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Unmanned Surface Vessels Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Test Engineer Senior Principal

San Diego, CA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

The Medium Displacement Unmanned Surface Vessel (MDUSV) program involves deployment of autonomous unmanned surface vessels (USV's) to demonstrate an enhanced warfighting capability to disrupt ...

SAIC

Test Engineer Senior Principal

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

The Medium Displacement Unmanned Surface Vessel (MDUSV) program involves deployment of autonomous unmanned surface vessels (USV's) to demonstrate an enhanced warfighting capability to disrupt ...

SAIC

Test Engineer Senior Principal

San Diego, CA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

The Medium Displacement Unmanned Surface Vessel (MDUSV) program involves deployment of autonomous unmanned surface vessels (USV's) to demonstrate an enhanced warfighting capability to disrupt ...

SAIC

Test Engineer Senior Principal

Spring Valley, CA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

The Medium Displacement Unmanned Surface Vessel (MDUSV) program involves deployment of autonomous unmanned surface vessels (USV's) to demonstrate an enhanced warfighting capability to disrupt ...

SAIC

Test Engineer Senior Principal

San Diego, CA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

The Medium Displacement Unmanned Surface Vessel (MDUSV) program involves deployment of autonomous unmanned surface vessels (USV's) to demonstrate an enhanced warfighting capability to disrupt ...

SAIC

Test Engineer Senior Principal

San Diego, CA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

The Medium Displacement Unmanned Surface Vessel (MDUSV) program involves deployment of autonomous unmanned surface vessels (USV's) to demonstrate an enhanced warfighting capability to disrupt ...

SAIC

Test Engineer Senior Principal

Del Mar, CA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

The Medium Displacement Unmanned Surface Vessel (MDUSV) program involves deployment of autonomous unmanned surface vessels (USV's) to demonstrate an enhanced warfighting capability to disrupt ...

GEOxyz Belgium

WI · On-site

$125K/yr

... vessels and Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs).Operating From Scandinavia to Morocco, with a strong ... focus on the North Sea basin, we are expanding globally. Our team of 700+ experts embodies our ...

Integer

Systems Engineer

Columbia, SC · On-site

Experience with unmanned and autonomous systems research involving maritime autonomous systems such as uncrewed surface vessels (USVs). * Experience with ROS (Robot Operating System) or ROS 2 ...

Marcurius

Trainee USV Pilot

Clearwater, FL · On-site

... unmanned surface vessels. This entry-level development role combines maritime operations, remote vehicle control, autonomous mission execution, safety, mission planning and basic operator-level ...

Integer Technologies

Systems Engineer

Columbia, SC · On-site

$110 - $165/hr

Experience with unmanned and autonomous systems research involving maritime autonomous systems such as uncrewed surface vessels (USVs). * Experience with ROS (Robot Operating System) or ROS 2 ...

Huntington Ingalls Industries

Technician 4

Pocasset, MA · On-site

$19.75 - $27/hr

... unmanned surface vessels (USVs). Leadership Mindset at HII - Mission Technologies Leadership at HII is a mindset, not a title. Through our Leadership Capability Framework, we define how every ...

Saronic Technologies

ASV Operator

Austin, TX · On-site

The ASV Operator will spend a significant amount of time in the field, testing our Autonomous ... Experience with Autonomous Surface Vessels (ASVs), marine vehicles, or unmanned systems.

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Unmanned Surface Vessels Operator information

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How much do unmanned surface vessels operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for unmanned surface vessels operator in the United States is $19.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an unmanned surface vessels operator?

Unmanned Surface Vessels (USV) Operators are professionals responsible for remotely controlling and monitoring autonomous or semi-autonomous watercraft that operate on the surface of the water. Their duties include mission planning, real-time navigation, data collection, and ensuring the safety and efficiency of USV operations. USV Operators often work in industries such as maritime research, defense, offshore energy, and environmental monitoring, where they play a key role in conducting surveys, inspections, and various maritime tasks without the need for onboard crew.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an unmanned surface vessels operator?

To thrive as an Unmanned Surface Vessels Operator, you need a solid understanding of marine operations, navigation, and remote piloting, often supported by maritime certifications or relevant technical training. Familiarity with vessel control software, remote sensing systems, and communication tools is essential. Strong problem-solving, situational awareness, and clear communication skills help operators manage complex missions and respond to unexpected challenges. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and effective operation of unmanned surface vessels in diverse maritime environments.

What are some common challenges faced by unmanned surface vessels operators, and how are they typically addressed on the job?

Unmanned Surface Vessels (USV) Operators often encounter challenges related to remote vessel monitoring, adverse weather conditions, and maintaining reliable communication with the vessel. These challenges are typically addressed by using advanced navigation software, redundant communication systems, and adhering to rigorous safety protocols. Operators also work closely with engineering and data analysis teams to troubleshoot issues and ensure mission objectives are met efficiently. Regular training and scenario planning help operators stay prepared for unexpected situations.

What is the difference between Unmanned Surface Vessels Operator vs Unmanned Underwater Vehicles Operator?

AspectUnmanned Surface Vessels OperatorUnmanned Underwater Vehicles Operator
CredentialsCertifications in marine operations, remote vehicle operationCertifications in underwater robotics, marine safety
Work EnvironmentOpen water, maritime vessels, offshore platformsUnderwater, submersibles, subsea facilities
Industry UsageMaritime, defense, offshore oil & gasUnderwater exploration, subsea inspection, defense

Both roles involve remote operation of autonomous vehicles, but Unmanned Surface Vessels Operators focus on surface ships and maritime environments, while Unmanned Underwater Vehicles Operators work underwater. The skills, certifications, and work settings differ based on the vehicle type and operational environment.

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Unmanned Surface Vessels Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Unmanned Surface Vessels Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,702 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Test Engineer Senior Principal

SAIC

San Diego, CA • On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

SAIC rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 226 rated it services

Job description

Job Description
Description
SAIC is seeking a Senior Principal Test Engineer to support Medium Displacement Unmanned Surface Vessel (MDUSV) and related Test and Evaluation activities in San Diego, CA. Must be local to area. Must be able to travel up to 15%.
The Medium Displacement Unmanned Surface Vessel (MDUSV) program involves deployment of autonomous unmanned surface vessels (USV's) to demonstrate an enhanced warfighting capability to disrupt adversary activity in a given maritime region. This program seeks to advance unmanned autonomous USV war fighting capabilities while participating in high-visibility operations such as RIMPAC and Integrated Battle Problems. The MDUSV program is a multi-year effort managed by NIWC-PAC with PMS-406 as the Program Office and Unmanned Surface Vessel Development Squadron-1 (USVDIV1).
In this role, the candidate will be working with the Government IPT Lead and other support staff in the development and execution of directed Test and Evaluation events of Autonomous Systems and unmanned automation on developmental surface vessels. Support will also include supporting technology upgrades, In-Service Engineering to existing platforms, test/planning support to satisfy Program Office and Fleet demand signals.
JOB DUTIES:
  • Skillset and knowledge coordinating personnel and finances for million-dollar programs.
  • Skillset and knowledge to lead autonomy development and associated integration to support unmanned operations.
  • Skillset and knowledge for leading or/and overseeing autonomous test, evaluation, demonstration, data collection, and reporting
  • Communication skills to support NIWC program leadership briefings and reporting requirements.
  • Conducting or executing of tests following established procedures
  • Ship riding as part of testing

Qualifications
REQUIREMENTS:
  • Bachelors degree in an engineering field and fourteen (14) years or more related experience.
  • 5 years experience working with or on Unmanned Surface Vessels (USV)
  • 5 years experience coordinating and supporting at-sea test events
  • 5 years experience with vessel autonomy systems and operations
  • Must be able to obtain a Secret Clearance after start
  • Organizational, time-management, and communication skills.

Target salary range: $160,001 - $200,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.
Overview
SAIC accepts applications on an ongoing basis and there is no deadline.
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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