Marine ASV Specialist

Ocean Power Technologies Inc is seeking a Marine ASV Specialist in Richmond, CA. The role involves deploying, maintaining, and operating WAM-V autonomous surface vehicles for various clients. Responsibilities include technical support, troubleshooting, and conducting demonstrations. Candidates should have experience with unmanned surface vehicles, boating, and electro-mechanical systems. Strong communication skills and the ability to work independently are essential. A valid U.S. passport and driver's license are required.
Marine ASV (Autonomous Surface Vehicle) Specialist

About Ocean Power Technologies

Ocean Power Technologies, Inc. (OPT) delivers cutting-edge maritime solutions that enhance safety, sustainability, and efficiency in defense, offshore energy, research, and commercial applications. Our PowerBuoy® platforms provide clean, reliable power and real-time data communications for remote maritime and subsea operations. We also design, deploy, and support WAM-V® autonomous surface vessels (ASVs), leading marine robotics innovation worldwide.

Our headquarters is in Monroe Township, New Jersey, with an office in Richmond, California. Learn more at OceanPowerTechnologies.com.

The Role: Marine ASV Specialist

We are looking for a highly skilled Marine ASV Specialist who is passionate about marine robotics and ocean operations. This role is essential in supporting commercial, federal, and defense projects by deploying, maintaining, and operating WAM-V ASVs.

As a key member of the Robotics as a Service (RaaS) team, you will work closely with customers, engineers, and field operators, ensuring seamless deployments, technical support, and hands-on operation of WAM-V ASVs. This role is customer-facing, requiring strong technical expertise, professional communication, and a proactive problem-solving mindset.

If you're an experienced mariner, technician, or robotics professional with a strong background in ASVs, we want to hear from you!

Key Responsibilities
• Operate and maintain WAM-Vs in domestic and international locations for commercial, research, and defense clients.
• Ensure the entire RaaS fleet is properly maintained and deployment-ready.
• Provide remote and on-site technical support for WAM-V clients.
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and control system issues, making repairs or modifications in the field as needed.
• Work closely with engineering teams to assist with R&D projects, prototyping, and testing of autonomous marine systems.
• Conduct product demonstrations, customer training, and technical workshops to showcase WAM-V capabilities.
• Assist with packing, shipping, and logistics for WAM-Vs and associated equipment.
• Follow best practices for safe marine operations and uncrewed system deployments.
• Set up and maintain workstations, tools, and equipment in both field and workshop environments.

Required Qualifications

✔ Minimum 1 year of hands-on experience working with Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs/ASVs) in industry, military, or government settings.
✔ Minimum 2 years of boating experience, including:
• Coastal operations and small boat handling
• Docking, trailering, and vessel maintenance
• Outboard engine troubleshooting and repair

✔ Strong background in electro-mechanical systems, PCB handling, and low-voltage electronics.
✔ Proficiency with mechanical and electrical assembly for marine vessels.
✔ Experience with hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic equipment.
✔ Ability to work independently while knowing when to seek input or assistance.
✔ Excellent communication skills (both written and verbal).
✔ Valid U.S. Passport (for international travel).
✔ Valid U.S. Driver’s License (for domestic travel).
✔ Ability to attain U.S. security clearance if required.

Preferred Qualifications (Nice to Have)
• Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Marine Engineering (Associate's/Bachelor’s) or a related technical field.
• Experience with hydrographic survey and sonar systems, including:
• Precision GPS
• Multi-beam sonar
• Side-scan sonar
• Sub-bottom profilers
• Networking & Communications Knowledge: LAN, WAN, IP radio, cellular, and satellite communications.
• Experience with Lithium Batteries and associated safety/shipping protocols
• Linux & Windows Command Line Experience (for system troubleshooting).
• Proficiency with technical documentation (Microsoft Office or similar).
• Hands-on experience with remote field operations in challenging environments

Travel

Position requires 50% to 75% travel

This is a full-time position with a preference for on-site work in Richmond, California. (Hybrid/Remote candidates will be considered)

Ocean Power Technologies provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, and pregnancy-related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, genetic information, service in the military, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances. Equal employment opportunity applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training.