Lead Test Engineer

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.

The Role

As a Lead Test Engineer, you will be responsible to design and implement in-process manufacturing test processes and systems supporting new production ensuring system modules and assemblies meet design specifications and requirements. You will own the testing regime that occurs throughout the manufacturing process, from cable harnesses, to fully integrated systems. You will fill a central role within the company and collaborate with a variety of teams in software engineering, hardware engineering, production, quality assurance, and technical operation. You will apply technical expertise to ensure operational excellence across our product line.

Responsibilities

• Lead and expand team supporting manufacturing test capability as company expands.

• Design and build production test solutions, define test regimes, and integrate testing into the manufacturing process

• Ensure “in-process” test processes are fully integrated and able to support production build rates and capacity

• Support Quality KPI’s regarding first-pass yield targets for finished modules and assemblies.

• Integrate lessons learned from field technical teams based on discoveries and root cause analysis for performance issues.

• Be part of the Engineering Change Order (ECO) review team to provide input into new product introductions and changes.

• Analyze metrics, troubleshoot hardware and firmware, and improve system reliability

• Write and manage test scripts, design fixtures, and document best practices

• Provide guidance to production technicians and engineering colleagues on test setup operations

Required Skills and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent experience, with 7+ years in hardware testing, including 2+ years testing complex technology in R&D or production

• Expertise in developing manufacturing tests for devices like power distribution modules, motor controllers, and network switches, with proficiency in PCBa-level testing and debugging complex systems interfacing with vehicle sub-systems

• Strong programming skills in Python and shell scripting; familiarity with C++ or C#; comfortable using command-line tools on Linux OS for diagnosing issues and improving test-related tasks

• Experience in fast-paced environments, collaborating cross-functionally to solve integration problems and lead or follow within diverse teams

• Familiarity with automotive protocols (e.g., CAN), hardware interfaces, industrial harness connections, and hardware test frameworks like OpenHTF.

• Ability to interpret electrical diagrams/schematics and mechanical systems for diagnostics and repairs

• Ability to write clear measurable test plans and effectively document processes; strong communication skills; committed to safety with sound judgment for operations in diverse environments

Desired Skills and Experience

• Experience in supporting the hiring process including interviews and job description creation.

• Hands-on experience with AIS, VHF, and SBD communication systems, including setup, troubleshooting, and integration

• Background in a production-facing role, ensuring smooth manufacturing processes, quality control, and efficient workflows to meet operational goals

• Experience with battery assembly, testing procedures, and performance validation, including diagnosing failures and optimizing reliability

• Proficiency in testing diesel power units, including load testing, diagnostics, and performance tuning for integration into mechanical and electrical systems

• Strong ability to anticipate potential failures, implement real-time monitoring strategies, and develop preventive measures to enhance system reliability and uptime

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to operate test equipment, machinery and AV equipment; use power tools; lift heavy loads up to 50 lbs.
  

Location: This position is in Alameda, CA. Our waterfront office offers beautiful views of San Francisco Bay in always sunny Alameda.

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
• Quarterly company BBQs at our Alameda HQ (bring your friends and family!)
• Free Bay Area Public Transportation via AlamedaTMA with the BayPass Clipper Card

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

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