Production Technician

About Us

Saildrone is a defense company delivering maritime intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance products to military, homeland security, and commercial customers. Saildrone unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) are extreme‑endurance platforms equipped with advanced sensors and proprietary AI to provide persistent insights above and below the sea surface. Insights that support border security, law enforcement, undersea infrastructure protection, hydrography, and naval power applications. With more than 2,000,000 nautical miles sailed and 50,000 days at sea, Saildrone USVs are trusted by governments across the planet and set the standard for cost‑efficient maritime intelligence in the world’s harshest environments.

We are based in Alameda, CA, with offices in Washington DC and St. Petersburg, FL, and operate missions worldwide. This is an exciting opportunity with a fast‑growing team at the cutting‑edge intersection of big data services, autonomy, and AI. You will be part of a high‑performing, multidisciplinary team delivering data, intelligence, and firepower for strategic superiority.

As a Production Assembly Technician at our company, you will play a vital role in assembling and rebuilding subsystems for our ocean‑going vehicles. These subsystems include cameras, actuators, and battery systems. Your responsibilities will encompass a range of tasks, including soldering, harness assembly, mechanical assembly, and testing. Whether you’re working on a one‑off prototype or a production batch, your attention to detail and commitment to quality will be essential.

You’ll need to interpret engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, and work instructions accurately while maintaining a well‑organized workspace. Collaboration and problem‑solving will be key as you work alongside our Production Team to build innovative and high‑quality products.

• Work on new products with limited formal work instructions
• Builds critically, ultimately being able to recognize when to stop and ask questions by drawing on previous experience
• Contribute to fitting, building, or reconstructing various parts within required timelines.
• Maintains high‑quality of work at all times, prioritizing attention to detail above all else
• Is able to interpret and follow engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, and work instructions
• Maintain a safe, clean, and healthy work environment in adherence to company policies.
• Update and maintain records of test results and inspection procedures.
• Actively contribute ideas for process improvement to enhance quality and production efficiency.
• Monitor and maintain equipment to ensure proper functioning.
• Trains other technicians on basic tasks and assemblies
• Foresees production problems ahead of time, ie: calling out low inventory items, suggesting new tools/jigs, flagging issues seen during assembly

• 2-4 years work experience in a production assembly environment
• Has experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Assembling of electro‑mechanical assemblies
  • Testing sub‑assemblies
  • PCBA work: hand solder / repair
  • Harnesses assembly
  • Metal fabrication (e.g. mill/lathe)
• Works comfortably and with good speed and quality in electro‑mechanical assemblies
• Ideally completion of formal certification in electronics or engineering, typically industry apprenticeship, AA degree, or Bachelor’s degree
• Strong communication skills
• Working onsite in our Alameda HQ, 5‑days per week.

• Ability to stand for extended periods of up to 8 hours per shift.
• Capable of lifting and carrying materials weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Good manual dexterity and hand‑eye coordination.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks with attention to detail.
• Comfortable working in various environmental conditions, including noise and moderate temperature changes.
• Ability to follow safety protocols and wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE).

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…