Mission Operations Specialist - San Diego

Shift5 is building the data platform for onboard operational technology (OT). We deliver cybersecurity, predictive maintenance, and compliance capabilities that enable defense and commercial fleets to operate with greater readiness, resilience, and mission assurance.

We are seeking a mission-aligned Mission Operations Specialist to support the installation, configuration, testing, and sustainment of Shift5 solutions across customer platforms.

This role sits at the intersection of Field Integration, Hardware & Software Deployment, and Systems Sustainment and will play a critical role in supporting Shift5’s next phase of growth.

This is an active, field-oriented remote role (based out of San Diego). It requires a desire to get hands-on in the field with customer platforms, technical fluency in hardware and software installation, ownership of field deployment procedures, an ambitious mindset to do whatever it takes, and the relentless drive needed to solve the toughest problems facing our customers.

• Install Shift5 hardware, sensors, networking equipment, and cabling on military and commercial platforms in industrial, maritime, rail, or defense environments.
• Configure, install, and update software applications, operating systems (Windows/Linux), and system images across customer hardware.
• Execute installation procedures, startup checklists, and operational verification tests to ensure system readiness and compliance with Shift5 quality and safety standards.
• Travel and deploy into the field to work directly alongside customers and Mission Deployment Engineers, leading on-site integration, upgrades, and preventative maintenance activities.
• Troubleshoot basic hardware, software, network, and installation issues on-site, escalating complex technical challenges to Mission Deployment Engineers.
• Document installation activities, equipment configurations, and test results while preparing and maintaining deployment kits, tools, and equipment.

Required

• Experience in supporting technical equipment, field installations, electronics, networking, IT systems, or related hands-on technologies (1–4 years).
• Proficiency with common hand tools, basic electronic test equipment, Windows operating systems, and basic Ethernet/IP-based communications.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and ability to read basic technical procedures.
• Hands-on experience with technical troubleshooting, hardware assembly, software installation, and system testing in field environments.
• Comfort operating in dynamic, fast-paced environments, with the ability to lift up to 50 pounds in industrial, maritime, rail, or military settings.
• Associate degree, technical certification, military technical training, or equivalent hands-on experience.
• Highly self-motivated with a strong bias for action, proactive problem-solving skills, and willingness to travel up to 30% domestically and occasionally internationally.
• Security Clearance: Active U.S. security clearance, or the ability and willingness to obtain one.

Preferred: 

• Familiarity with Surface Navy vessels is a plus, with LCS experience.
• Military technical experience in electronics, communications, aviation, maritime, maintenance, IT, or related defense fields.
• Experience supporting DoD, aerospace, maritime, rail, or industrial customers.
• Familiarity with Linux operating systems, multimeters, logic analyzers, wiring diagrams, and installation drawings.
• Experience installing ruggedized computers, sensors, or networking equipment on operational platforms.

• Base Salary: $75,000 - $110,000
• Bonus program and equity in a fast-growing startup
• Competitive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their families
• Health Savings Account with annual employer contributions
• Employer-paid Life and Disability Insurance 
• Uncapped paid time off policy 
• Flexible work & remote work policy 
• Tax-deferred public transit benefits with Metro SmartBenefits (DC/MD/VA)  

We are committed to building an inclusive culture of belonging that embraces the diversity of our people and represents the communities in which we work and the customers we serve. We know the happiest and highest performing teams include people with diverse perspectives and ways of solving problems. We strive to attract and retain talent from all backgrounds and create workplaces where everyone feels empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work.   

Shift5 is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability, age, marital status, ancestry, projected veteran status, or any other protected group or class.