Senior Software Engineer - Autonomous Electric Aviation

About PykaAt Pyka, we are dedicated to revolutionizing transportation with safe, sustainable, and cost-effective autonomous electric aviation solutions.Our innovative approach enables us to apply cutting-edge technology across diverse industries that can benefit from autonomous electric aircraft, starting with the most critical and hazardous tasks. We are committed to developing groundbreaking products at scale that enhance safety, reliability, and the performance of our autonomy engine and electric propulsion systems.Our ecosystem includes proprietary flight control software, advanced avionics, high-density motors, motor controllers, batteries, and custom carbon-fiber composite airframes.Currently, we provide autonomous electric aircraft for cargo transportation and agricultural crop protection, serving clients across four continents and achieving industry-first regulatory approvals from the FAA. Our cargo solutions enhance connectivity and expedite delivery networks, facilitating the rapid and reliable transport of essential goods. Our aircraft for crop protection empowers farmers with safer, more precise aerial application methods, significantly reducing environmental impact. Both aircraft are designed for cost-efficiency and ease of deployment while contributing to a decrease in CO2 emissions.Your contributions at Pyka will enhance lives today and propel the future of electric aviation forward.Role OverviewWe are seeking a talented Senior Software Engineer to join our expert team focused on the full stack of aviation robotics. You will tackle a variety of technical challenges in planning, mapping, object detection, simulation, controls, and more. This role involves scoping, planning, and implementing large-scale features for our autonomous aircraft and its ground infrastructure. Ideal candidates will have proven experience in solving complex, high-level problems and a successful track record of delivering impactful results. As a senior member of our engineering team, you will also have opportunities for technical leadership and mentorship.

About PykaAt Pyka, we are dedicated to revolutionizing transportation through autonomous electric aviation, creating a safer, cleaner, and more cost-effective means of transport.Our innovative approach targets industries where autonomous electric aircraft can make a significant impact, focusing first on the most critical and hazardous sectors. We are committed to developing groundbreaking products that are manufactured at scale, while continuously enhancing the safety, reliability, and performance of our autonomy engine and electric propulsion systems.Our technology ecosystem encompasses proprietary flight control software, advanced avionics, high power density motors, sophisticated motor controllers, batteries, and custom carbon-fiber composite airframes.Currently, we provide autonomous electric aircraft for cargo transport and crop protection to customers across four continents, having achieved industry-leading regulatory approvals from the FAA. Our cargo aircraft enhance connectivity and expedite delivery networks, ensuring swift shipment of essential supplies. Additionally, our crop protection solutions empower agricultural service providers with autonomous tools that promote safer, more accurate aerial applications while minimizing environmental impact. Both aircraft are designed for economic efficiency and ease of deployment, significantly reducing CO2 emissions in their respective fields.The work you do at Pyka will profoundly improve lives today while propelling us toward the future of electric aviation.Role OverviewWe are seeking a Senior Embedded Software Engineer who possesses a strong technical curiosity and a fervor for developing the low-level systems that drive autonomous aircraft. In this pivotal role, you will design and maintain the embedded software for our flight computers, auxiliary hardware, and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing systems—critical components that ensure the safe and reliable operation of our aircraft in real-world scenarios. Collaboration with electrical, avionics, systems, and flight control engineers will be essential as you bring new hardware online, develop robust firmware architectures, and enhance our automated HIL testing capabilities. If your experience includes building embedded systems for robotics, vehicles, or similar real-time applications, you will thrive in contributing to the foundational technology that underpins all Pyka aircraft.

Pyka designs and builds autonomous electric aircraft for cargo transport and crop protection. The team creates proprietary flight control software, advanced avionics, high power density motors, custom batteries, and carbon-fiber airframes. With a presence on four continents and historic FAA approvals, Pyka’s technology strengthens supply chains and enables safer, more precise aerial application for farmers, while reducing environmental impact and CO2 emissions. Role overview This Embedded Software Engineer position is based at Pyka’s Alameda headquarters. The focus is on low-level systems that power autonomous aircraft, including embedded software for flight computers and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing systems. The work directly supports the safety and reliability of every flight. What you will do Develop firmware for real-time systems used in autonomous aircraft Participate in hardware bring-up and integration with avionics and flight control systems Build and maintain test systems, including HIL setups Take ownership of critical software components Collaborate closely with electrical, avionics, systems, and flight control engineers Who thrives here Engineers with experience in embedded systems for robotics, vehicles, or other real-time applications Those who value curiosity and enjoy taking on new technical challenges Candidates who may not meet every requirement but are eager to learn and contribute

About PykaAt Pyka, we are committed to transforming transportation through innovative, safe, clean, and cost-effective autonomous electric aviation solutions.Our approach is unique; we leverage our advanced technologies across various industries where autonomous electric aircraft can be beneficial, starting with the most critical and hazardous applications. Our mission is to create groundbreaking products that can be manufactured at scale while enhancing the safety, reliability, and performance of our autonomy engine and electric propulsion systems.We engineer and produce an array of technologies, including proprietary flight control software, avionics, high-density motors, motor controllers, batteries, and custom carbon-fiber composite airframes.Currently, we provide autonomous electric aircraft for cargo transportation and crop protection to clients on four continents and have secured pioneering regulatory approvals from the FAA. Our cargo aircraft enhances connectivity and optimizes express delivery networks, ensuring timely and efficient shipping of essential supplies. Additionally, our crop protection aircraft empowers agricultural professionals and farmers with autonomous tools for safer and more precise aerial applications, significantly reducing environmental impact and operational costs.Join us in making a significant impact on people’s lives and pushing the boundaries of electric aviation further each day.

About PykaAt Pyka, we are pioneering a new era of safe, clean, and cost-effective transportation through autonomous electric aviation technology.Our innovative approach sets us apart as we leverage cutting-edge technology across industries where autonomous electric aircraft can provide immense value, beginning with the most critical and hazardous tasks. We are dedicated to creating transformative products manufactured at scale, while enhancing the safety and reliability of our autonomy engine and electric propulsion systems.Our team designs, develops, and manufactures a comprehensive suite of technologies, including proprietary flight control software, advanced avionics, high power density motors, motor controllers, batteries, and custom carbon-fiber composite airframes.Currently, we provide autonomous electric aircraft for cargo transport and crop protection, serving clients across four continents and achieving industry-first regulatory approvals from the FAA. Our cargo aircraft enhances connectivity and ensures rapid delivery of essential supplies, while our crop protection aircraft offers farmers a safer and more precise autonomous application tool, significantly reducing environmental impact. Both solutions are designed for economic efficiency and ease of deployment, achieving a substantial reduction in CO2 emissions.Join Pyka, where your work will improve lives today and help usher in the future of electric aviation.Role OverviewWe are seeking an enthusiastic Electrical Engineer to become part of our dynamic team. You will engage in both system-level and component-level design and testing across various subsystems.Your responsibilities will evolve as you contribute to diverse hardware projects, which may include:Developing a dual-computer flight system with redundant power distribution for actuators and avionics.Designing high power density motor controllers (30kW - 100kW).Creating battery management systems and contact controllers for redundant battery systems.Implementing air data boards.Engineering electronics for spray systems.Designing various PCBs to facilitate the testing of the aforementioned hardware.We welcome candidates who thrive in a fast-paced environment and are eager to take on new challenges.

Pyka designs and manufactures autonomous electric aircraft, along with the technology that powers them. The team develops proprietary flight control software, avionics, high power density motors, motor controllers, batteries, and custom carbon-fiber composite airframes. Pyka’s aircraft are used for cargo transport and crop protection across four continents, and have achieved industry-first FAA approvals. Their cargo aircraft help connect remote locations and support express delivery networks, while crop protection aircraft provide safer, more precise aerial applications for agriculture. Both lines prioritize easy deployment, cost savings, and reducing CO2 emissions. Role overview This Software Engineer position is based at Pyka’s Alameda headquarters. The focus is on developing the Ground Control application, a real-time system using Qt, QML, and C++. The Ground Control Station is a key part of aircraft operations, demanding careful attention to user experience, strong frontend and backend engineering, and smooth integration with other systems. What you will do Take ownership of major features within the Ground Control platform Build and refine a reliable, user-friendly, and high-performance product that supports real-world flight operations Work on both frontend and backend aspects, ensuring seamless system integration Who will succeed in this role Engineers with experience in complex systems, such as vehicles, robotics, or industrial platforms, who value usability and reliability will find this work central to how users interact with autonomous aircraft.

THE COMPANYSaildrone Inc. is a pioneering maritime defense organization and the leading global authority in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With unparalleled oceanic miles and extensive real-world operational expertise, Saildrone operates active, combat-deployed systems that bolster national security and force projection globally, around the clock. Headquartered in Alameda, CA, with business development and sales operations in Washington, DC, and deployment hubs across Europe and the Middle East, Saildrone is redefining naval operations. By harnessing reliable autonomous operations, cutting-edge edge computing, advanced sensing technologies, and sustainable power solutions, we are at the forefront of maritime security and autonomous innovation. Become a vital part of our fast-paced, mission-driven team.THE POSITIONWe are looking for a Senior Staff Electrical Engineer to join our dynamic Electrical Engineering team. Reporting directly to the Director of Firmware, you will spearhead the definition, design, and validation of sophisticated electrical components and subsystems that are integral to our fleet of advanced USVs. We seek a senior technical leader focused on power storage, distribution, and charge/discharge hardware, along with the integration of various sensors, actuators, and computing devices essential for the autonomous navigation of our vessels at sea.THE TEAMThe Electrical Engineering team is tasked with the architecture, design, and maintenance of power systems, electronics, and embedded hardware across Saildrone’s unmanned surface vehicles. Our focus is on delivering resilient, high-performance electrical platforms that enable persistent maritime domain awareness within a national security and defense context.THE RESPONSIBILITIESElectrical Architecture: Lead the design, evolution, and validation of electrical systems to meet rigorous performance and safety standards for extended maritime operations.Technical Ownership: Define the strategic direction for power distribution, energy storage, and embedded computing subsystems, ensuring a robust foundation for all autonomous platforms.Hardware Delivery: Oversee the complete development cycle of intricate PCBAs—from schematic capture to layout in Altium 365—balancing high-power demands with precision mixed-signal integrity.Validation Strategy: Develop and implement thorough testing and quality assurance strategies to guarantee system reliability and performance.

About PykaAt Pyka, we are committed to transforming transportation through safe, clean, and cost-effective autonomous electric aviation solutions. Our innovative approach sets us apart, as we leverage cutting-edge technologies across industries that can benefit from autonomous electric aircraft, starting with critical and high-value applications.We are dedicated to designing, developing, and manufacturing a comprehensive ecosystem of technologies, including proprietary flight control software, avionics, high power density motors, motor controllers, batteries, and custom carbon-fiber composite airframes. This commitment allows us to create groundbreaking products that prioritize safety, reliability, and efficiency.Currently, our autonomous electric aircraft are revolutionizing cargo transport and crop protection for clients across four continents, having received industry-first regulatory approvals from the FAA. Our solutions enhance supply chain connectivity and agricultural precision, significantly reducing environmental impacts while ensuring operational efficiency.Joining Pyka means contributing to advancements that improve lives today and bring the future of electric aviation closer every day.Role OverviewWe are seeking a Senior Motor Control Engineer to become a vital member of our passionate engineering team. In this pivotal role, you will be entrusted with system-level and component-level design and testing across a diverse array of subsystems, engaging in various hardware projects.Your responsibilities will encompass:Design and development of high power density motor controllers (30kW to 100kW)Integration of electronics for airplane spray and pump systemsDevelopment of air data boardsCreation of various PCBs to facilitate testing of hardware

Saildrone Inc. seeks a Senior Electrical Engineer to design and develop electrical systems for unmanned surface vehicles. The position is based in Alameda, California. Role overview This role focuses on building and improving the electrical systems that power Saildrone's ocean data platforms. The work directly supports innovative methods for collecting information from the marine environment. Key responsibilities Design electrical systems for unmanned surface vehicles Develop solutions to support new ways of gathering ocean data Location This position is located in Alameda, California, United States.

THE COMPANYSaildrone Inc. is a pioneering maritime defense organization and the foremost authority in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With unparalleled ocean miles and extensive real-world operational experience, Saildrone actively deploys combat-ready systems that bolster national security and strategic force projection globally, operating around the clock, every day of the year.Our manufacturing and R&D headquarters are situated in Alameda, CA, with business development and sales operations based in Washington, DC, and deployment centers across Europe and the Middle East. By integrating proven autonomous operations, edge computing, advanced sensing, and renewable energy solutions, Saildrone is redefining the operational capabilities of the Navy of tomorrow. Become part of a dynamic, mission-focused team that stands at the forefront of maritime security and autonomous technological innovation.THE POSITIONSaildrone is in search of a Senior Robotics Software Engineer to join our Core Vehicle Systems team. In this pivotal role, you will be instrumental in integrating cutting-edge sensors and hardware subsystems into our autonomous marine vessels while enhancing the onboard software responsible for navigation, telemetry, and autonomy at sea. We are looking for a technical leader who excels in transforming ambiguity into clarity, independently driving execution in a fast-paced setting, and elevating software quality for systems designed to perform reliably in the harshest maritime conditions for extended periods.This position requires onsite presence in Alameda, CA in the Bay Area three days per week as part of our hybrid working model. Remote work is not an option.THE TEAMThe Robotics Software Engineering team is charged with developing the software systems that empower Saildrone’s autonomous fleet to navigate the most isolated maritime environments on the planet. We are committed to delivering robust and scalable vehicle systems software that supports global maritime domain awareness within a national security and defense framework.THE RESPONSIBILITIESDesign, develop, and maintain core C++ onboard software systems to ensure reliable navigation, telemetry, actuator control, and power system interfaces for long-duration deployments.Integrate new sensors and hardware subsystems to enhance vehicle capabilities, ensuring precise data acquisition, validation, and performance in constrained computing environments.Architect and implement resilient interfaces between vehicle software, embedded firmware, and hardware components.Manage telemetry systems, including data libraries and satellite communications, ensuring seamless operation.

About PykaAt Pyka, we are on a mission to revolutionize transportation by delivering safe, clean, and cost-effective solutions through autonomous electric aviation.Our unique approach involves deploying our cutting-edge technologies across various industries that benefit from autonomous electric aircraft, starting with the most critical and hazardous tasks. We are committed to manufacturing groundbreaking products at scale while enhancing the safety, reliability, and performance of our autonomy engine and electric propulsion systems.Our innovative ecosystem includes proprietary flight control software, advanced avionics, high power density motors, sophisticated motor controllers, energy-efficient batteries, and custom carbon-fiber composite airframes.Currently, we provide autonomous electric aircraft for cargo transport and crop protection to clients across four continents and have achieved pioneering regulatory approvals from the FAA. Our cargo aircraft facilitates remote connectivity and enhances delivery networks, ensuring the swift transport of essential supplies. In agriculture, our crop protection aircraft serves as an autonomous tool, making aerial applications safer, more precise, and environmentally friendly. Both aircraft are designed for cost-effective operation, ease of deployment, and significantly lower CO2 emissions in their respective sectors.Your work at Pyka will enhance lives today while propelling the future of electric aviation forward.Role OverviewWe are seeking a passionate Mechanical Design Engineer to join our dynamic team of engineers. In this role, you will be responsible for overseeing a wide range of mechanical components and subsystems throughout the entire lifecycle, from initial concept to serial production. Our Mechanical Engineering team collaborates closely with Manufacturing Engineers, Flight Test Engineers, and fellow Mechanical Engineers to design, test, and refine mechanical components and assemblies. This position is suited for those ready to tackle significant engineering challenges—our team manages the same quantity of hardware as teams ten times larger. Join us for a fast-paced environment offering immense opportunities for ownership, contribution, professional growth, and development.

THE COMPANYSaildrone Inc. stands at the forefront of maritime defense as a global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With unmatched ocean miles and operational expertise, Saildrone actively deploys systems that bolster national security and force projection worldwide, 24/7/365.Our headquarters for manufacturing and R&D are located in the vibrant city of Alameda, CA, complemented by business development and sales operations in Washington, DC, and deployment hubs across Europe and the Middle East. By integrating proven autonomous operations, edge computing, advanced sensing technologies, and renewable energy, Saildrone is redefining the operational capabilities of the Navy of the future. Join us in a dynamic, mission-driven environment where innovation in maritime security thrives.THE POSITIONWe are on the lookout for a Senior Manager, Vehicle Control Software to join our Software Engineering team. In this pivotal role, you will report directly to the Director of Software Engineering, taking charge of the robotics software stack that drives our autonomous surface vehicles. You will ensure that our roadmap execution aligns seamlessly with both technical and business objectives. We seek a technical leader who excels in clarifying ambiguity while balancing hands-on expertise with team leadership in a fast-paced setting. This role initially focuses on individual contributions to foster deep system familiarity, progressing towards a balanced mix of technical input and team leadership.This position requires onsite presence in Alameda, CA, three days a week as part of our hybrid model. Remote work is not an option.THE TEAMThe Robotics Software Engineering team is tasked with creating the software systems that empower Saildrone’s autonomous fleet to function in the most isolated maritime environments on Earth. Our mission centers on delivering robust and scalable vehicle systems software to enhance global maritime domain awareness, operating within a national security and defense framework.THE RESPONSIBILITIESLead the development of the vehicle systems software stack to ensure reliable, high-performance capabilities meet quality, safety, and customer standards.Actively contribute to architecture and design reviews while managing a team of engineers to ensure effective roadmap execution.Oversee the development and implementation of the vehicle systems roadmap, including planning, resource allocation, and execution against defined business goals.

About PykaAt Pyka, we are on a mission to revolutionize transportation by developing safe, eco-friendly, and cost-efficient autonomous electric aviation solutions.Our unique approach allows us to apply our innovative technologies across various industries, focusing initially on the most valuable and hazardous tasks. This strategy enables us to create groundbreaking products that are manufactured at scale, consistently enhancing the safety, reliability, and capabilities of our autonomous systems and electric propulsion technologies.We specialize in designing, developing, and manufacturing a comprehensive ecosystem of advanced technologies, including proprietary flight control software, avionics, high-density motors, motor controllers, batteries, and custom carbon-fiber composite airframes.Currently, we provide autonomous electric aircraft for cargo transport and crop protection to customers on four continents and have achieved industry-first regulatory approvals from the FAA. Our cargo aircraft enhances connectivity and efficiency in express delivery networks, while our crop protection aircraft offers a safer and more precise solution for agricultural services, significantly reducing environmental impact. Both aircraft types are economical and easy to deploy, resulting in lower CO2 emissions in their respective fields.Your contributions at Pyka will enhance lives today and advance the future of electric aviation.Role OverviewWe are seeking an exceptionally talented Senior Mechanical Engineer to join our dynamic cargo aircraft team. In this pivotal role, you will spearhead the mechanical design and integration of crucial aircraft components. Your responsibilities will encompass detailed CAD design, structural analysis, prototyping, and testing, all while working collaboratively with cross-functional engineering teams.

Role overview Pyka seeks a Senior Software Engineer to develop and support Ground Control Station software at its Alameda headquarters. The position focuses on building applications that enable autonomous aircraft systems, using Qt, C++, and QML. What you will do Design, implement, and maintain software for ground control stations Collaborate with engineers and cross-functional teams to deliver solutions for autonomous aviation Apply technical expertise in Qt, C++, and QML throughout the development cycle Team environment The engineering team at Pyka values collaboration and practical problem solving. Team members work together to advance aviation technology and support each other's growth.

Join Jitterbit, a leading integration platform, as a Senior Software Engineer. In this pivotal role, you'll design, develop, and implement innovative software solutions that enhance our integration capabilities. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality products that meet and exceed customer expectations. Your expertise will drive the evolution of our technology stack and contribute to our mission of simplifying integration for businesses worldwide.

THE COMPANYSaildrone is a pioneering maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With unparalleled ocean miles and extensive operational experience, Saildrone operates combat-deployed systems that support national security and force projection worldwide, 24/7/365.Our manufacturing and R&D headquarters are located in Alameda, CA, complemented by business development and sales operations in Washington, DC, and deployment hubs across Europe and the Middle East. By leveraging proven autonomous operations, edge computing, advanced sensing technologies, and sustainable power solutions, Saildrone is redefining the future operations of naval forces. Become part of a dynamic, mission-driven team at the forefront of maritime security and autonomous innovation.THE POSITIONWe are looking for a Staff Embedded Software Engineer to join our Firmware team. Reporting directly to the Director of Firmware Engineering, you will lead the definition, design, and validation of firmware and embedded systems that power our fleet of advanced USVs. This role demands a seasoned technical leader focused on real-time operating systems, low-level drivers, and power-efficient edge computing, while integrating a diverse array of sensors, actuators, and communication devices essential for autonomous navigation at sea.THE TEAMThe Firmware team is tasked with the architecture, development, and maintenance of the embedded software and real-time control systems that drive Saildrone’s Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs). We create resilient, high-performance devices that are vital to our fleet's mission, ensuring reliable operations in some of the world's most challenging environments.THE RESPONSIBILITIESEmbedded Architecture: Spearhead the design, implementation, and validation of embedded software systems to meet rigorous performance and safety requirements for long-duration missions.Technical Ownership: Own the strategic direction for device architecture, hardware abstraction layers, and embedded computing subsystems, ensuring a strong foundation for all autonomous platforms.Firmware Delivery: Lead the end-to-end development of mission-critical firmware targeting RTOS-based or bare-metal applications, balancing real-time constraints with system-level reliability.

Join the Pyka TeamAt Pyka, we are dedicated to revolutionizing the transportation landscape through safe, clean, and cost-effective autonomous electric aviation.We are pioneering innovative approaches by deploying our technology across various industries that can benefit from autonomous electric aircraft, starting with the most critical and high-risk tasks. Our mission is to deliver groundbreaking products manufactured at scale, while honing the safety, reliability, and performance of our autonomy engine and electric propulsion systems.Our expertise encompasses a complete ecosystem of technologies, including proprietary flight control software, advanced avionics, high power density motors, motor controllers, batteries, and custom carbon-fiber composite airframes.Currently, we are providing autonomous electric aircraft for cargo transport and agricultural crop protection to clients across four continents, having achieved industry-first regulatory approvals from the FAA. Our cargo aircraft enhance express delivery networks and ensure rapid shipping of essential supplies to underserved areas, while our crop protection aircraft offers a safer, more precise autonomous solution for aerial applications, minimizing environmental impact. Both vehicle types are designed for economic efficiency, ease of deployment, and significant reductions in CO2 emissions.Your contributions at Pyka will enhance lives today and bring us closer to the future of electric aviation.Position SummaryWe are seeking a Flight Test Operator to validate and scale the operations of our cutting-edge autonomous aircraft. In this role, you will rigorously evaluate new hardware and software features to ensure the successful deployment of Pyka’s aircraft in various customer operations worldwide. Your focus will be on assessing the continuous operation of our aircraft and ground support infrastructure.This is a multidisciplinary position requiring collaboration with various internal teams, making strong written and verbal communication skills essential. Your efforts will be pivotal in Pyka’s mission to deliver the safest products to our customers. Primary operations will be conducted at our local California test sites, with opportunities to support international client deployments as needed.

ABOUT SAILDRONESaildrone is a pioneering maritime defense company, recognized globally as the leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With unparalleled operational experience and more ocean miles traversed than any other USV manufacturer or operator, Saildrone actively deploys combat-ready systems that support national security and force projection worldwide, operating 24/7/365.Located in Alameda, CA, Saildrone's manufacturing and R&D headquarters drive innovation, with business development and sales operations based in Washington, DC, and deployment hubs strategically positioned in Europe and the Middle East. By merging proven autonomous operations, cutting-edge edge computing, advanced sensing technologies, and renewable energy sources, Saildrone is redefining the operational capabilities of the Navy for the future. Join a dynamic, mission-focused team that is leading the charge in maritime security and autonomous advancements.ROLE OVERVIEWWe are in search of a Staff Machine Learning Engineer to join our innovative team. Reporting to the Engineering Manager of Machine Learning, you will be integral in designing, deploying, and scaling machine learning systems that foster autonomy and deliver real-time intelligence across Saildrone’s global fleet. You will enhance Saildrone’s model portfolio and ensure robust, high-performance inference on edge hardware within complex maritime environments. We seek a technical leader who excels in navigating ambiguity, drives holistic project execution, and assumes ownership of production ML systems in mission-critical scenarios.This position requires onsite presence in Alameda, CA three days a week as part of our hybrid work model. Remote work is not an option.TEAM INSIGHTThe Machine Learning team is tasked with developing and deploying models that enhance perception, autonomy, and intelligence across Saildrone’s fleet of autonomous surface vehicles. Our focus is on constructing scalable, high-performance ML systems that convert multimodal sensor data into actionable insights, facilitating continuous maritime awareness in national security and defense contexts.KEY RESPONSIBILITIESProduction & Mission Impact: Create and implement production-grade ML models for real-time perception to identify, classify, and track high-value targets, enabling USVs to function continuously in challenging and hostile maritime environments.Edge Architecture & Autonomy: Oversee the complete ML lifecycle architecture, ensuring model reliability on NVIDIA Jetson/AGX platforms and advancing autonomous decision-making processes.

ABOUT SAILDRONESaildrone Inc. is a pioneering maritime defense company, recognized globally as a leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). Our cutting-edge technology and extensive operational experience position us uniquely in the maritime sector, supporting national security and force projection 24/7, 365 days a year.Based in Alameda, California, our manufacturing and R&D facilities drive innovation, with additional operations in Washington, D.C., and deployment hubs across Europe and the Middle East. We are transforming the future of naval operations through our advanced autonomous systems, edge computing, and renewable technologies. Join our dedicated team at the forefront of maritime security and innovation.POSITION OVERVIEWWe are on the lookout for a Senior Systems Engineer to enhance our Engineering team. Reporting directly to the VP of Hardware, you will spearhead the systems engineering function, ensuring that hardware, software, firmware, and mission systems work seamlessly as a unified, mission-ready platform. Your contributions will significantly influence vehicle performance, reliability, and the effective deployment of our autonomous systems at sea. We seek a technical leader who embodies systems-level rigor, clarifies complex architectures, and drives disciplined execution across cross-functional teams in dynamic, mission-critical settings. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in systems engineering and program execution, particularly within the defense, aerospace, or maritime sectors.TEAM STRUCTUREThe Systems Engineering team plays a pivotal role in leading key R&D initiatives, establishing precise system-level requirements and interfaces from the outset, ensuring technical progress throughout, and leading the testing phase to validate system performance against defined metrics. Collaboration with Hardware, Firmware, Security, Software, and Project Management teams is crucial to delivering robust, scalable, and high-performing systems.KEY RESPONSIBILITIESArchitectural Excellence: Define and uphold system architectures and interface control documents (ICDs) to ensure high platform reliability and performance across all systems.

THE COMPANYSaildrone Inc. is a pioneering maritime defense firm and the leading global provider of autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With unparalleled operational experience and extensive ocean miles, Saildrone’s combat-deployed systems play a crucial role in supporting national security and force projection worldwide, operating 24/7/365.Headquartered in Alameda, CA, Saildrone also has business development and sales operations in Washington, DC, along with deployment hubs across Europe and the Middle East. By harnessing advanced technologies such as autonomous operations, edge computing, and renewable energy, Saildrone is redefining the future of naval operations. Join a dynamic, mission-oriented team at the forefront of maritime security and autonomous innovation.THE POSITIONWe are seeking a Senior Manager of Mechanical Engineering to join our Hardware Engineering team. Reporting directly to the Head of Hardware Engineering, you will be responsible for leading the mechanical design and implementation of critical systems throughout Saildrone’s autonomous fleet. Your contributions will significantly influence vehicle reliability, manufacturability, and performance during long-duration ocean missions.We are looking for a seasoned technical leader who blends extensive mechanical engineering knowledge with a disciplined approach to execution, clarifying complex requirements, and fostering teams that deliver scalable, production-ready systems.THE TEAMThe Mechanical Engineering team is tasked with designing, integrating, and sustaining electro-mechanical systems for Saildrone’s unmanned surface vehicles. Our goal is to provide robust, manufacturable hardware that functions reliably in extreme maritime conditions, enabling continuous maritime domain awareness in national defense.THE RESPONSIBILITIESMechanical System Design: Spearhead the design of electro-mechanical sub-assemblies including actuation (servos), propulsion, structures (composites), and environmental enclosures to achieve performance, reliability, and maritime survival objectives.BOM & Configuration Management: Oversee the complete vehicle Bill of Materials for all sensor configurations, ensuring precision in part numbering, revision control, and assembly detailing.Cross-Functional Integration: Collaborate closely with Electrical, Firmware, and NPI teams to coordinate on PCBA enclosures, thermal management paths, and sensor placements to ensure cohesive system functionality.