Support Vessel Deckhand

Summary: Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles. They are seeking a Deckhand to join their Fleet Management team, responsible for supporting vessel operations and enabling reliable on-water support for autonomous surface vehicles. Responsibilities: - Rapid Operational Response: Maintain a high state of readiness with the ability to be underway within 24 hours of notification from Fleet Management - On-Water Support: Execute deck operations including mooring, long-distance towing (300+ nautical miles), and complex launch and recovery of USVs - In-Water Maintenance: Serve as the primary swimmer (or swimmer support) for underwater repairs, hull inspections, and clearing fouled components at sea - Vessel Maintenance: Ensure the support vessel remains in pristine condition through performing oil and filter changes, general deck maintenance and projects, painting, polishing, hull and bilge cleaning; assist with fuel bunkering and USV fueling operations - Watch-Standing: Stand navigational watches of up to 6 hours in daylight, low-light, and night conditions using marine navigation systems - Fleet Collaboration: Support field technicians with repair work conducted both on the water and at remote land-based service locations on an as needed basis - Safety & Compliance: Participate in rigorous safety drills and emergency protocols; ensure the deck is clear of obstacles and safety equipment is mission-ready Required Qualifications: - Prior experience in commercial, offshore, or heavy maritime operations; offshore experience is highly preferred - Ability to perform work for up to 12 hours per day; must be able to lift 75 lbs and stand for extended periods in extreme weather - Proficiency in rigging, splicing, and small boat operations; basic mechanical experience preferred - Must be 'fit for work' by demonstrating the ability to swim and tread water in open-sea conditions - Current First Aid and CPR; SCUBA certification is a significant plus; USCG Masters License, Merchant Mariner Credential, or equivalent documented sea-time preferred - Valid Passport and TWIC card (or ability to obtain); ability to obtain a foreign VISA (as required), U.S. Citizenship required - Ability to pass a background check and USCG/DOT drug screening; Spanish speaking is a plus - Must be able to stand, walk, use hands to grasp, push and pull, bend, lift up to 75 lbs and reach with your hands and arms - Must be able to perform work on a computer that requires ability to operate a keyboard and other peripheral devices - Must be able to confirm as 'fit for work' by demonstrating ability to swim and tread water - Must be able to stand navigational watch for up to 6 hours - Will be exposed to marine environments, including sun, wind, rain, cold, and saltwater spray, often for extended periods - Must be able to operate in daylight, low-light, and night conditions using marine navigation systems and visual cues - Ability to perform physically demanding work for extended periods of time, up to 12 hours/day Preferred Qualifications: - Basic mechanical experience preferred - SCUBA certification is a significant plus - USCG Masters License, Merchant Mariner Credential, or equivalent documented sea-time preferred - Spanish speaking is a plus Required Skills: Maritime operations experience, Rigging, splicing, First Aid, CPR Important Skills: SCUBA certification, USCG Masters License Nice-to-Have Skills: Basic mechanical experience, Spanish speaking Benefits: Generous Time Off: Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual plus a robust annual holiday schedule and paid sick leave ensure you can rest, reset, and sustain performance over time., Comprehensive Health Coverage: Premium, multi-tier Medical, Dental, and Vision plans with significant company contributions for employees and dependents—providing security and peace of mind., Shared Ownership in the Mission: Equity grants are a core part of our compensation, allowing you to participate in the long-term value you help create through meaningful, operational work., Retirement Savings: Access to a 401(k) retirement plan with flexible pre-tax and Roth payroll contribution options supports long-term financial planning., Investment in Your Growth: We support your continuous learning through an annual professional development reimbursement program, empowering you to sharpen your skills and stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving field., Relocation Support: For eligible roles, we offer relocation assistance to help bring the world’s best talent to our mission-critical locations.