Forward Deployed Engineer - Autonomous Vehicles
iO Associates · California, United States · 2 wk ago
EngineeringFull-time
Responsibilities
- Operate and support autonomous and semi-autonomous ground systems during testing, demonstrations, and field deployments
- Execute mission plans and adapt to changing conditions while maintaining safety and operational standards
- Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, software, and communications issues in real time
- Work closely with engineering teams to validate system performance and provide actionable feedback from the field
- Coverage deployment logistics, equipment readiness, vehicle transport, and recovery operations
- Conduct inspections, preventative maintenance, and repairs to ensure systems remain mission-ready
- Document operational findings, system performance, and lessons learned to support future development efforts
- Maintain a strong focus on safety, professionalism, and mission execution in dynamic environments
Qualifications
- Experience operating vehicles, robotic systems, military equipment, UGVs, UAS, or other complex technical systems
- Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills
- Comfortable working outdoors in demanding environments and supporting field operations
- Ability to remain calm and make decisions under pressure
- Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively with customers, operators, and engineering teams
- Self-starter who takes ownership and can operate with minimal oversight
- Interest in robotics, autonomy, defense technology, and emerging mission systems
- Willingness to travel extensively in support of testing and customer activities