Field Operator - Vehicle Testing

About the role

At Seasats, we build autonomous boats that reliably complete critical missions. The Field Operator – Vessel Testing will launch vessels, conduct test missions, and document key information, specializing in maritime operations and working closely with production and engineering teams. The position is based in San Diego, CA, splitting time between the headquarters and local boat ramps.

Responsibilities

• Launch and recover unmanned vessels.
• Drive small boats, primarily in sheltered waters and occasionally in open ocean.
• Develop and execute missions using Seasats’ proprietary control software.
• Troubleshoot hardware and software issues independently and with remote or onsite engineers.
• Complete test checklists and log unexpected or problematic vessel behaviors.
• Write test reports.
• Maintain clean and functional water‑operations equipment.
• Load, unload, and drive vans, trucks, and trailers.

Requirements

• Deep familiarity with saltwater boat operations through work or extensive experience.
• Confidence applying COLREGS and basic maritime safety procedures.
• Experience operating gas/diesel engines.
• Comfortable working outdoors year‑round in San Diego.
• Ability to adapt to shifting priorities and occasional non‑standard hours.
• Experience driving drones or other RC vehicles.
• Valid driver’s license and California boater card (or equivalent).
• Ability to move heavy objects (trailers, Lightfish, etc.) and use hand tools.

Nice to have

• Electronics and/or software troubleshooting experience.
• USCG Captain’s License or similar certification.
• Experience working with military and/or Coast Guard personnel.
• Forklift certification.

Pay

Salary range: $80,000 – $105,000 per year, plus stock options, 401(k) matching, and other benefits.

Benefits

• Stock options.
• Competitive insurance (including a 99% employer‑covered Gold HMO plan or other options).
• 401(k) matching up to 4% of salary.
• Four free lunches per week.
• Employee activity fund.
• Pet‑friendly office.
• Unlimited/Flex PTO.

About Seasats

Seasats delivers maritime robotics solutions with unmanned surface vessels (USVs) that carry sensors at sea for months, supporting defense, scientific, and commercial customers. Their USVs have autonomously crossed both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, transforming ocean monitoring.

Due to export control requirements, only U.S. persons as defined by U.S. export control laws (U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, asylees, or refugees) may be considered.