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 an Engineering Manager, Vehicle Infrastructure to join our Autonomy & Vehicle Systems Engineering team. Reporting to the Director of Software Engineering, you will lead the development of the onboard software and networking infrastructure that powers Saildrone’s autonomous fleet.

You will play a critical role in scaling our vehicle computing platforms and delivering reliable, secure, and high-performance systems across software, firmware, and hardware domains. We are looking for a technical leader who creates clarity from ambiguity, drives rigorous engineering execution, and builds high-performing teams in fast-moving, mission-critical environments.

THE TEAM

The Vehicle Infrastructure team is responsible for the software, networking, and computing foundations that enable Saildrone vehicles to operate autonomously in complex maritime environments. We focus on building robust, scalable onboard systems—from embedded Linux platforms and networking architectures to communications and compute integration—to support global maritime domain awareness in national security and defense contexts.

THE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Onboard Infrastructure Delivery: Lead the design, development, and delivery of onboard software and networking infrastructure, ensuring Linux OS and driver integration meet performance and reliability targets.

• System Architecture: Be accountable for the onboard software stack architecture, including ownership of IP-networking strategies, multi-egress routing optimization, and system configuration management.

• Cross-Functional Planning: Work closely with Technical Program Management, Hardware, and Firmware teams to align on Technical Roadmaps and ensure the successful delivery of integrated payload computes.

• Embedded System Bring-up: Carry out the bring-up and integration of new embedded Linux computers (Nvidia, NXP i.MX8) in accordance with Yocto-based build standards and engineering best practices.

• Risk & Performance Monitoring: Monitor for system-level constraints—such as variable latency connectivity and power consumption—taking action to mitigate risks and resolve technical blockers.

• Standardization & Quality: Adhere to and establish engineering standards for rigorous design and test, including kernel module integration and network-layer debugging.

• Metrics & Reporting: Provide timely updates on vehicle system performance metrics (uptime, data throughput, system health) to cross-functional stakeholders and leadership.

• Team Leadership & Talent: Perform all responsibilities related to building a high-performing team, including mentoring individual contributors and recruiting top-tier talent with deep expertise in embedded and networked systems.

THE QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or a related technical field.

• 8+ years of experience in embedded software, infrastructure systems, or systems engineering, with at least 1+ years of experience leading technical teams.

• Demonstrated proficiency in Embedded Linux (Yocto preferred), C/C++ debugging, and scripting languages such as Python and Bash to automate diagnostics.

• Proven ability to diagnose complex networking issues in high-latency/low-bandwidth environments using tools like tcpdump, Wireshark, and iperf.

• Ability to clearly communicate technical tradeoffs across hardware-software interfaces, including power requirements, thermal constraints, and data-pipe limitations.

• Ability to work effectively in lab and shop environments, with hands-on experience involving SBCs, wiring, and power supplies.

• Working knowledge of networking protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, CAN, Ethernet) and hardware-level communication standards required for autonomous maritime systems.

• Experience integrating Nvidia embedded systems or perception payloads (cameras, LIDAR) for real-time video processing and data streaming.

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**$199,500—$256,500 USD**
To view Saildrone's candidate privacy policy, please visit: https://www.saildrone.com/privacy.

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.