in marine engineering, navigation, and remote operations, typically supported by relevant maritime certifications or degrees. Familiarity with autonomous vessel control systems, satellite communications, and maritime regulatory platforms is essential. Excellent problem-solving, situational awareness, and teamwork are vital soft skills for responding to unexpected situations and coordinating with onshore teams. These skills ensure the safe and efficient operation of unmanned vessels, compliance with regulations, and quick adaptation to technological or operational challenges.

What are unmanned ships?

Unmanned ships, also known as autonomous or remotely operated vessels, are ships that operate without a crew physically present on board. These vessels use advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, sensors, and remote control systems to navigate and perform tasks at sea. Unmanned ships can be used for a variety of purposes, including cargo transport, research, surveillance, and military operations. They offer potential benefits like increased safety, reduced operational costs, and improved efficiency. However, they also present unique regulatory, technical, and security challenges that are still being addressed.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals operating unmanned ships, and how are these typically addressed?

Professionals working with unmanned ships often encounter challenges related to remote vessel monitoring, troubleshooting technical malfunctions, and ensuring maritime safety compliance. Since teams work remotely, clear communication and rapid response protocols are essential, especially when coordinating with onshore control centers and maritime authorities. To address these issues, most organizations provide specialized training, implement redundant safety systems, and encourage close collaboration between engineers, software specialists, and operational staff. Continuous learning and adaptability are key for success in this evolving field.
Software Integration Specialist - Shipboard/Unmanned Systems

Software Integration Specialist - Shipboard/Unmanned Systems

INDUS Technology, Inc.

San Diego, CA

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

INDUS is a 100% employee-owned, customer-focused government services provider with expertise in Engineering, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, Program/Financial Management, Logistics, and Data Analytics. At INDUS, we believe in the value of the INDUS team. Together we deliver exceptional customer service, foster a growth and support-centered work environment, and focus on how we can give back to the communities that we serve. Empowering our employees starts on day one and creates an environment full of innovation and promise. By offering mentorship and robust Training and Development opportunities, INDUS continues its pursuit to be the Employer of Choice. 

INDUS supports the planning, coordination, and installation activities of Combat System and Command, Control, Communications, Computer, and Intelligence (C5I) Systems in aircraft carriers, and other strike group or strike force units (including but not limited to LHA, LHD, LPD, and other L-Class units). Our team is directly responsible for supporting the planning, budgeting, and execution of New Construction (SCN) testing and modernization efforts in support of the Modernization and Installation Department (N Department), Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC), Port Hueneme Division (PHD).

Reporting to the Program Manager, the Software Integration Specialist - Shipboard/Unmanned Systems provides installation, configuration, and on-site technical support of critical software systems aboard U.S. Navy shipboard and unmanned crafts on the CVN/L-Class Support Services contract. This position is located in San Diego, CA.


  • Serve as the primary on-site sustainment technician for installing, upgrading, troubleshooting and resolving complex software, network, and system integration issues.
  • Work with multiple industry personnel to install and troubleshoot software.
  • Conduct oversight to support software installations, upgrades and troubleshooting.
  • Travel to shipboard and shore-based locations to perform hands-on installation, configuration, and testing of software systems and applications. Travel may be CONUS or OCONUS.
  • Perform root cause analysis of system failures and provide detailed reports to the Government engineering team to support permanent solutions.
  • Conduct System Operational Verification Tests (SOVT) to validate system functionality and performance post-installation or repair.
  • Liaise and coordinate directly with ship's force, military, government, and industry representatives during maintenance availabilities and installation events.
  • Create and maintain detailed field reports, installation guides, troubleshooting procedures, and system documentation.
  • Communicate often, delivering clear, concise field reports and status briefings to the Government lead, detailing installation progress, troubleshooting outcomes, and any risks to the schedule or system performance.
  • Provide over-the-shoulder training and technical support to system operators and end-users on the craft as required.
  • Bid and proposal support if requested.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

  • An active secret clearance is required to be considered for this position.
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited university required.
  • Ten (10) years of experience providing installation, configuration, and on-site technical support of critical software systems support in a U.S. Navy or similar DoD environment.
  • Experience installing, configuring, and troubleshooting software applications in a complex hardware/software environment.
  • Strong diagnostic and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently under pressure.
  • Working knowledge of networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, subnets, firewalls, routing).
  • Ability to read and interpret technical documentation, schematics, and installation procedures.
  • Must possess basic computer literacy and data entry skills.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (to include MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Demonstrated problem-solving skills.
  • Must possess strong time management skills.
  • Must be able to work in a fast-paced, changing, and challenging environment.
  • Must have an active U.S. Passport or the ability to obtain one within six months of hire date. 
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship, now or at any time in the future.

Desired Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • Prior U.S. Navy or DoD technical training related to shipboard systems, networking, cybersecurity, or unmanned systems.
  • Prior U.S. Navy/DoD shipboard systems integration or unmanned systems experience

Physical Requirements:

  • Must be able to remain seated in a stationary position 50% of the time. Must also be able to alternate between sitting, standing, and walking.
  • The work requires some physical exertion, such as long periods of standing, or recurring and considerable walking, stooping, bending, crouching, and climbing such as performing regular shop activities, inspections, or to observe and study operations in an industrial or comparable work area, or on-board ships, submarines, and/or in weapon facilities.
  • Travel Required ~50% travel required, including to CONUS and OCONUS locations and underway travel.

INDUS aims to provide a competitive compensation package, including a strong pay for performance rewards approach. The expected base pay range for this position is $105,000 - $135,000 per year. This position is eligible to participate in our corporate 401(k) and Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) programs, and may be eligible for performance bonuses, and other rewards and benefits (see more about our compensation package and benefits offered at Culture @ INDUS | INDUS Technology). The pay range for this role considers job-related knowledge, skills, work location, education and training, and certifications. To drive fair pay practices for employees, INDUS conducts regular comparisons across our employee groups and the industry.

INDUS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, seeking to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, genetics, age, or veteran status or any other applicable legally protected status or characteristic.

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