This listing pays about $147,500 a year. Across 80 open senior mechanical engineer listings that state pay, the middle half runs $150,000 to $173,000 and the median is $164,000. That is 10% below the median, below the middle half of those listings.

Listed pay is what employers advertise, not what people are paid.

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How AI is used in this kind of work

AI use among mechanical engineers is little observed so far. Measured exposure for mechanical engineers: 8% (little observed).

Share of this job’s tasks that AI is already used for at work, from real usage. It is not a forecast of job loss, and a low number means no use seen yet. Source: Anthropic Economic Index.

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About the job

THE COMPANY

Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV manufacturer or operator, Saildrone maintains active, combat-deployed systems supporting national security and force projection around the world, 24/7/365.

Saildrone’s manufacturing and R&D headquarters are located in Alameda, CA, with business development and sales operations in Washington, DC, an established European entity supporting regional business development, sales, and operations, and a deployment hub in the Middle East. By combining proven autonomous operations, edge computing, advanced sensing, renewable power, and the most advanced and robust unmanned surface technology on the planet, Saildrone is shaping how the Navy of the future operates. Join a fast-moving, mission-driven team at the forefront of maritime security and autonomous innovation.

THE POSITION

Saildrone is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to join our Mechanical Design team. Reporting directly to the Engineering Manager, you will play a critical role in owning the mechanical design and end-to-end development of complex components, mechanisms, and assemblies for our autonomous surface vehicles. We are looking for a hands-on technical expert who thrives in a fast-paced R&D and manufacturing environment, driving projects from early concept through full production.

THE TEAM

The Mechanical Design team within Hardware Engineering is responsible for the mechanical, structural, and electro-mechanical systems that power our uncrewed surface vehicles. We are focused on delivering robust, ocean-ready autonomous hardware to support critical missions across maritime domain awareness, ocean mapping, and national security environments.

THE RESPONSIBILITIES

Own the design, development, and delivery of complex electro-mechanical parts, assemblies, and associated tooling from initial concept through production.

Define and communicate system-level requirements across mechanical, electrical, and software engineering disciplines while creating detailed system diagrams and models.

Develop detailed 3D CAD models, maintain accurate Bills of Materials (BOMs), and produce detailed technical drawings.

Perform and review engineering hand calculations, fluid/thermal analyses, and test data to de-risk designs and validate vehicle performance.

Fabricate proof-of-concept prototypes and tooling utilizing basic shop skills including manual machining, drilling, bonding, and welding.

Partner with Electrical Engineering to review wiring harness designs and coordinate with Project Managers to maintain development schedules.

Uphold drafting standards and promote technical excellence across the mechanical engineering team.

THE QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or an equivalent engineering discipline (or equivalent practical field experience).

10+ years of hands-on professional experience driving mechanical component and system design in Marine, Aerospace, Automotive, or related industries.

Demonstrated expertise designing for diverse manufacturing processes, including CNC machining, composite layups, sheet metal, castings, 3D printing, welding, and structural bonding.

Advanced experience with CAD software packages (Siemens NX strongly preferred) and strong fundamentals of mechanical design concepts.

Demonstrated understanding of mechanics, electrical circuits, fluid systems, and thermodynamics.

Practical machine shop skills, including hands-on experience with manual machining, drilling, bonding, and welding equipment.

Proven track record of navigating fast-paced R&D and manufacturing settings, with experience working directly with fabrication shops and contract manufacturers.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Physical Strength & Agility: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, bend, kneel, and stand for extended periods during testing, assembly, and shop operations.

Manual Precision: High manual dexterity to operate basic hand, fabrication, and machine shop tools safely during prototyping.

Environmental Adaptability: Comfort working in dynamic lab, manufacturing shop, and waterfront operational environments.

The base salary range for this position is shown below. Actual compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and qualifications. This range reflects the base salary for candidates in states requiring pay transparency disclosure.

Salary Range $135,000 — $160,000 USD

To view Saildrone's candidate privacy policy, please visit: https://www.saildrone.com/privacy-policy .

BENEFITS

At Saildrone, we’re building operational capability that matters—and that requires people who can do their best work over the long term. We invest in our team’s well-being, financial security, and professional growth so you can focus on delivering real-world impact with confidence and stability. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support you and your family while you contribute to a mission with lasting significance.

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.

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.