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Uuv Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Uncrewed Vessel Operator

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$45K - $90K/yr

... UUV), and Underwater Gliders. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for innovation, Lynker is leading the way in providing operational, logistical, and training support for Uncrewed Systems.

Showing results 21-23

Uuv information

See Virginia salary details

$60K

$146K

$196.3K

How much do uuv jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for uuv in Virginia is $146,047.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $124,900.00 and $166,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a UUV?

UUVs, or Unmanned Underwater Vehicles, are robotic devices designed to operate underwater without a human crew onboard. They are commonly used for tasks such as underwater exploration, surveillance, research, and mapping of the ocean floor. UUVs can be remotely operated (ROVs) or fully autonomous (AUVs), allowing them to perform complex missions in environments that are hazardous or inaccessible to humans. They play a significant role in industries like defense, scientific research, and offshore oil and gas exploration.

What does a UUV do?

A UUV (Unmanned Underwater Vehicle) job involves the operation, maintenance, and development of autonomous or remotely operated underwater vehicles. These roles are common in industries such as defense, marine research, and offshore energy. Responsibilities can include piloting, data collection, troubleshooting, and integrating new technologies. Strong technical skills in robotics, electronics, and hydrodynamics are often required.

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

To thrive as a UAV Operator, you need proficiency in remote piloting, navigation, and a solid understanding of aeronautical regulations, often supported by a relevant license or certification. Familiarity with UAV control systems, mission planning software, and GPS technology is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication help operators manage flight safety and coordinate with teams. These skills ensure safe UAV operation, regulatory compliance, and successful mission outcomes.

What is the difference between Uuv vs ROV Operator?

AspectUuvROV Operator
Required CertificationsRemote piloting, vehicle operation, sometimes military or specialized certificationsROV-specific certifications, underwater navigation, safety training
Work EnvironmentAutonomous underwater vehicles, often in research, military, or exploration settingsRemotely operated underwater vehicles, in industrial, research, or maintenance contexts
Industry UsageResearch, military, exploration, environmental monitoringOil & gas, underwater construction, scientific research

Uuvs (Unmanned Underwater Vehicles) are autonomous or remotely operated systems used mainly for exploration and research, while ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) operators control underwater robots for industrial or scientific tasks. Both roles require specialized training, but Uuv operators focus more on vehicle programming and autonomy, whereas ROV operators handle real-time control and maintenance.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Uuv jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Uuv job openings:

Infographic showing various Uuv job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $146,047 per year, or $70.2 per hour.

Uncrewed Vessel Operator

Leesburg, VA • On-site

Lynker Corporation
Scientific Research and Development Services • 201 - 500 employees

$45K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Overview
The mission of Lynker Corporation is to deliver innovative solutions to support global environmental security and economic prosperity as a trusted partner to governments, communities, and industry. With the growing demand for offshore energy expansion, marine natural resource management, and coastal resilience to environmental threats, there has been a need for more advanced and efficient hydrographic mapping systems. Lynker leverages cutting-edge technologies and scientific expertise to support the expansion of mapping across the US Exclusive Economic Zone using Uncrewed Systems (UxS), which include Uncrewed Surface Vehicles (USV), Uncrewed Underwater Vehicles (UUV), and Underwater Gliders. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for innovation, Lynker is leading the way in providing operational, logistical, and training support for Uncrewed Systems.
We are seeking individuals who can help our team support our contract with NOAA Uncrewed Marine Systems Division (UMSD) and other partners in UxS Industry. The Uncrewed Systems Operator must have experience operating hydrographic survey or oceanographic research technologies. This position involves travelling for long durations at sea aboard vessels or to Remote Operations Centers (ROC). A strong background in marine science, information technology, or mechanical engineering is desirable. If you are interested in joining a dynamic team and working with advanced marine technologies, please review the Responsibilities, Qualifications, and Requirements for this position.
This position is contingent upon contract award.
Responsibilities
Duties of the Uncrewed Vessel Operator will include, but not be limited to, the following:
• The primary duty of a UxS Operator is to stand pilot watches with the responsibility of maintaining the safety of the public and of the vessel while at sea under semi-autonomous operations.
• 8-12hr night or day watches based in a regional Remote Operating Center, or from a host vessel at sea
• Ensure the safety of navigation and situational awareness of the vehicle during operations
• Additional duties include monitoring vessel status feedback, telemetry stability and configuration, and basic data acquisition control
• Operators are responsible for troubleshooting technical and software issues, and relaying that information to the watch supervisor.
• Proper record keeping during watches and in diagnostic scenarios
Qualifications
The Uncrewed Vessel Operator selected should have the following:
• Associates Degree or higher in at least one of the following: Marine Technology, Marine Science, Mechanical Engineering, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering
• Support operations at sea on board NOAA vessels, or at a regional remote operation center, for up to 30 consecutive days at a time
• Ability to lift >45 lb. objects, climb ladders, and work in confined spaces.
• Ability to collaborate and communicate effectively in an interagency atmosphere.
• Yearly travel 50% or more
The Ideal Uncrewed Vessel Operator will have the Following:
• Experience operating USVs, UUVs, or Underwater Gliders is desired.
• Experience in boat handling and seamanship: licensed boater or captain is desired.
• Experience implementing COLREGs into the safety of navigation of UxS.
• Experience with operating satellite, cellular, and RF telemetry systems
• Experience with maritime situational awareness using AIS,FLIR, ECDIS, LiDAR, and RADAR.
• Experience with data acquisition using Multibeam Sonars, Side Scan Sonars, and acoustic systems is desired.
• Experience with marine positioning systems using GNSS, INS/IMU, or USBL.
About Lynker
Lynker is a growing, employee owned, small business, specializing in professional, scientific and technical services. Our continually expanding team combines scientific expertise with mature, results-driven processes and tools to achieve technically sound, cost effective solutions in hydrology/water sciences, geospatial analysis, information technology, resource management, conservation, and management and business process improvement.
We focus on putting the right people in the right place to be effective. And having the right people is critical for success. Our streamlined organization enables and empowers our talented professionals to tackle our customers' scientific and technical priorities - creatively and effectively.
Lynker offers a team-oriented work environment, and the opportunity to work in a culture of exceptionally skilled and diverse professionals who embrace sound science and creative solutions. Lynker's benefits include the following:
  • Comprehensive healthcare for the employee at no monthly cost
  • Healthcare benefit covers medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision
  • Personal Time Off (PTO) Policy plus paid holidays
  • Highly competitive compensation plan regularly calibrated against industry and location benchmarks
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company-matching
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) - we're all company owners!
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Employee assistance program (EAP)
  • Short- and long-term disability insurance
  • Life and accident insurance
  • Tuition assistance/Training/Workforce improvement reimbursement per year
  • Spot bonuses for exceptional performance
  • Annual Employee Recognition Awards with bonuses
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Free centralized, self-directed Learning Management System to learn at your own pace
  • Personalized career growth plans for every employee

Lynker is an equal opportunity employer and makes all employment decisions based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected status under federal, state, or local laws.
Fraud Alert: Recruitment Scam Warning: Lynker has been made aware of fraudulent individuals posing as Lynker recruiters and offering fake job opportunities. All legitimate Lynker job postings are listed on our official careers page. Communication from Lynker recruiters will come from an official @lynker.com email address.