Support Vessel Operator , Marine Operations

Support Vessel Operator, Marine Operations

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 our Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) in Fort Pierce, Florida.

This field-focused position combines small-craft operation, maritime testing, technical troubleshooting, and data collection to ensure autonomous surface vessels perform reliably and safely in real-world operating conditions. The successful candidate will work 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 ideal candidate has practical experience operating small boats and unmanned surface vessels, strong technical problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently in dynamic outdoor environments. This role is well suited for someone who enjoys hands-on maritime operations and wants to contribute directly to the development and testing of advanced autonomous marine technology.

Key Responsibilities

1. Field-Based Vessel Testing

• Conduct on-water testing of USVs and associated support vessels at the Fort Pierce, Florida, test location and other designated sites.
• Evaluate vessel performance in varying environmental conditions, including changing weather, water conditions, currents, and navigational obstacles.
• Operate small rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) and other support craft to facilitate USV deployment, recovery, observation, and testing.
• Execute assigned test scenarios to evaluate autonomous navigation, maneuverability, obstacle avoidance, and overall system performance.
• Monitor vessel behavior throughout testing and identify anomalies, operational limitations, and opportunities for improvement.

2. Engineering Collaboration and Technical Troubleshooting

• Work closely with Engineering and End-of-Line Technicians to plan test activities, establish test parameters, and validate system performance.
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, sensor, communications, and software-related issues encountered during field testing.
• Assist with the identification, isolation, and documentation of system faults and coordinate corrective actions with the appropriate technical teams.
• Provide clear, actionable field feedback to support product development, design improvements, and system reliability.
• Support verification and regression testing following repairs, configuration changes, or software updates.

3. Data Collection, Analysis, and Reporting

• Collect and analyze field-test data relating to navigation accuracy, battery performance, sensor functionality, communications, and autonomous decision-making.
• Use appropriate test instrumentation, diagnostic tools, and software interfaces to monitor and record vessel performance.
• Maintain accurate test logs, observations, performance records, and issue-tracking documentation.
• Develop and follow standardized test procedures and document test results, anomalies, and corrective actions.
• Prepare comprehensive reports that communicate findings, identify trends, and recommend improvements to Engineering and Marine Operations leadership.

4. Vessel Preparation, Maintenance, and Logistics

• Prepare USVs, support vessels, and associated equipment for scheduled field-testing activities.
• Conduct pre-deployment inspections and verify the readiness of vessels, batteries, sensors, communications equipment, and test instrumentation.
• Perform routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting to maintain operational readiness.
• Assist with the handling, loading, transport, deployment, and recovery of vessels and equipment.
• Coordinate with End-of-Line Technicians to resolve outstanding issues and confirm readiness before testing.
• Maintain an organized work area and ensure tools, equipment, and test materials are properly stored and accounted for.

5. Safety and Environmental Compliance

• Conduct all field-testing activities in accordance with established safety procedures, applicable maritime requirements, and environmental regulations.
• Perform pre-operation safety checks and identify potential hazards before vessel deployment and testing.
• Maintain situational awareness while operating support craft and working around autonomous vessels, moving equipment, and other waterway traffic.
• Follow established procedures for emergency response, equipment handling, and the reporting of incidents or near misses.
• Use required personal protective equipment and ensure testing activities are conducted responsibly in changing environmental conditions.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of two years of experience working in a marine environment.
• Hands-on experience operating Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) and small rigid inflatable boat (RIB) support craft.
• Demonstrated ability to operate small vessels safely and effectively in real-world maritime conditions.
• Strong technical aptitude for testing and troubleshooting mechanical, electrical, and software-based systems.
• Familiarity with maritime navigation and onboard systems, including GPS, radar, Automatic Identification System (AIS), cameras, and related sensors.
• Ability to identify technical issues in the field, conduct initial diagnostics, and coordinate resolution with technical personnel.
• Experience collecting, recording, and interpreting test data using appropriate instrumentation and diagnostic tools.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make sound decisions in time-sensitive field environments.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to produce clear test reports and provide detailed technical feedback.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• 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.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

This position requires extended periods of hands-on work in outdoor marine environments and the ability to perform physically demanding tasks for up to 12 hours per day.

• Frequently and repetitively lift, push, and carry items weighing up to 20 pounds.
• Carry items weighing up to 20 pounds up and down stairs.
• Work outdoors for extended periods in sun, rain, cold, heat, humidity, wind, and saltwater spray.
• Stand and walk for up to 12 hours per day, including 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.
• Install and remove vehicle components of varying sizes and weights while meeting established quality and timing requirements.
• Climb ladders and access platforms or elevated structures while maintaining balance and following safety procedures.
• Identify process issues and respond appropriately to safety signals using sight, touch, and hearing.
• Safely handle tools and perform mechanical fastening tasks, including tightening bolts to specified requirements.
• Work around hazardous materials when necessary and comply with applicable handling, storage, and waste-disposal procedures.
• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, safety footwear, hearing protection, and gloves.
• Background Check
• This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.
• EEO and ITAR/EAR Work Authorization Disclosure
• Red Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration