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Key details
Why this role is notable
A maritime startup hiring technicians to maintain autonomous surface vessels at scale signals that unmanned naval systems are moving from prototype to fielded fleet, with service and sustainment becoming a core operational function.
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, an established European entity supporting regional business development, sales, and operations, and a deployment hub in 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 Fleet Service to assemble, service, and prepare autonomous surface vehicles for deployment in demanding marine environments. You will lead day-to-day assembly and service workflows, troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and software-related issues, and ensure vehicles meet mission-readiness requirements.
We are looking for a skilled, self-directed technician who can plan work independently, solve problems in the field, and train others to meet Saildrone’s standards for quality, safety, and execution. You will also serve as a site lead when a Level 3 technician or lead is not present.
This role is based in Abu Dhabi, UAE supporting a fleet in the region with travel up to 25% of the time to other sites in the region. If based outside of the Middle East travel will be 50-75% depending on needs.
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 Fleet Service Team is responsible for constructing and servicing Saildrone vehicles as well as training and leading others to do the same
THE RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead vehicle assembly and service for Saildrone’s fleet, with a focus on Voyager and cross-training across the Surveyor and Explorer platforms.
- Execute deployments and repairs domestically and internationally, independently leading vehicle haul-outs, launches, and mission-readiness validation.
- Plan and coordinate daily work several days in advance, assigning tasks and managing resources to keep technicians and contractors productive.
- Train and mentor others by coaching contractors, clients, and junior technicians on assembly and service procedures, and signing off on basic training modules.
- Troubleshoot technical issues across mechanical, electrical, and software systems, using appropriate diagnostic tools and methods to resolve field issues.
- Improve assembly and service processes by identifying gaps in work instructions, documenting field-proven solutions, and recommending improvements to procedures and vehicle designs for Engineering review.
- Coordinate site logistics and equipment by requesting parts using specific part numbers, managing heavy equipment such as cranes and forklifts, and maintaining accurate inventory records.
- Maintain service documentation and accountability by recording work accurately in Fleetio, closing work orders after deployment, and validating the quality and completeness of work performed by others.
THE QUALIFICATIONS
- 5+ years of experience in a technical service role involving mechanical and electrical work in a field, shipyard, or heavy industrial environment.
- Demonstrated ability to assemble, service, and deploy complex equipment with minimal supervision, including troubleshooting under pressure in demanding field conditions.
- Strong mechanical and electrical fundamentals, with experience diagnosing electro-mechanical systems and using SSH to interact with vehicle systems.
- Experience leading daily work, coordinating teams, and validating work performed by contractors and junior technicians.
- Proficiency in service documentation, inventory management, and Fleetio work order management.
- Current qualifications as a dinghy operator and telehandler/forklift operator.
- Professional communication skills and the ability to train others, uphold technical standards, and work effectively with clients and colleagues.
- Willingness to travel 50–75% domestically and internationally.
- U.S. Person status and eligibility to obtain a U.S. Department of Defense security clearance preferred.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Advanced electro-mechanical diagnostics in marine environments, including multimeter use, CAN bus analyzers, and basic Linux command-line tools.
- Experience developing technical documentation, improving processes, and delivering hands-on training.
- Foreign language proficiency and additional security clearances.
- Knowledge of basic boat handling and experience operating 30-foot-plus twin-engine powerboats while towing vehicles.
- Willingness to travel to Level 3/4 destinations in accordance with applicable U.S. Department of State guidelines.
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.
Saildrone offers competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits tailored to each global region. Please note that specific benefits listed below may vary or be adapted based on work location, in accordance with applicable local labor standards and statutory market practices.
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.
