Job DescriptionDescription We are looking for a hands-on
Controls and Systems Integration Engineer to support advanced unmanned maritime systems programs for the U.S. Navy in
San Diego, CA.
This is a practical, systems-level engineering role for someone who enjoys making complex electromechanical systems work in the real world. You will work across vehicle controls, embedded and networked systems, power distribution, sensors, autonomy support, and field operations - often within the same day.
The ideal candidate is technically broad, comfortable bridging software and hardware, and brings enough hands-on experience to contribute quickly. You don't need to be an expert in every subsystem, but you should be the kind of engineer who can dig into a problem, read the documentation, inspect the wiring, check the network traffic, write a test script, and keep working until the system makes sense.
This is an ON-SITE role in San Diego, CA. Travel: Occasional field tests, sea trials, and shipboard events as needed.JOB DUTIES: - Integrate, test, and troubleshoot control systems for unmanned maritime vehicles and their subsystems - including propulsion, steering, power management, and payloads.
- Write and modify Python and C/C++ code for controls, hardware integration, test automation, and data logging.
- Work with Linux-based systems, networked devices, serial and CAN bus hardware, and embedded computers.
- Support integration and troubleshooting of vehicle networks involving PLCs, HMIs, navigation sensors, cameras, and control computers.
- Assist with electrical troubleshooting across DC and AC power systems, including propulsion drives, battery systems, and power distribution.
- Plan and execute bench, dockside, and field tests; document results and support anomaly resolution.
- Support government test events, sea trials, and operational demonstrations.
- Work directly with engineers, technicians, operators, and government customers to solve problems quickly and safely.
Qualifications REQUIREMENTS:Education:
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, Controls, or a related technical discipline and five (5) years or more related experience.
Clearance:
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must have an Active Secret Clearance to start.
Experience:
- Hands-on experience with controls, robotics, automation, embedded systems, or complex electromechanical equipment.
- Working knowledge of Python and familiarity with C/C++.
- Experience working in a Linux environment.
- Familiarity with autonomous systems or robotic platforms - whether through coursework, research, or professional experience.
- Ability to troubleshoot problems that span software, electronics, and hardware in a lab or field environment.
- Ability to read schematics, wiring diagrams, and network diagrams.
DESIRED SKILLS: - Experience with unmanned systems - UUVs, USVs, AUVs, ROVs, sUAS, or autonomous ground vehicles.
- Familiarity with ROS or other robotics/autonomy middleware.
- Experience with PLCs, CAN bus, or industrial communication protocols.
- Exposure to marine electronics, navigation sensors, or networked vehicle systems.
- Experience with power systems - batteries, inverters, generators, or electric propulsion.
Target salary range: $120,001 - $160,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.
Overview SAIC accepts applications on an ongoing basis and there is no deadline.
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.