Technical Operations Engineer

About Saildrone

The position and team

Responsibilities

• Resolve complex hardware, software, and networking issues using Linux command-line tools, telemetry, and shell scripting.
• Own assigned vehicles’ reliability, performance indicators and objectives, and operational readiness.
• Lead root-cause analysis for field failures and drive corrective actions across design, process, and tooling.
• Collaborate with Engineering design teams on system architecture feedback and system integration testing.
• Deploy globally, up to 30% travel, for vehicle preparation, troubleshooting, and mission execution; oversee third-party contractors.
• Join on-call rotations for real-time troubleshooting of high-priority fleet incidents.
• Develop work instructions, process standards, and technical training to scale operations.
• Maintain records and inventories while following and improving safety and work standards.

Qualifications

• An engineering bachelor’s degree is preferred; suggested disciplines include Electrical, Mechanical, Systems, Robotics, Software, Aerospace, or a related technical field.
• At least 2 years supporting complex embedded systems, robotics, or autonomous hardware in production or field environments.
• Independently interpret electrical diagrams/schematics and mechanical drawings for repairs and modifications.
• Hands-on experience with CAN, RS-485, RS-232, SPI, I2C, and TCP/IP protocols.
• Comfort with Linux and shell scripts for diagnostic tasks; API experience is a plus.
• Communicate complex technical failures clearly to cross-functional partners and executive leadership.

Physical and travel requirements

• Lift or move up to 30 lbs and remain physically active, including bending, kneeling, and standing throughout a full shift.
• Have manual dexterity and visual acuity for safe power-tool operation and precision assembly and repairs.
• Work in confined spaces, at heights, and outdoors in variable weather, including heat, cold, and wind.
• Work around industrial materials and follow PPE requirements, including respirators and eye/ear protection as needed.
• Travel domestically and internationally up to 30% of the time; the source text is truncated during an additional travel-related qualification.