Production Technician, Harness Assembly

THE COMPANY

Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV manufacturer or operator, Saildrone maintains active, combat-deployed systems supporting national security and force projection around the world, 24/7/365. 

Saildrone's manufacturing and R&D headquarters are located in Alameda, CA, with business development and sales operations in Washington, DC, and deployment hubs in Europe and the Middle East. By combining proven autonomous operations, edge computing, advanced sensing, renewable power, and the most advanced and robust unmanned surface technology on the planet, Saildrone is shaping how the Navy of the future operates. Join a fast-moving, mission-driven team at the forefront of maritime security and autonomous innovation.

THE POSITION

Saildrone is seeking a Production Technician to join our Harness Assembly team. Reporting directly to the Manager, Production Assembly, you will play a vital role in assembling harnesses to support subsystems for our ocean going vehicles. These subsystems include cameras, actuators, and battery systems. Your responsibilities will encompass a range of tasks, including soldering, crimped harness assembly, and testing. Whether you're working on a one-off prototype or a production batch, your attention to detail and commitment to quality will be essential. We are looking for a skilled individual to interpret engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, and work instructions accurately while maintaining a well-organized workspace. Collaboration and problem-solving will be key as you work alongside the Production Team to build innovative and high-quality products.

THE TEAM

The Harness Assembly team is responsible for assembling high quality internal and deck harnesses for all drone platforms. We are focused on delivering all builds to meet mission timelines and ensure that all materials meet engineering and IPC 620 specifications to ensure high reliability of our autonomous systems. 

THE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assemble new products with limited work instructions or working directly from harness drawings.
• Build critically, ultimately being able to recognize when to stop and ask questions by drawing on previous experience.
• Maintain high-quality of work at all times, prioritizing attention to detail above all else
• Interpret and follow engineering drawings, wiring schematics, and work instructions
• Foster a safe, clean, and healthy work environment in adherence to company policies.
• Update and maintain records of test results and inspection procedures.
• Actively contribute ideas for process improvement to enhance quality and production efficiency.
• Monitor and maintain equipment to ensure proper functioning and report issues to manufacturing engineering or management for resolution.
• Foresee production problems ahead of time, ie: calling out low inventory items, suggesting new tools/jigs, flagging issues seen during assembly to management or Lead. 

THE QUALIFICATIONS

• 2-4 years work experience in a production assembly environment - with a focus on harness and wiring work

• Has experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Harnesses assembly - soldering, variety of connector types, hand crimpers, automated crimpers, and stripping tools

• Basic understanding of CAN/BUS systems 

• Knowledge of multimeter/continuity testing and measuring devices

• Basic understanding of torque wrenches and torque values

• Experience with cable potting process

• Ideally completion of formal certification in electronics or engineering, typically industry apprenticeship, AA degree, or Bachelor's degree. IPC 620 knowledge a plus, but not required

• Strong communication skills and team player.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to sit for extended periods of up to 8 hours per shift.
• Capable of lifting and carrying materials weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Good manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination. 
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks with attention to detail.
• Comfortable working in various environmental conditions, including noise and moderate temperature changes.
• Ability to follow safety protocols and wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Working onsite in our Alameda HQ, 5-days per week. 

The base salary range for this position is shown below. Actual compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and qualifications. This range reflects the base salary for candidates in states requiring pay transparency disclosure.

Salary Range

$30.24-$47.74 USD

To view Saildrone's candidate privacy policy, please visit: https://www.saildrone.com/privacy.

BENEFITS

At Saildrone, we're building operational capability that matters-and that requires people who can do their best work over the long term. We invest in our team's well-being, financial security, and professional growth so you can focus on delivering real-world impact with confidence and stability. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support you and your family while you contribute to a mission with lasting significance. 

• Generous Time Off: Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual plus a robust annual holiday schedule and paid sick leave ensure you can rest, reset, and sustain performance over time.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Premium, multi-tier Medical, Dental, and Vision plans with significant company contributions for employees and dependents-providing security and peace of mind.
• Shared Ownership in the Mission: Equity grants are a core part of our compensation, allowing you to participate in the long-term value you help create through meaningful, operational work.
• Retirement Savings: Access to a 401(k) retirement plan with flexible pre-tax and Roth payroll contribution options supports long-term financial planning.
• Investment in Your Growth: We support your continuous learning through an annual professional development reimbursement program, empowering you to sharpen your skills and stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving field.
• Relocation Support: For eligible roles, we offer relocation assistance to help bring the world's best talent to our mission-critical locations.

Saildrone is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.