Machinist, Waterjet Operator

Job Description

Job Description

About Us

With more than 2 million nautical miles sailed and 50,000 days at sea, Saildrone has earned the trust of governments worldwide. Our unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) deliver continuous, real-time intelligence in the toughest oceans on Earth—giving our partners faster awareness, stronger security, and a decisive edge at sea.

Our USVs are long-range, extreme-endurance platforms powered by advanced sensors and proprietary AI - they have been designed to operate where no crewed vessel can. They collect critical insights above and below the surface to support border security, law enforcement, naval operations, and undersea infrastructure protection.

Headquartered in Alameda, CA, with offices in Washington, DC, and global deployment hubs, Saildrone operates missions worldwide. Join a fast-moving, mission-driven team at the intersection of AI, autonomy, and defense technology—where data turns into intelligence, and intelligence drives action.

The Role

Saildrone is seeking a skilled Machinist / Waterjet Operator to join our small but mighty fabrication team. You will collaborate with experienced fabricators and engineers to produce precision parts that support prototype development and fleet production of Saildrone’s Uncrewed Surface Vehicles (USVs).

This position will lead waterjet cutting operations and support a wide range of fabrication needs. You’ll be responsible for programming, setup, and operation of the waterjet system, maintaining equipment, and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives. The role reports directly to the Fabrication Shop Manager as part of the greater Production team.

We are a fast-paced, change-prone organization seeking a proactive and detail-oriented machinist who takes pride in craftsmanship and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Interpret and work from CAD models and technical drawings created by the engineering team.
• Set up, program, and operate OMAX waterjet cutting system to produce precision parts for prototype and production builds.
• Input cutting parameters, nesting layouts, material thickness, and kerf offsets into the control software to achieve optimal cut quality and efficiency.
• Load and secure materials, monitor cutting operations, and make real-time adjustments to ensure parts meet dimensional specifications.
• Perform part inspections using precision measurement tools to verify conformance to engineering drawings.
• Maintain proper records of jobs, materials, and machine settings for repeatability and traceability.
• Identify and implement opportunities for process improvement, including new tooling, fixturing, or material utilization strategies.
• Conduct routine maintenance, cleaning, and minor repairs on the waterjet and related support equipment.
• Support general fabrication tasks, including deburring, sanding, light machining, and assembly.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Meet required timelines and production schedules.

Desired Experience

Physical Requirements

Location : This position is in Alameda, CA. Our waterfront office offers beautiful views of San Francisco Bay in always-sunny Alameda.

All employees are required to provide proof of authorization to work in the U.S. within their first 3 days of work. Please note that the Company does not sponsor employees for work visas or permanent resident cards to work in the U.S. If you need sponsorship for a work visa or green card, you will not be qualified for employment with Saildrone.

Benefits :

The salary range for this role is $37.07 - $41.88 hourly.

Individual compensation packages are based on geographic location, scope of the role, and relevant experience, among other factors.

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.

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