Support Vessel Deckhand

Saildrone

2d • $67,950 - $84,900 • Onsite

About The Position

Saildrone is seeking a Deckhand to join our Fleet Management team. Reporting to the Captain, you will play a critical role in supporting vessel operations and enabling rapid, safe, and reliable on-water support for Saildrone’s autonomous surface vehicles. We are looking for a disciplined maritime professional who operates safely under pressure and is comfortable with the expeditionary nature of this role, including short-notice deployments and physically demanding in-water work. This is a rotational role that will be living aboard the support vessel. This exempt position works a rotation based schedule of 6 weeks on, 3 weeks off.

Requirements

• Prior experience in yachts, commercial, offshore, or heavy maritime operations; offshore experience is highly preferred.
• Ability to perform work for up to 12 hours per day; must be able to lift 75 lbs and stand for extended periods in extreme weather.
• Proficiency in rigging, splicing, and small boat operations; basic mechanical experience preferred.
• Must be "fit for work" by demonstrating the ability to swim and tread water in open-sea conditions.
• Current First Aid and CPR; Merchant Mariner Credential and STCW.
• USCG Masters License; SCUBA certification a significant plus.
• Valid Passport and TWIC card (or ability to obtain); ability to obtain a foreign VISA (as required), U.S. Citizenship required.
• Ability to pass a background check and USCG/DOT drug screening; USCG Medical; Spanish speaking is a plus.
• Must be able to stand, walk, use hands to grasp, push and pull, bend, lift up to 75 lbs and reach with your hands and arms.
• Must be able to perform work on a computer that requires ability to operate a keyboard and other peripheral devices.
• Must be able to confirm as “fit for work” by demonstrating ability to swim and tread water
• Must be able to stand navigational watch for up to 6 hours.
• Will be exposed to marine environments, including sun, wind, rain, cold, and saltwater spray, often for extended periods.
• Must be able to operate in daylight, low-light, and night conditions using marine navigation systems and visual cues.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work for extended periods of time, up to 12 hours/day.

Nice To Haves

• Offshore experience is highly preferred.
• Basic mechanical experience preferred.
• USCG Masters License; SCUBA certification a significant plus.
• Spanish speaking is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a high state of readiness with the ability to be underway upon notification from Fleet Management.
• Execute deck operations including mooring, long-distance towing (300+ nautical miles), and complex launch and recovery of USVs.
• Serve as the primary swimmer (or swimmer support) for underwater repairs, hull inspections, and clearing fouled components at sea.
• Ensure the support vessel remains in pristine condition through performing oil and filter changes, general deck maintenance and projects, painting, polishing, hull and bilge cleaning; assist with fuel bunkering and USV fueling operations.
• Stand navigational watches of up to 6 hours in daylight, low-light, and night conditions using marine navigation systems.
• Support field technicians with repair work conducted both on the water and at remote land-based service locations on an as needed basis.
• Participate in rigorous safety drills and emergency protocols; ensure the deck is clear of obstacles and safety equipment is mission-ready.
• Provide clear, real-time updates on vessel status, weather conditions, and mission risks during extended voyages.

Benefits

• Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual plus a robust annual holiday schedule and paid sick leave
• Premium, multi-tier Medical, Dental, and Vision plans with significant company contributions for employees and dependents
• Equity grants
• Access to a 401(k) retirement plan with flexible pre-tax and Roth payroll contribution options
• Annual professional development reimbursement program
• Relocation assistance for eligible roles

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed