Senior Maritime Operations Technician - Mission Autonomy

Anduril Anduril · Defense · Costa Mesa, CA · Hardware Engineering : Test & Evaluation : Test & Evaluation

This role is for a Senior Maritime Operations Technician at Anduril, a defense technology company. The primary focus is on the maintenance, troubleshooting, and integration of Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) assets, including their propulsion, electrical, and navigation systems. The role involves hands-on technical leadership, mentoring junior technicians, and ensuring operational readiness and safety during on-water operations. While the company utilizes AI and autonomy, this specific role is centered on the mechanical and electrical systems of the vessels, not the direct development or deployment of AI models or agents.

What you'd actually do

  1. Execute complex maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of USV assets, including propulsion, electrical, and navigation systems.
  2. Lead hands-on integration efforts for new hardware, sensors, and software components onto USV platforms.
  3. Mentor and provide technical guidance to Marine Operations Technicians, fostering a culture of excellence and safety.
  4. Serve as a senior operator and onsite safety lead during on-water test events, including acting as a Safety Remote Control Operator.
  5. Diagnose and resolve complex, ambiguous technical issues with minimal supervision, developing creative and effective solutions.

Skills

Required

  • 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.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

Nice to have

  • 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.

What the JD emphasized

  • deep technical mastery equivalent to a Senior Marine Diesel Technician
  • complex maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair
  • complex integrated systems that include mechanical, electrical, and software components
  • complex, ambiguous technical issues
  • Deep understanding of maritime regulations and safety procedures