USV Maintenance & Autonomous Ops Specialist

Socket.dev; Virginia Beach (VA); On-site; USD 125,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid leave

Retirement plan

Job summary

SMX seeks a USV Craft Maintainer and Operator at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek, VA. Responsible for maintenance, readiness, operation, and mission rehearsal of USV training craft in a maritime environment.

The role requires DoD SECRET clearance with US citizenship and onsite work at Little Creek. Expect hands-on troubleshooting, software updates, and close coordination with Navy technical leads.

Qualifications

• Experience with Linux-based systems and CLI
• Experience maintaining marine or unmanned platforms a plus
• Ability to read wiring diagrams and schematics
• Familiarity with autonomy platforms or mission-planning tools
• Experience documenting maintenance actions and configurations
• Strong safety, accountability, and readiness mindset

Responsibilities

• Perform preventative and corrective maintenance on USV training craft
• Execute PMS cycles: lubrication, oil changes, filters, belts, hoses
• Conduct freshwater flushes, fuel stabilization, battery preservation
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and software issues
• Interpret wiring diagrams and system configuration docs
• Run pre/post-operational checks and mission-ready status
• Implement software/firmware updates and verify baselines
• Monitor status remotely during training events
• Coordinate with Navy leads and SMX to report readiness
• Maintain logs, discrepancy reports, and configuration records
• Support field deployments and waterfront operations

Skills

Linux-based systems

Command-line proficiency

Networking basics

Marine craft maintenance

Autonomy systems knowledge

GPS/telemetry understanding

Documentation and record keeping

Safety and compliance mindset

Tools

ArduPilot

Onboard computing

Job description

SMX seeks a USV Craft Maintainer and Operator at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek, VA. Responsible for maintenance, readiness, operation, and mission rehearsal of USV training craft in a maritime environment.

The role requires DoD SECRET clearance with US citizenship and onsite work at Little Creek. Expect hands-on troubleshooting, software updates, and close coordination with Navy technical leads.