Senior Quality Engineer
Saildrone · Alameda · $125,800–$148,000 (stated in the posting)
THE COMPANY
Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV manufacturer or operator, Saildrone maintains active, combat-deployed systems supporting national security and force projection around the world, 24/7/365.
Saildrone’s manufacturing and R&D headquarters are located in Alameda, CA, with business development and sales operations in Washington, DC, and deployment hubs in Europe and the Middle East. By combining proven autonomous operations, edge computing, advanced sensing, renewable power, and the most advanced and robust unmanned surface technology on the planet, Saildrone is shaping how the Navy of the future operates. Join a fast-moving, mission-driven team at the forefront of maritime security and autonomous innovation.
THE POSITION
Saildrone is seeking a Senior Quality Engineer to join our Quality Operations team. Reporting directly to the Manager of Quality Operations, you will play a critical role in serving as the ultimate guardian of product reliability and bridging the gap between visionary design and rugged, sea-ready execution. We are looking for a technical expert who creates clarity from ambiguity, possesses technical grit to solve complex multi-disciplinary problems, and drives a "Quality First" culture across manufacturing and engineering.
THE TEAM
The Quality Operations team is responsible for driving quality strategies across the entire product lifecycle—from the deep-tier supply base to vehicle deployment in the ocean. We are focused on implementing rigorous root cause problem solving, scaling our Quality Management System, and ensuring maximum fleet survival in unforgiving environments to deliver reliable autonomous maritime intelligence to our customers.
THE RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead cross-functional teams in root-cause investigations, data analysis, and containment activities to disposition non-conforming materials (MRB) and execute permanent Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA).
- Own and maintain PFMEAs, Control Plans, inspection methods, visual standards, and Quality Alerts to mitigate risks and ensure manufacturing consistency.
- Work closely with Supply Chain to manage vendor qualifications, execute First Article Inspections (FAI), and drive Supplier Corrective Action Reports (SCARs).
- Carry out day-to-day operations using technical and quality systems (including Jira, NetSuite, Teamcenter, Fleetio, Weibull++, and Tulip) to maintain hardware traceability and track quality metrics.
- Monitor field performance data to bridge the gap between offshore hardware behavior and design engineering, driving iterative product and reliability improvements.
- Adhere to and scale our Quality Management System (QMS) toward ISO 9001 and AS9100 standards through SOP creation, process validation (IQ/OQ/PQ), and internal audits.
- Utilize Lean and Six Sigma methodologies (SPC, DOE) alongside advanced data analytics tools to evaluate manufacturing metrics, mitigate process variability, and author executive-level presentations that communicate performance trends and corrective strategies to senior management.
- Perform all responsibilities in accordance with company safety standards, maritime protocols, and quality guidelines.
THE QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace Engineering, or an equivalent technical field.
- 5 to 8+ years of hands-on quality engineering experience in a high-stakes, hardware-centric environment (e.g., Aerospace, Defense, Automotive, or Maritime/Robotics).
- Demonstrated proficiency in interpreting complex GD&T, reading technical drawings, and using CAD models to verify design intent.
- Proven experience utilizing quality toolkits, including PFMEA, process validation (IQ/OQ/PQ), Statistical Process Control (SPC), and Design of Experiments (DOE).
- Proficiency with Jira, NetSuite, Teamcenter, Fleetio, Tulip, or Weibull++ 2025.
- Ability to clearly communicate technical insights, failure modes, and risk mitigations across all levels of the organization—from manufacturing technicians to executive leadership.
- Working knowledge of ISO 9001 or AS9100 quality standards, including familiarity with PPAP; familiarity with IPC-A-610 and J-STD-001 is highly preferred.
- Preferred: ISO 9001/AS9100 Lead Auditor Certification, Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, or direct experience with maritime hardware and autonomous systems.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Physical Strength & Agility: Ability to lift and carry up to 30 lbs., traverse a large manufacturing facility multiple times daily (including stairs and uneven surfaces), and perform frequent bending, twisting, or squatting to inspect hardware.
- Stationary Work: Ability to remain stationary at a computer workstation for ~50% of the workday.
- Environmental Adaptability: Willingness and ability to work occasionally aboard support boats in a maritime environment, including exposure to sun, wind, weather, and vessel motion.
The base salary range for this position is shown below. Actual compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and qualifications. This range reflects the base salary for candidates in states requiring pay transparency disclosure.
BENEFITS
At Saildrone, we’re building operational capability that matters—and that requires people who can do their best work over the long term. We invest in our team’s well-being, financial security, and professional growth so you can focus on delivering real-world impact with confidence and stability. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support you and your family while you contribute to a mission with lasting significance.
- 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.
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.
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