Support Vessel Operator , Marine Operations

RED CAT HOLDINGS•Fort Pierce, FL

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Blue Ops, a Red Cat company, is seeking a hands-on, technically minded Support Vessel Operator to support field testing, validation, and continuous improvement of Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) in Fort Pierce, Florida. This field-focused position combines small-craft operation, maritime testing, technical troubleshooting, and data collection to help ensure autonomous surface vessels perform reliably and safely in real-world conditions. The operator works closely with Marine Operations, End-of-Line Technicians, and Engineering teams to conduct on-water testing, evaluate system performance, identify technical issues, and provide actionable feedback that supports product development and operational readiness. The role includes operating support craft, preparing and maintaining vessels and equipment, collecting and reporting test data, and following safety and environmental requirements. Work takes place outdoors in changing marine conditions and can involve physically demanding tasks for up to 12 hours per day. The position is based in Fort Pierce, Florida, with travel to other designated testing locations as required. It requires a post-offer background check and, because of ITAR/EAR-controlled access, proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residence and no need for sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization. Compensation includes base pay, an annual equity package, and potential bonuses; the salary range is undisclosed.

Requirements

At least two years of experience working in a marine environment.
Hands-on experience operating USVs and small RIB support craft.
Ability to operate small vessels safely and effectively in real-world maritime conditions.
Technical aptitude for testing and troubleshooting mechanical, electrical, and software-based systems.
Familiarity with maritime navigation and onboard systems, including GPS, radar, AIS, cameras, and related sensors.
Ability to identify field issues, conduct initial diagnostics, and coordinate resolution with technical personnel.
Experience collecting, recording, and interpreting test data with appropriate instrumentation and diagnostic tools.
Strong problem-solving skills and sound decision-making in time-sensitive field environments.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear test reports and provide detailed technical feedback.
Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to designated testing locations as required.
Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in varying weather and environmental conditions.
Willingness and ability to perform hands-on vessel preparation, equipment handling, maintenance, and transport.
Ability to perform physically demanding work for up to 12 hours per day, including lifting, carrying, pushing, and moving items weighing up to 20 pounds.
Ability to stand and walk for up to 12 hours per day on vessel decks and varied or uneven terrain; frequently bend, lift, reach overhead, stoop, squat, kneel, crouch, twist, crawl, and work in confined or awkward positions.
Ability to install and remove vehicle components, climb ladders and access platforms or elevated structures, and safely handle tools for mechanical fastening tasks.
Ability to identify process issues and respond to safety signals using sight, touch, and hearing.
Ability to work around hazardous materials when necessary and follow handling, storage, and waste-disposal procedures.
Ability to wear required PPE, including safety glasses, safety footwear, hearing protection, and gloves.
Successful completion of a post-offer background check.
For work subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions, proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residence and no need for sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization.

Nice To Haves

Experience with marine vehicles, robotics, unmanned systems, autonomous platforms, or field-testing programs.
Valid U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Master license.
Familiarity with autonomous vehicle control software, mission-planning tools, and remote monitoring interfaces.
Experience supporting research, development, testing, and evaluation of marine or robotic systems.
Knowledge of applicable maritime safety requirements and environmental regulations for on-water testing.
Experience working with engineering teams to document defects, validate corrective actions, and improve system reliability.

Responsibilities

Conduct on-water testing of USVs and support vessels at the Fort Pierce test location and other designated sites.
Evaluate vessel performance in changing weather, water conditions, currents, and navigational environments.
Operate small rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) and other support craft for USV deployment, recovery, observation, and testing.
Execute test scenarios assessing autonomous navigation, maneuverability, obstacle avoidance, and overall system performance.
Monitor vessel behavior and identify anomalies, operational limitations, and opportunities for improvement.
Collaborate with Engineering and End-of-Line Technicians to plan tests, establish parameters, and validate system performance.
Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, sensor, communications, and software-related issues encountered during field testing.
Identify, isolate, and document system faults, coordinate corrective actions, and support verification and regression testing after repairs, configuration changes, or software updates.
Provide actionable field feedback to support product development, design improvements, and system reliability.
Collect and analyze field-test data on navigation accuracy, battery performance, sensor functionality, communications, and autonomous decision-making.
Use test instrumentation, diagnostic tools, and software interfaces to monitor and record performance.
Maintain accurate test logs, observations, performance records, and issue-tracking documentation; develop and follow standardized test procedures.
Prepare reports communicating findings, trends, and recommendations to Engineering and Marine Operations leadership.
Prepare USVs, support vessels, and equipment for testing; perform pre-deployment inspections and verify operational readiness.
Perform routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting, and assist with equipment handling, loading, transport, deployment, and recovery.
Coordinate with End-of-Line Technicians to resolve outstanding issues and confirm readiness before testing.
Keep work areas organized and tools, equipment, and test materials properly stored and accounted for.
Follow safety procedures, maritime requirements, and environmental regulations; perform safety checks, identify hazards, maintain situational awareness, and follow emergency and incident-reporting procedures.
Use required personal protective equipment and conduct testing responsibly in changing environmental conditions.