Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USV) Maintainer / Operator

About the Role

SMX is seeking a USV Craft Maintainer and Operator to support the Navy by maintaining, sustaining, and operating a dedicated fleet of USV training craft located at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek, Virginia. The position requires a minimum DoD SECRET clearance (U.S. citizenship required) and is onsite at the Joint Expeditionary Base.

Responsibilities

• Conduct recurring preventative and corrective maintenance on USV training craft
• Perform OEM-based PMS cycles including lubrication, oil changes, filters, belts, and hoses
• Execute freshwater flushes, fuel stabilization, and battery preservation
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and software-related issues
• Interpret wiring diagrams, schematics, and system configuration documentation
• Conduct functional operational checks in both line‑of‑sight piloted and autonomous modes
• Implement software and firmware updates and verify system baselines
• Maintain usage logs, discrepancy reports, and configuration records
• Track high‑use components and replace high‑failure items as needed
• Support the daily readiness of all training USV platforms
• Maintain clean and safe workspaces in storage and maintenance areas
• Coordinate with Navy technical leads and SMX leadership to report readiness
• Work independently and proactively with minimal oversight
• Perform pre‑operational, post‑operational, and launch/recovery checks for USV training craft
• Remotely monitor USV status, telemetry, GPS position, communication links, and autonomy mode performance during training events
• Operate and communicate using maritime safety procedures, waterfront coordination, and VHF/radio protocols as required
• Document bugs, anomalies, failures, corrective actions, and operator feedback for escalation to technical leads or platform SMEs
• Support field deployments, training exercises, waterfront operations, and austere or forward operating environments as required

Qualifications

• DoD SECRET clearance with ability to obtain TS/SCI
• Strong initiative, self‑motivation, and disciplined work habits
• Comfortable working independently with limited supervision while maintaining high standards of safety, accountability, and mission readiness
• Progressive certification on USV platform sustainment tasks
• Training in software updates, autonomy modes, and mission‑planning tools
• Competency development in operational modes and system controls

Technical Skills

• Basic familiarity with Linux‑based systems and command‑line/terminal environments, or ability to rapidly learn software‑adjacent maintenance and troubleshooting workflows
• Basic understanding of computer networking, data links, and radio/communications systems supporting unmanned vehicle operations
• Experience conducting mechanical and electrical maintenance on marine craft
• Ability to interpret basic wiring diagrams and electrical schematics
• Familiarity with onboard computing systems and software‑driven platforms
• Basic understanding of autonomy systems or demonstrated ability to learn quickly
• Ability to execute preventative maintenance and conduct line‑of‑sight operational checks
• Familiarity with GPS navigation, remote vehicle control, and basic maritime operating procedures
• Ability to conduct structured pre‑ and post‑operation checks and clearly document system status, discrepancies, and corrective actions

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Ability to work in shops, waterfront, field, and training environments, including lifting and handling equipment and working around small craft
• Work performed in maintenance shops, warehouses, waterfront facilities, and maritime training environments
• Must be able to lift and move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and humidity
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, and work in confined spaces for extended periods
• Capable of supporting launch and recovery operations around small craft and waterfront facilities
• Occasional travel and temporary duty (TDY) may be required to support training, testing, or operational events

Desired Experience

• USV / unmanned systems maintenance background
• Exposure to autonomy platforms
• Mission‑planning software familiarity
• Forklift and warehouse handling familiarity
• Experience tracking maintenance actions and system configurations
• Exposure to ArduPilot or similar autopilot/control ecosystems, with interest and ability to develop proficiency in vehicle configuration, mission planning, parameter management, telemetry, and system troubleshooting
• Experience with launch/recovery, pier‑side operations, small boat operations, or waterfront safety procedures
• Familiarity with mission‑planning tools, ground/control stations, telemetry links, geofencing, and post‑mission log review
• Experience supporting Navy, RDT&E, training, or fielded unmanned maritime systems
• Marine electronics, communications, or network troubleshooting experience
• STCW, boating safety, forklift, trailer handling, or other maritime support certifications

Compensation

Proposed salary range: $125,000 USD – $160,000 USD.

Benefits

SMX offers a competitive mix of compensation, learning & development opportunities, and benefits, including health insurance, paid leave, and retirement plans.