Senior Manager, Embedded Linux & Infrastructure

Saildrone • Alameda, CA

45d • Hybrid

About The Position

Saildrone is seeking a Senior Manager to lead our Vehicle Infrastructure team. Reporting to the Director of Software Engineering, you will drive your team’s growth while ensuring the successful execution of the roadmap in alignment with software, firmware, and hardware teams, as well as overall business objectives. We are looking for a technical leader who creates clarity from ambiguity, drives rigorous engineering execution, and builds high-performing teams in fast-moving, mission-critical environments.
This role is required to be onsite in Alameda, CA in the Bay Area 3 days per week - this is our hybrid model. This is not a remote position.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or a related technical field.
• 8+ years of experience in embedded software, infrastructure systems, or systems engineering, with at least 1+ years of experience leading technical teams.
• Demonstrated proficiency in Embedded Linux (Yocto preferred), C/C++ debugging, and scripting languages such as Python and Bash to automate diagnostics.
• Proven ability to diagnose complex networking issues in high-latency/low-bandwidth environments using tools like tcpdump, Wireshark, and iperf.
• Ability to clearly communicate technical tradeoffs across hardware-software interfaces, including power requirements, thermal constraints, and data-pipe limitations.
• Ability to work effectively in lab and shop environments, with hands-on experience involving SBCs, wiring, and power supplies.
• Working knowledge of networking protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, CAN, Ethernet) and hardware-level communication standards required for autonomous maritime systems.
• Experience integrating Nvidia embedded systems or perception payloads (cameras, LIDAR) for real-time video processing and data streaming.

Responsibilities

• Onboard Infrastructure Delivery: Lead the design, development, and delivery of onboard software and networking infrastructure, ensuring Linux OS and driver integration meet performance and reliability targets.
• System Architecture: Be accountable for the onboard software stack architecture, including ownership of IP-networking strategies, multi-egress routing optimization, and system configuration management.
• Cross-Functional Planning: Work closely with Technical Program Management, Hardware, and Firmware teams to align on Technical Roadmaps and ensure the successful delivery of integrated payload computes.
• Embedded System Bring-up: Carry out the bring-up and integration of new embedded Linux computers (Nvidia, NXP i.MX8) in accordance with Yocto-based build standards and engineering best practices.
• Risk & Performance Monitoring: Monitor for system-level constraints—such as variable latency connectivity and power consumption—taking action to mitigate risks and resolve technical blockers.
• Standardization & Quality: Adhere to and establish engineering standards for rigorous design and test, including kernel module integration and network-layer debugging.
• Metrics & Reporting: Provide timely updates on vehicle system performance metrics (uptime, data throughput, system health) to cross-functional stakeholders and leadership.
• Team Leadership & Talent: Perform all responsibilities related to building a high-performing team, including mentoring individual contributors and recruiting top-tier talent with deep expertise in embedded and networked systems.

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior