Machinist, Waterjet Operator

About Us

Saildrone builds autonomous systems that dominate the world’s oceans

With 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 Role

Saildrone 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:

• Paid time off, including vacation, bereavement, jury duty, sick time and parental leave
• Comprehensive and competitive medical, dental and vision plans, and HSA with employer matching.
• Company sponsored life insurance
• Stock Options
• Annual stipend for continued learning and development
• Quarterly company BBQs at our Alameda HQ (bring your friends and family!)
• Free Bay Area Public Transportation via AlamedaTMA with the BayPass Clipper Card

Catch up on the latest news about us:

The British Engineer Behind the US Navy’s High-tech Ocean Drones – The Times of London

Denmark to Field Unmanned Vessels for Monitoring Busy Shipping Routes – Defense News

Counter-drug Sea Drones Utilized by Navy as Trump Ramps Up Military Resources at the Border

Saildrone, Palantir Partner to Use AI to Streamline USV Manufacturing, Operations – Breaking Defense

An Underwater Mountain was Newly Discovered off California Coast – San Francisco Chronicle

USVs Could Deter IUU Fishing – USNI Proceedings

TIME 100 Most Influential Companies 2024: Saildrone

Saildrone Featured Videos Playlist

Individual compensation packages are based on geographic location, scope of the role, relevant experience, and the ability to deal with complexity and problem solve within our organization, among other factors.

We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

Any unsolicited resumes/candidate profiles submitted through our website or to personal email accounts of employees of Saildrone are considered property of Saildrone and are not subject to payment of agency fees.

#LI-Onsite