Scout AI→
Mission Operator - Forward Deployed Engineer at Scout AI · Paso…
Entry LevelOn-siteFull-timePaso Robles, CA$85k–$140k/yr
Skills
operating autonomous ground systemsmechanical troubleshootingelectrical troubleshootingoff-road drivingfield equipment operationsystem maintenancesystem deploymentsystem recovery
Job Description
Summary: Scout AI is developing Fury, the first robotic foundation model for defense, to empower U.S. forces with autonomous capabilities. The Mission Operator role involves acting as a forward-deployed operator and field engineer for unmanned ground vehicle programs, ensuring system performance, executing missions, and troubleshooting issues in real-time.
Responsibilities:
- Lead forward-deployed operation of autonomous and semi-autonomous ground systems in complex, real-world environments, supporting customer-facing demonstrations and field evaluations
- Execute and adapt mission test plans in dynamic conditions, ensuring successful outcomes while maintaining strict safety and operational standards
- Serve as the on-site technical authority during field operations, diagnosing and resolving mechanical, electrical, and software issues in real time
- Interface directly with high-priority customers and stakeholders, briefing system capabilities, conducting live demonstrations, and representing product performance in the field
- Coordinate end-to-end field logistics including system deployment, mobility, sustainment, and recovery across distributed test environments
- Drive system readiness through hands-on maintenance, inspection, and rapid repair of vehicles, payloads, and supporting equipment
- Capture and communicate actionable field insights to engineering and product teams, influencing system improvements and future development
- Maintain operational awareness of system health, performance, and limitations to ensure mission success under austere conditions
- Enforce and model disciplined safety practices for personnel, equipment, and autonomous system operations
Required Qualifications:
- Experience operating and sustaining vehicles, robotic systems, or complex field equipment in dynamic environments
- Proficiency in off-road driving, trailering, and executing operations in austere or rugged conditions
- Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills, with the ability to diagnose and resolve issues across hardware and software systems
- High level of situational awareness with a disciplined approach to safety in field operations
- Effective communicator under pressure, capable of coordinating with engineering teams and interfacing with customers in real time
- Self-directed and adaptable, with the ability to operate independently in field-heavy, fast-paced environments
- Willingness and enthusiasm to spend significant time outdoors supporting field missions and test operations
- Mission-driven, with a strong interest in advancing autonomous systems for defense applications
- Ability to travel 50–75% to support testing, deployments, and customer engagements
- Legal authorization to work in the United States is required; role may involve access to U.S. export-controlled information
Required Skills: Operating autonomous ground systems, Mechanical troubleshooting, Electrical troubleshooting, Off-road driving, Field equipment operation, System maintenance, System deployment, System recovery
Benefits: Competitive base salary and bonus, Meaningful equity, Premium medical, dental, and vision plans with $0 paycheck contribution, Competitive PTO and company holiday calendar, Catered lunch daily and fully stocked kitchen, Unlimited AI tokens, EV charging, Relocation assistance (depending on role eligibility)
Benefits
Competitive base salary and bonus
Meaningful equity
Premium medical, dental, and vision plans with $0 paycheck contribution
Competitive PTO and company holiday calendar
Catered lunch daily and fully stocked kitchen
Unlimited AI tokens
EV charging
Relocation assistance (depending on role eligibility)