Job Description

About Us

Saildrone builds autonomous systems that dominate the world’s oceans

With more than 2 million nautical miles sailed and 50,000 days at sea, Saildrone has earned the trust of governments worldwide. Our unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) deliver continuous, real-time intelligence in the toughest oceans on Earth—giving our partners faster awareness, stronger security, and a decisive edge at sea.

Our USVs are long-range, extreme-endurance platforms powered by advanced sensors and proprietary AI - they have been designed to operate where no crewed vessel can. They collect critical insights above and below the surface to support border security, law enforcement, naval operations, and undersea infrastructure protection.

Headquartered in Alameda, CA, with offices in Washington, DC, and global deployment hubs, Saildrone operates missions worldwide. Join a fast-moving, mission-driven team at the intersection of AI, autonomy, and defense technology—where data turns into intelligence, and intelligence drives action.

The Role

Working as part of our Production and R&D team, you will use your demonstrated skills and experience in Composites manufacturing processes to make parts and build uncrewed surface vehicles. You will join the team working from our well-equipped facilities in Alameda, California. Willingness to travel within the US and abroad occasionally is welcomed but not required.

Required Skills and Experience

• Pre-Preg, Infusion, Wet/Vacuum Bag Lamination Techniques.
• Competence in mixing and use of Epoxy resins, fairing compounds, and industry-standard paints.
• Ability to read, interpret and understand technical drawings.
• Ability to work comfortably alone or in a team environment.
• Proficiency in the use of hand and power tools.
• Have a minimum 1+ years of relevant working experience.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.

Desired Skills and Experience

• Boatbuilding / Shipwright
• Competence in Moldmaking and Toolmaking.
• Carpentry.
• Auto Bodywork/Painting
• Vinyl Wrapping
• CNC Ply Cutter operations.
• Certified Rigger Training.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds on a regular basis
• Comfortable working in physically demanding environments, including bending, kneeling, crouching, reaching, and standing for extended periods of time.

• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination required for use of tools, machinery, and precision assembly.

• Ability to operate and control a variety of power tools (including sanders, drills, impact drivers, routers, and similar equipment) safely and effectively for extended periods (with proper Personal Protective Equipment provided).

• Capacity to work in varied environments such as confined spaces, elevated platforms, and around water.

• Tolerance for exposure to dust, fumes, adhesives, fiberglass, and other boatbuilding materials (with proper PPE provided).

• Visual acuity to read blueprints, measure accurately, and perform detailed craftsmanship.

• Ability to wear and work safely with required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including respirators, gloves, and eye/ear protection.

Location : This position is in Alameda, CA. Our waterfront office offers beautiful views of San Francisco Bay in always sunny Alameda.

All employees are required to provide proof of authorization to work in the U.S. within their first 3 days of work. Please note that the Company does not sponsor employees for work visas or permanent resident cards to work in the U.S. If you need sponsorship for a work visa or green card, you will not be qualified for employment with Saildrone.

Benefits :

• Paid time off, including vacation, bereavement, jury duty, sick time and parental leave
• Comprehensive and competitive medical, dental and vision plans, and HSA with employer matching.
• Company sponsored life insurance
• Stock Options
• Annual stipend for continued learning and development
• Quarterly company BBQs at our Alameda HQ (bring your friends and family!)
• Free Bay Area Public Transportation via AlamedaTMA with the BayPass Clipper Card

A reasonable estimate of the current range is $30.24 - $41.88 hourly.

Catch up on the latest news about us:

Individual compensation packages are based on geographic location, scope of the role, relevant experience, and the ability to deal with complexity and problem solve within our organization, among other factors.

We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Any unsolicited resumes/candidate profiles submitted through our website or to personal email accounts of employees of Saildrone are considered property of Saildrone and are not subject to payment of agency fees.

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