Senior Maritime Operations Technician - Mission Autonomy

As a Senior Maritime Operations Technician, you will be a senior technical leader and hands-on expert on the Maritime Operations team. Reporting to the Marine Operations Lead, you will be responsible for ensuring the operational readiness of our Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) fleet by leading complex maintenance, troubleshooting, and systems integration efforts. This role requires deep technical mastery equivalent to a Senior Marine Diesel Technician, combined with the ability to think creatively to solve ambiguous problems. You will be looked to as a leader within the onsite team, mentoring junior technicians and ensuring the highest standards of safety and execution during on-water operations.

What You'll Do

• Execute complex maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of USV assets, including propulsion, electrical, and navigation systems.
• Lead hands-on integration efforts for new hardware, sensors, and software components onto USV platforms.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to Marine Operations Technicians, fostering a culture of excellence and safety.
• Serve as a senior operator and onsite safety lead during on-water test events, including acting as a Safety Remote Control Operator.
• Diagnose and resolve complex, ambiguous technical issues with minimal supervision, developing creative and effective solutions.
• Ensure the USV fleet is maintained to the highest state of readiness, managing parts inventory and maintenance schedules for assigned assets.
• Collaborate closely with engineering and test teams to provide critical feedback for system improvements and support test execution.
• Develop and refine maintenance procedures and technical documentation.

Required Qualifications

• Extensive, hands-on diagnostic and repair experience with marine systems, particularly marine diesel engines, propulsion systems, and advanced electrical/electronic systems.
• Proven experience mentoring or informally leading junior technicians in a maritime environment.
• Deep understanding of maritime regulations and safety procedures, with a demonstrated commitment to fostering a strong safety culture.
• Experience with hardware integration on marine vessels, including sensors, actuators, and communication equipment.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting complex integrated systems that include mechanical, electrical, and software components.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently on ambiguous and challenging technical problems.
• Proficient with computer terminals and basic networking concepts.
• Availability to work extended hours and travel to test locations as required.
• U.S. citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Formal training or certification as a Marine Diesel Technician (e.g., from manufacturers like Caterpillar, Cummins, MTU).
• Experience with autonomous or remotely operated surface vessels (USVs).
• Merchant Mariner Credential or equivalent maritime certification.
• Experience with scripting languages (e.g., Python, Bash) for automation and diagnostics.
• Familiarity with Linux operating systems and command-line interfaces.
• Background in naval operations, US Coast Guard, or relevant military technical experience.