Autonomous Vessel Operations Lead

Sea Machines Robotics; Boston (MA); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

Dental insurance

Disability insurance

Flexible spending account

Health insurance

Life insurance

Paid time off

Parental leave

Vision insurance

Job summary

Sea Machines Robotics seeks a hands-on Vessel Operator to support the operation, testing, and deployment of autonomous vessels. This role blends traditional seamanship with advanced marine technology, requiring comfort operating vessels manually while supporting autonomous system testing and development.

You will work closely with engineering, field operations, and customers to ensure safe, efficient vessel operations both on and off the water, with travel to support projects domestically and

Qualifications

• USCG Merchant Mariner Credential required.
• 3+ years operating commercial or government vessels.
• Strong knowledge of navigation, seamanship, COLREGS, and marine safety.
• Experience operating vessels in varying weather and sea conditions.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot marine systems.
• Comfortable using marine electronics including GPS, radar, AIS, and chart plotters.
• Excellent communication and documentation skills.
• Valid passport and willingness to travel up to 40%.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate company vessels during testing, demonstrations, customer trials, and training.
• Conduct pre‑departure inspections and ensure vessels are ready for operation.
• Monitor vessel systems, propulsion, navigation equipment, and autonomous control systems during operations.
• Execute test plans and operational procedures while collecting accurate test data.
• Assist engineers with integration, commissioning, and validation of new hardware and software.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and document vessel or system issues encountered during operations.
• Support launch, recovery, transport, and storage of vessels and equipment.
• Coordinate with regulatory agencies, marinas, ports, and support vessels when required.
• Ensure compliance with all USCG regulations and company safety procedures.
• Assist with customer demonstrations, training events, and field deployments.
• Travel domestically and internationally to support vessel operations and customer projects.

Skills

USCG Credential

Vessel operation experience

Navigation & seamanship

Weather readiness

Mechanical troubleshooting

Marine electronics (GPS, radar, AIS)

Communication & docs

Travel willingness 40%

Job description

Sea Machines Robotics seeks a hands-on Vessel Operator to support the operation, testing, and deployment of autonomous vessels. This role blends traditional seamanship with advanced marine technology, requiring comfort operating vessels manually while supporting autonomous system testing and development.

You will work closely with engineering, field operations, and customers to ensure safe, efficient vessel operations both on and off the water, with travel to support projects domestically and