About UsWith 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 RoleSaildrone is seeking a skilled Machinist / Waterjet Operator to join our small but mighty fabrication team. You will collaborate with experienced fabricators and engineers to produce precision parts that support prototype development and fleet production of Saildrone’s Uncrewed Surface Vehicles (USVs).This position will lead waterjet cutting operations and support a wide range of fabrication needs. You’ll be responsible for programming, setup, and operation of the waterjet system, maintaining equipment, and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives. The role reports directly to the Fabrication Shop Manager as part of the greater Production team.We are a fast-paced, change-prone organization seeking a proactive and detail-oriented machinist who takes pride in craftsmanship and teamwork. Responsibilities● Interpret and work from CAD models and technical drawings created by the engineering team.● Set up, program, and operate OMAX waterjet cutting system to produce precision parts for prototype and production builds.● Input cutting parameters, nesting layouts, material thickness, and kerf offsets into the control software to achieve optimal cut quality and efficiency.● Load and secure materials, monitor cutting operations, and make real-time adjustments to ensure parts meet dimensional specifications.● Perform part inspections using precision measurement tools to verify conformance to engineering drawings.● Maintain proper records of jobs, materials, and machine settings for repeatability and traceability.● Identify and implement opportunities for process improvement, including new tooling, fixturing, or material utilization strategies.● Conduct routine maintenance, cleaning, and minor repairs on the waterjet and related support equipment.● Support general fabrication tasks, including deburring, sanding, light machining, and assembly.● Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.● Meet required timelines and production schedules. Desired Experience● High school graduate or GED certificate; vocational or technical training certificate (required).● 2+ years of experience operating and maintaining waterjet cutting systems (Flow, Omax, or equivalent).● Strong technical understanding of waterjet programming software (FlowMaster, Intelli-MAX, or similar) and machine operation parameters.● Experience working with a variety of materials including aluminum, stainless steel, and composites.● Ability to interpret CAD models and technical drawings to accurately program and cut parts.● Familiarity with general fabrication shop tools (e.g., drill press, belt sander, press brake).● Basic 2D CAD/CAM skills (AutoCAD, NX, SolidWorks, Fusion 360) for file setup and modification.● Strong mathematical and measurement skills for precision work.● Attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.● Problem-solving skills to identify and troubleshoot cutting or fixturing issues.● Willingness to cross-train across fabrication disciplines and support team priorities.● Flexibility to work overtime as needed to meet critical project deadlines. Physical Requirements● Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks.● Able to lift and handle materials up to 40+ pounds regularly.● Manual dexterity and fine motor skills for precise operation of tools and equipment.● Ability to follow safety protocols and wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE). 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:<ul><li>Paid time off, including vacation, bereavement, jury duty, sick time and parental leave</li><li>Comprehensive and competitive medical, dental and vision plans, and HSA with employer matching.</li><li>Company sponsored life insurance</li><li>Stock Options</li><li>Annual stipend for continued learning and development</li><li>Quarterly company BBQs at our Alameda HQ (bring your friends and family!)</li><li>Free Bay Area Public Transportation via AlamedaTMA with the BayPass Clipper Card</li></ul> <div><div>The salary range for this role is $37.07 - $41.88 hourly.</div></div> Individual compensation packages are based on geographic location, scope of the role, and relevant experience, among other factors.<div>Saildrone is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.</div> #LI-Onsite

Saildrone designs and manufactures wind and solar powered autonomous surface vehicles called Saildrones, which make cost-effective ocean data collection possible at scale. We are working with governments, civic agencies, foundations, universities, and private companies around the globe to drive better information about our oceans and seas - be it in mapping out the ocean floor, collecting new CO2 data in hard-to-reach areas, counting biomass to establish fishing quotas, or detecting and stopping illegal fishing and trafficking. We believe that better inputs in planetary models in turn yield better outputs and that the new insights gained in weather forecasting, carbon cycling, global fishing and climate change will have tremendous impact on humanity. We are based in Alameda, CA.

Machinist, Waterjet Operator

About the Job

About the Company

Saildrone

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