About the job
THE COMPANY
Saildrone 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 POSITION
Saildrone 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 TEAM
The 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 RESPONSIBILITIES
- Design, 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.

