ASV Operator
Austin, Texas
Production /
Full Time /
On-site
Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing defense autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations for the Department of Defense (DoD) through autonomous and intelligent platforms.
Role Overview:
The ASV Operator will spend a significant amount of time in the field, testing our Autonomous Surface Vessels on the water at local lakes and other outdoor environments. This position requires a combination of technical expertise, field-based testing experience, and the ability to work closely with our End of Line Technicians and Engineering team. You will be responsible for ensuring the vessels' performance meets our rigorous standards in challenging real-world conditions, while providing critical feedback to the engineering team for continuous product improvement.
Key Responsibilities:
- Field-Based Vessel Testing: Conduct hands-on testing of ASVs on the water at lakes and other field locations, assessing vessel performance in real-world environmental conditions (e.g., varying weather, water conditions, and obstacles).
- Collaboration with Engineering Team: Work closely with the engineering team to define test parameters, troubleshoot issues in the field, and ensure vessel systems meet performance requirements for autonomous navigation, sensor integration, and reliability.
- Data Collection & Analysis: Record and analyze data from field tests, including navigation accuracy, battery performance, sensor functionality, and autonomous decision-making processes.
- Test Protocols & Reporting: Develop test protocols for field operations, document test results, and provide comprehensive reports on vessel performance, identifying any issues or areas for improvement.
- Issue Troubleshooting: Quickly identify and diagnose performance issues with the vessels during field testing, coordinating with End of Line to resolve them on-site or in subsequent test phases.
- Maintenance & Setup: Ensure all support vessels and test equipment are properly maintained, set up, and prepared for field tests. This includes handling equipment transport and ensuring that vessels are fully operational before deployment.
- Safety & Compliance: Ensure all field testing is conducted safely, in compliance with safety regulations, and with respect for the environment. Monitor vessel performance to prevent any safety incidents during field operations.
- Feedback for Design Improvements: Provide direct feedback to the engineering and design teams based on field test results, helping to optimize vessel functionality and design for future iterations.
Requirements:
- 2+ years of experience working in a marine environment required.
- Experience working in outdoor, field-based testing (e.g., robotics, drones, autonomous systems, marine vehicles) is a plus.
- Prior hands-on experience with unmanned surface vehicles or small boats is preferred.
- Strong technical skills in testing mechanical, electrical, and software systems, with a particular focus on autonomous or marine systems.
- Ability to work independently in the field and perform troubleshooting on-site.
- Familiarity with maritime systems, autonomous systems,and vehicle control software (e.g., GPS, radar, AIS, cameras).
- Data analysis skills and proficiency with test instrumentation for capturing field data.
- Strong problem-solving abilities, particularly in outdoor, real-time testing environments.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with an ability to clearly document field test results and provide detailed feedback to the engineering team.
- Ability to spend extended periods outdoors in various weather conditions (sun, rain, cold).
- Comfortable with hands-on tasks, including the setup, maintenance, and transport of ASVs and equipment to field locations.
- Must have a valid driver’s license and be willing to travel to various testing sites as needed.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with Autonomous Surface Vessels (ASVs), marine vehicles, or unmanned systems.
- Experience with software tools for data logging, test automation, or system simulation (e.g., MATLAB, LabVIEW, Foxglove).
- Knowledge of environmental and safety regulations for outdoor testing.
Benefits:
- Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services
- Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
- Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care
- Saronic pays 99% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
- Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays
- Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents
- Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses
- Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan
- Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company’s success
- Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage
- Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office
Saronic does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other reason prohibited by law in provision of employment opportunities and benefits.
