Staff Software Engineer, Security

Saildrone • Columbia, CA

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

Saildrone is seeking a Software Engineer to join its Security team. The role involves designing and operating security systems, advising product teams on security decisions, evaluating vendor products, identifying weaknesses, and responding to emerging threats. The engineer will take end-to-end ownership of security in complex, distributed environments.

Saildrone’s Security team protects its fleet, systems, and customer data across global maritime operations. The position is hybrid and requires onsite work three days per week in Washington, DC (Metrocenter) or Alameda, California; it is not remote.

Requirements

• At least 8 years of progressive, applicable experience.
• A bachelor’s degree in a computer-related engineering field, such as computer science or computer engineering, or equivalent experience.
• Proficiency in at least two of Python, C/C++, TypeScript, and Go, plus one other language.
• Familiarity with infrastructure automation frameworks such as Ansible, Terraform, or Puppet.
• Proficiency with Kubernetes and container technologies.
• Previous security experience, such as security development, infrastructure security, or security operations.

Nice To Haves

• An advanced degree in a computer-related engineering field, such as computer science or computer engineering.
• Familiarity with cloud providers and their services, especially Amazon Web Services.
• Familiarity with PKI standards and applied cryptography.
• Familiarity with IoT or robotics technologies, including firmware, CAN architectures, or real-time operating systems.
• Experience with FedRAMP, CMMC, or other government cybersecurity standards.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, and operate automated security systems for drones and shore-side infrastructure.
• Review designs and code from other engineering teams to identify security defects.
• Respond to security incidents as part of a rotating on-call schedule.
• Assist with compliance audits, including standards such as NIST 800-171 or ISO 27001.
• Test the company’s security posture manually and with automated methods, including tabletop exercises, penetration tests, and offensive scanners.
• Collaborate with teams across the company to achieve security goals.

Benefits

• Competitive paid time off accrual, an annual holiday schedule, and paid sick leave.
• Medical, dental, and vision plans with company contributions for employees and dependents.
• Equity grants.
• 401(k) retirement plan with pre-tax and Roth payroll contribution options.
• Annual professional development reimbursement.
• Relocation assistance for eligible roles.

What This Job Offers

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