THE COMPANY
Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV manufacturer or operator, Saildrone maintains active, combat-deployed systems supporting national security and force projection around the world, 24/7/365.
Saildrone’s manufacturing and R&D headquarters are located in Alameda, CA, with business development and sales operations in Washington, DC, and deployment hubs in Europe and the Middle East. By combining proven autonomous operations, edge computing, advanced sensing, renewable power, and the most advanced and robust unmanned surface technology on the planet, Saildrone is shaping how the Navy of the future operates. Join a fast-moving, mission-driven team at the forefront of maritime security and autonomous innovation.
THE POSITION
Saildrone is seeking a Senior Manufacturing Systems Integration & Test Engineer to join our Manufacturing Engineering team. Reporting directly to the Senior Manager - Manufacturing Engineering, you will play a critical role in developing and executing comprehensive testing protocols to support Saildrone production, overseeing drone production validation, configuration, and testing in preparation for sea trials. We are looking for a technical expert who functions as both the technical lead and the subject matter expert for integration procedures, and brings structure to complex system interactions to transform them into logical, step-by-step troubleshooting guides.
THE TEAM
The Manufacturing Engineering team is responsible for the integration, validation, and production readiness of Saildrone drones and payload systems. We are focused on delivering scalable, repeatable, and robust manufacturing test solutions that enable high-quality autonomous systems deployments to ensure optimal throughput and scalability, operating in a national security and defense environment.
THE RESPONSIBILITIES
- Perform definition, documentation, and execution of test specifications for device-level components (including PCBs and sensors) and full-drone integration and validation workflows.
- Be accountable for "End-of-Line" (EOL) testing protocols and production validation strategies to ensure every drone meets established safety and performance standards prior to sea trials.
- Lead complex systems integration, troubleshooting, and Root Cause Analysis (RCA) investigations into "Unknown-Unknown" failures that go beyond standard repair procedures.
- Work closely with hardware and software engineering teams to drive Design for Test (DfT) capabilities, ensuring the drone has the necessary hooks for efficient manufacturing and seamless updates after engineering changes.
- Develop and maintain Diagnostic Decision Trees, troubleshooting flowcharts, and test procedures, transforming complex system interactions into logical, step-by-step guides for the production team to isolate common failures.
- Monitor manufacturing yield trends to identify systemic design or process flaws, and analyze data from the "dead ends" of decision trees where technicians couldn't find a fix to continuously update diagnostic logic and improve repairability.
- Carry out day-to-day work using Python or LabVIEW to design, automate, and maintain robust test scripts within a Linux environment.
- Provide timely updates, technical guidance, and status updates to cross-functional stakeholders to support production schedules and operational readiness.
- Perform all responsibilities in accordance with Saildrone safety expectations, quality standards, and engineering excellence.
THE QUALIFICATIONS
- BS degree in Aerospace, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering.
- 5+ years of experience in systems integration, robotics, aerospace manufacturing, or advanced manufacturing environments.
- Demonstrated proficiency in validating power and hardware architectures using power supplies, electronic loads, DAQs, oscilloscopes, Logic Analyzers, and RF test equipment.
- Proven ability to write robust automated test scripts in Python or LabVIEW within a Linux environment.
- Ability to clearly communicate complex system interactions, technical information, and diagnostic logic to manufacturing technicians, peers, and cross-functional engineering teams.
- Working knowledge of diagnostic workflows, troubleshooting architecture, and manufacturing validation processes for complex electromechanical systems.
- Familiarity with the unique challenges of integrating and testing RF systems, satellite communications, or marine sensor payloads is preferred.
- Experience leveraging AI-assisted programming to streamline and accelerate code generation/test automation workflows is highly desired.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Physical Strength & Agility: Ability to lift/move up to 50 lbs and maintain physical activity (bending, kneeling, standing) throughout a full shift.
- Manual Precision: High manual dexterity and visual acuity for the safe, prolonged operation of tools and precision testing equipment.
- Environmental Adaptability: Comfort working in challenging settings, including drone production floors, engineering labs, and proximity to water for sea trial preparation.
- Safety & PPE: Ability to work around industrial materials while strictly adhering to PPE requirements.
The base salary range for this position is shown below. Actual compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and qualifications. This range reflects the base salary for candidates in states requiring pay transparency disclosure.
Salary Range
$144,500—$170,000 USD
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BENEFITS
At Saildrone, we’re building operational capability that matters—and that requires people who can do their best work over the long term. We invest in our team’s well-being, financial security, and professional growth so you can focus on delivering real-world impact with confidence and stability. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support you and your family while you contribute to a mission with lasting significance.
- Generous Time Off: Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual plus a robust annual holiday schedule and paid sick leave ensure you can rest, reset, and sustain performance over time.
- Comprehensive Health Coverage: Premium, multi-tier Medical, Dental, and Vision plans with significant company contributions for employees and dependents—providing security and peace of mind.
- Shared Ownership in the Mission: Equity grants are a core part of our compensation, allowing you to participate in the long-term value you help create through meaningful, operational work.
- Retirement Savings: Access to a 401(k) retirement plan with flexible pre-tax and Roth payroll contribution options supports long-term financial planning.
- Investment in Your Growth: We support your continuous learning through an annual professional development reimbursement program, empowering you to sharpen your skills and stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving field.
- Relocation Support: For eligible roles, we offer relocation assistance to help bring the world’s best talent to our mission-critical locations.
Saildrone is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.