Saildrone Support Vessel Deckhand

About Us

With more than 2 million nautical miles sailed and 50,000 days at sea, Saildrone has earned the trust of governments worldwide. Our unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) deliver continuous, real-time intelligence in the toughest oceans on Earth—giving our partners faster awareness, stronger security, and a decisive edge at sea.

Our USVs are long-range, extreme-endurance platforms powered by advanced sensors and proprietary AI - they have been designed to operate where no crewed vessel can. They collect critical insights above and below the surface to support border security, law enforcement, naval operations, and undersea infrastructure protection.

Headquartered in Alameda, CA, with offices in Washington, DC, and global deployment hubs, Saildrone operates missions worldwide. Join a fast-moving, mission-driven team at the intersection of AI, autonomy, and defense technology—where data turns into intelligence, and intelligence drives action.

About the Role

We are seeking a hardworking, motivated, and enthusiastic Deckhand to join our crew. As a Deckhand, you will be responsible for assisting with the daily operations of the support vessel,

including watch-keeping, vessel maintenance, and support of Saildrone on-water operations. This position requires a strong work ethic, the ability to work well in a team, and a passion for working on the water for extended periods of time.

Key Responsibilities:

Deck Operations: Assist with the handling of dock lines, tow lines, launch and recovery of the vessels tender. Help with anchoring, docking, and mooring the yacht. Operates the boat tender to and from the shore and to and from Saildrone vehicles while offshore. Stand a watch while underway.

Saildrone Operational Support:

Primary Role

• Operational readiness response time of 24 hours from time of notification from Saildrone Fleet Management to being underway to the rendezvous waypoint with Saildrone vehicle.
• Swimmer (or support to the swimmer) in the water to manage any underwater repair and maintenance.
• Rigging, splicing, etc
• Watch-keeping on long voyages.
• Towing operations when required up to 300+ nautical miles.
• Provide in-port operations and deployment towing of Saildrone vehicles
• Manage safe fueling operations for Saildrones

Secondary Role

• Support Saildrone field technicians as needed for repair work conducted on the water or at a predetermined service location on land.
• Vessel Maintenance: Clean and maintain the vessel's exterior, including washing, polishing, and keeping the decks and hull in pristine condition. Assist with routine maintenance tasks such as varnishing, painting, and checking safety equipment. Clean and maintain the vessel's interior, as directed by the Captain. Assist with fuel bunkering operations.
• Safety & Emergency Procedures: Be aware of all safety procedures and ensure the deck is kept clear of obstacles. Participate in regular safety drills and assist in the implementation of emergency protocols.
• Team Support: Work closely with the Captain and other crew members to ensure the smooth operation of the vessel and offer support with any tasks as required.

Physical Requirements:

● Must be able to stand, walk, use hands to grasp, push and pull, bend, lift up to 75 lbs and reach with your hands and arms. Must be able to perform work on a computer that requires ability to operate a keyboard and other peripheral devices.

● Must be able to confirm as “fit for work” by demonstrating ability to swim and tread water

● Must be able to stand navigational watch for up to 6 hours.

● Will be exposed to marine environments, including sun, wind, rain, cold, and saltwater spray, often for extended periods.

● Must be able to operate in daylight, low-light, and night conditions using marine navigation systems and visual cues.

● Ability to perform physically demanding work for extended periods of time, up to 12 hours/day.

Qualifications & Skills:

● Strong teamwork, communication, and organizational skills

● Ability to work in a fast-paced and physically demanding environment

● Positive attitude and willingness to learn

● Basic mechanical experience preferred

● Prior on-water experience required, offshore experience preferred

● SCUBA certified a plus

● USCG Masters License preferred, or demonstrated equivalent in seatime experience

● Current basic first aid and CPR certification

● Valid TWIC (or ability to obtain) and Passport

● Must be able to pass background check and USCG/DOT drug screen

● Ability to travel internationally and obtain foreign visas, as required

● Must be a US Citizen

● Spanish speaking a plus

Location: This is a rotational role with 60 days on, 30 days off. Round trip airfare from home airport to vessel, competitive salary, and onboard accommodation and meals covered.

All employees are required to provide proof of authorization to work in the U.S. within their first 3 days of work. Please note that the Company does not sponsor employees for work visas or permanent resident cards to work in the U.S. If you need sponsorship for a work visa or green card, you will not be qualified for employment with Saildrone.

Benefits:

• Paid time off, including vacation, bereavement, jury duty, sick time and parental leave
• Comprehensive and competitive medical, dental and vision plans, and HSA with employer matching.
• Company sponsored life insurance
• Stock Options
• Annual stipend for continued learning and development

Individual compensation packages are based on geographic location, scope of the role, and relevant experience, among other factors.

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