Fleet Service Technician

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, an established European entity supporting regional business development, sales, and operations, and a deployment hub in 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 Fleet Service to assemble, service, and prepare autonomous surface vehicles for deployment in demanding marine environments. You will lead day-to-day assembly and service workflows, troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and software-related issues, and ensure vehicles meet mission-readiness requirements. We are looking for a skilled, self-directed technician who can plan work independently, solve problems in the field, and train others to meet Saildrone's standards for quality, safety, and execution. You will also serve as a site lead when a Level 3 technician or lead is not present. This role is based in Abu Dhabi, UAE supporting a fleet in the region with travel up to 25% of the time to other sites in the region. If based outside of the Middle East travel will be 50-75% depending on needs. THE TEAM Saildrone's autonomous surface vehicles operate for unprecedented periods of time in the most unforgiving environments on the planet. From inside of hurricanes to the frigid waters of the Arctic, the stresses they endure are immense. The technical execution of preparing the vehicles for their mission and servicing their constituent parts must be performed with a high degree of skill and consistency. The Fleet Service Team is responsible for constructing and servicing Saildrone vehicles as well as training and leading others to do the same THE RESPONSIBILITIES Lead vehicle assembly and service for Saildrone's fleet, with a focus on Voyager and cross-training across the Surveyor and Explorer platforms. Execute deployments and repairs domestically and internationally, independently leading vehicle haul-outs, launches, and mission-readiness validation. Plan and coordinate daily work several days in advance, assigning tasks and managing resources to keep technicians and contractors productive. Train and mentor others by coaching contractors, clients, and junior technicians on assembly and service procedures, and signing off on basic training modules. Troubleshoot technical issues across mechanical, electrical, and software systems, using appropriate diagnostic tools and methods to resolve field issues. Improve assembly and service processes by identifying gaps in work instructions, documenting field-proven solutions, and recommending improvements to procedures and vehicle designs for Engineering review. Coordinate site logistics and equipment by requesting parts using specific part numbers, managing heavy equipment such as cranes and forklifts, and maintaining accurate inventory records. Maintain service documentation and accountability by recording work accurately in Fleetio, closing work orders after deployment, and validating the quality and completeness of work performed by others. THE QUALIFICATIONS 5+ years of experience in a technical service role involving mechanical and electrical work in a field, shipyard, or heavy industrial environment. Demonstrated ability to assemble, service, and deploy complex equipment with minimal supervision, including tro…

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