We are an early-stage, maritime defense technology startup backed by top tier investors. Our team is designing and building autonomous and highly producible ships that can serve multiple missions on the open ocean.

Role Summary

Picture yourself working at the edge of a historic harbor stepping each day into the marine R&D facility where the future of our fleet is taking shape.

As we grow, we are seeking a Field Operations Lead to help drive the successful deployment and testing of our autonomous vessel platforms. This role blends leadership and hands-on execution guiding a team of multi-discipline Field Technicians while actively supporting vessel integration, sea trials, and mission operations. Working closely with engineering teams, you will help translate cutting-edge designs into real-world performance on the water. This role is ideal for someone energized by fast-paced innovation, collaborative problem solving, and the opportunity to push the boundaries of autonomous maritime technology.

Based in New Bedford, MA, this is more than a technical leadership position. It’s an opportunity to build tangible, mission-driven technology in a place where the ocean is both backdrop and proving ground for someone who feels at home near the water and takes pride in seeing their work launch from the dock.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of multiple Field Test Engineers
• Take on the principal responsibilities of the hands-on troubleshooting, repair, operation, and maintenance of USV in the field
• Coordinate test execution with 3rd party vendors, partners, and logistics companies
• Author detailed daily operational test reports to document the step-by-step execution of internal, and customer facing efforts to test and evaluate USV platforms and new capabilities pre-deployment and during sea trials
• Contribute to next-generation designs and features, from identifying areas for improvement to leading test and evaluation efforts for new technology rollouts
• Lead local USV operations in New Bedford, MA including supporting multiple nearshore sea test days per week
• Lead day-to-day operations for multiple USV platforms, including conducting pre-mission testing, launch and recovery, vehicle tasking, and data analysis
• Work within a dynamic team of multidisciplinary remote engineers and specialists throughout the life of AUV design, integration, and test efforts
• Generate user documentation for all aspects of USV operations, including USV user guide, mission planning guide, etc.
• Contribute to next generations design and facilitate testing of new technology
• Available for rotational "on call" response to failures after business hours & weekends

Qualifications

• 3 to 5 years' experience ideally operating robotic systems at-sea in a commercial or research offshore environment or merchant mariner.
• USCG MMC Credentials (prefer active credentials)

• • 100TN Captain, Marine Engineer
• Knowledge of electronics troubleshooting and basic use of test equipment
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
• Ability to adapt quickly and learn in a fast-paced and dynamic work environment
• Ability to work in austere maritime environments

What We Offer

• Incredibly high-caliber teammates. You’ll also work directly with our co-founders Rylan, Scott, and Austin.
• A fast-paced, creative working environment that offers a lot of room for ownership and growth.
• Opportunity to join a meaningful mission that protects American and our Democracy.
• Salary Range: $120,000 - $145,000 annual base salary (final compensation will depend on experience and skill level.
• Startup equity options.
• Generous PTO, medical, dental, and vision coverage.

Must be a U.S. Person due to required access to U.S. export controlled information or facilities. By applying, you confirm that you are a U.S. Person and can provide acceptable documentation verifying your status if selected.

Blue Water Autonomy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. All employment decisions—including recruitment, hiring, promotion, compensation, benefits, and termination—are made based on qualifications, merit, and business need.