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 Production Assembly Technician to join our Electromechanical Assembly team. Reporting directly to the Manager, Production Assembly, you will play a vital role in assembling and troubleshooting subsystems for our ocean-going vehicles. These subsystems include cameras, actuators, and battery systems. Your responsibilities will encompass a range of tasks, including harness routing, mechanical assembly, and testing. Whether you're working on a one-off prototype or a production batch, your attention to detail and commitment to quality will be essential. We are looking for a skilled individual that has the ability to interpret engineering drawings, wiring one-lines, and work instructions accurately while maintaining a well-organized workspace. Collaboration and problem-solving will be key as you work alongside our Production Team to build innovative and high-quality products.

THE TEAM

The Electromechanical Assembly team is responsible for assembly high quality subassemblies for all drone platforms including engines, batteries, actuators, and PCBA enclosures. We are focused on delivering all builds to meet mission timelines and ensure that all materials meet the engineering specifications to ensure high reliability of our autonomous systems.

THE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work on new products with limited formal work instructions.

• Build critically, ultimately being able to recognize when to stop and ask questions by drawing on previous experience.

• Contribute to fitting, building, or reconstructing various parts within required timelines.

• Maintains high-quality work at all times, prioritizing attention to detail and quality above all else.

• Interpret and follow engineering drawings, wiring schematics, and work instructions.

• Maintain a safe, clean, and healthy work environment in adherence to company policies.

• Update and maintain records of test results and inspection procedures.

• Actively contribute ideas for process improvements to enhance quality and production efficiency.

• Monitor and maintain equipment to ensure proper functioning and communicate any issues to management.

• Foresee production problems ahead of time, e.g.: calling out low inventory items, suggesting new tools/jigs, and flagging issues seen during assembly.

THE QUALIFICATIONS

• 2-4 years work experience in a production assembly environment

• Has experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Assembling of electro-mechanical assemblies - including an understanding of the main principles of torque values, impact drivers, and measuring devices.

• Testing sub-assemblies to meet high quality standards and reliability.

• A basic understanding of engines, batteries, actuators, CAN/BUS systems, and PLCs is a plus.

• Works comfortably and with good speed in electromechanical assemblies with a high attention to detail.

• Ideally completion of formal certification in electronics or engineering, typically industry apprenticeship, AA degree, or Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience.

• Strong communication skills and willingness to learn new skills.

• Working knowledge of safety protocols within a manufacturing environment.

• Able to navigate basic computer programs and functions to facilitate task tracking.

• Working onsite in our Alameda HQ, 5-days per week.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand for extended periods of up to 8 hours per shift.

• Capable of lifting and carrying materials weighing up to 40 pounds.

• Good manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination for the safe and proper operation of various tools.

• Ability to perform repetitive tasks with attention to detail.

• Comfortable working in various environmental conditions, including noise and moderate temperature changes.

• Ability to follow safety protocols and wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE).

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**$30.24—$41.88 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.