About Us

Saildrone is an oceanographic survey and maritime defense company creating a paradigm shift in how navies, civil governments, and commercial organizations obtain the real-time, accurate data required to monitor and protect our oceans. Saildrone’s fleet of uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs) carry purpose-built payloads supporting border protection, critical infrastructure security, hydrographic survey, offshore energy, and metocean monitoring. Powered by renewable wind and solar energy, Saildrone USVs provide long-duration operations measured in months, not days. Proprietary software applications and machine learning technology transform collected data into actionable insights and intelligence.

We are based in Alameda, CA, with offices in Washington DC and St. Petersburg, FL, and operate missions worldwide. We are backed by top-tier investors in the frontier tech and sustainability sectors, including Social Capital, Capricorn, Lux Capital, BOND Capital, and Emerson Collective.

This is an exciting opportunity with a fast-growing team at the cutting-edge intersection of big data services and autonomous hardware. You will be part of a high-performing, multidisciplinary team that delivers high impact for humanity and future generations.

The Role

Saildrone is seeking a Hydrographic Surveyor responsible for supporting the collection of deep water bathymetric data utilizing an uncrewed survey vehicle. In this role, you will participate in the collection, monitoring, analysis and interpretation of marine survey data.

The Hydrographer will perform duties to include data QA/QC, equipment setup/calibration, data acquisition, data processing, equipment maintenance, and production of final deliverables/reports. Additional responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

• Participate in the bathymetric survey project from assignment to completion
• Assist the Lead Surveyor with project reporting tasks as needed
• Stand watches monitoring a range of sonars/sensors on a fleet of Saildrones operating internationally, plan routes and communicate with drone pilots and mission Lead Surveyor to meet survey objectives and standards
• Communicate with applicable Saildrone personnel regarding the status of the survey to update survey plans, troubleshoot and resolve issues, and ensure survey schedules are maintained
• Ensure all established field procedures are followed and that they uphold Saildrone’s standards of data collection
• Ensure compliance with company standards, industry standards, and local regulations, while identifying opportunities for continuous improvement of the company’s processes and procedures
• Keeping up to date on latest IHO and national data standards and survey procedures

Required Skills and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Hydrography, Oceanography, Geomatics, Remote Sensing or related discipline
• 3 or more years experience in the Survey or Geoscience industry as a survey professional
• Familiarity with multibeam systems such as Kongsberg, Norbit, Teledyne and acquisition software such as Seafloor Information Systems (SIS) and Norbit DCT
• Ability to work irregular hours, rotating weekends, and shift work
• Candidate is detail-oriented with a disciplined approach to communications, processes, and projects
• Interest and passion for new technology applications for ocean mapping

Desired Skills and Experience

• Category A/B Hydrographer Certification
• NSPS-THSOA Certified Hydrographer
• 3 or more years of experience processing bathymetric/hydrographic data with Qimera or CARIS
• Possess excellent oral and written communication skills
• Experience using uncrewed surface vehicles or other autonomous systems for survey operations

Physical Requirements

• Work is performed on a computer and requires ability to operate a keyboard and other peripheral devices.

Location: This position is in St. Petersburg, FL. Hybrid work is possible. Nicknamed “The Sunshine City,” St. Petersburg, Florida offers a vibrant mix of tropical weather, arts and culture, shopping, dining, sports, and outdoor recreation all along a stunning shoreline that features some of the nation’s top-ranked beaches.

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
• Quarterly company BBQs at our Alameda HQ (bring your friends and family!)
• Free Bay Area Public Transportation via AlamedaTMA with the BayPass Clipper Card
• Plenty of snacks in our 3 office locations
• Dog-friendly work environment

APPLY HERE.