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Senior Manager, Mechanical Engineering

Saildrone Inc.Alameda, California, United States
On-site Full-time $189K/yr - $243K/yr

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Experience Level

Senior Level Manager

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONSMaster's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.10+ years of experience in mechanical engineering; experience in maritime or defense sectors is highly desirable. Proven track record in leading mechanical design projects from concept to production. Strong understanding of materials and fabrication processes used in marine applications. Exceptional problem-solving skills and attention to detail. Ability to work collaboratively across multiple disciplines and communicate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders.

About the job

THE COMPANY

Saildrone 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 POSITION

We 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 TEAM

The 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 RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Mechanical 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.

About Saildrone Inc.

Saildrone Inc. is at the forefront of maritime defense technology, specializing in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) that support national security and operational readiness. With ongoing innovations and a commitment to excellence, Saildrone is shaping the maritime landscape of the future.

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