USV Operator

Black & Grey HR is seeking a USV System Operator to join our client's Unmanned Systems team on a permanent basis in Abu Dhabi. You will be responsible for the safe operation, monitoring, and control of Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USVs), ensuring missions are executed efficiently while maintaining compliance with operational procedures and maritime safety standards. Working closely with the Unmanned Solutions Manager, technical teams, and project personnel, you will operate remote control and autonomous systems, monitor mission performance, perform pre- and post-mission checks, troubleshoot operational issues, and maintain accurate mission records.

• - Operate Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USVs) during deployment, transit, mission execution, and recovery.
• - Control vessel navigation systems, propulsion, and autonomous functions in accordance with approved mission plans and operational procedures.
• - Continuously monitor vessel telemetry, navigation data, and payload performance throughout mission execution.
• - Identify operational anomalies, navigation deviations, or system risks and take corrective action within assigned authority limits.
• - Perform pre-mission and post-mission system checks, including communications, navigation, propulsion, and payload readiness.
• - Complete mission readiness checklists and ensure all systems are returned to operational status after each mission.
• - Assist in troubleshooting minor technical issues related to onboard systems, communication links, remote control systems, and mission payloads.
• - Escalate major technical failures promptly to the Unmanned Solutions Manager or Technical Support team.
• - Maintain compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs), risk assessments, maritime regulations, COLREGs, and company safety standards.
• - Record mission performance, operational logs, incidents, and system status throughout each mission.
• - Prepare accurate mission reports, highlighting mission outcomes, anomalies, and lessons learned.
• - Coordinate with technical teams, supporting vessels, and project personnel to ensure safe and efficient mission execution.
• - Provide timely operational updates and escalation issues in accordance with established reporting procedures.

• - Additional relevant certifications or technical qualifications are an advantage.
• - Previous experience operating Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USVs), Unmanned Vehicles (UxVs), ROVs, AUVs, drones, or similar remote-operated systems is preferred.
• - Experience with in offshore, marine, maritime, hydrographic survey, or unmanned systems operations is highly desirable.
• - Proficiency in navigation systems, sonar, and data collection tools.
• - Experience operating IT/OT systems, remote control systems, and software interfaces.
• - Strong understanding of vessel control systems and autonomous operations.
• - Ability to troubleshoot operational and IT/OT system issues independently.
• - Ability to work in offshore and varying environmental conditions and perform physical tasks as required.
• - Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with excellent attention to detail.
• - Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• - Strong teamwork and collaboration skills with the ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
• - Demonstrated commitment to operational safety and compliance.