Mission Operator – Forward Deployed Engineer

Scout AI

. Lead forward-deployed operation of autonomous and semi-autonomous ground systems in complex, real-world environments, supporting customer-facing demonstrations and field evaluations .

Posted 11/4/2026full-timePaso Robles • California • United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $90,000 - $110,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in operating and maintaining autonomous and semi-autonomous ground systems in complex environments, with strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills. Capable of effective communication and coordination with stakeholders while ensuring safety and operational standards are met.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Autonomous System OperationsMechanical TroubleshootingElectrical TroubleshootingField Logistics CoordinationEffective Communication Under Pressure

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Off-Road DrivingRobotic Systems OperationField Equipment MaintenanceDynamic Environment AdaptationMission Test Planning

Soft Skills

Situational AwarenessSelf-DirectedAdaptabilityEnthusiasm for Field Missions

Tools & Technologies

Field Evaluation EquipmentAutonomous Ground Systems

Certifications & Qualifications

U.S. Top Secret Security Clearance

Industry Keywords

Defense ApplicationsSafety PracticesCustomer EngagementSystem Performance Monitoring

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead forward-deployed operation of autonomous and semi-autonomous ground systems in complex, real-world environments, supporting customer-facing demonstrations and field evaluations
Execute and adapt mission test plans in dynamic conditions, ensuring successful outcomes while maintaining strict safety and operational standards
Serve as the on-site technical authority during field operations, diagnosing and resolving mechanical, electrical, and software issues in real time
Interface directly with high-priority customers and stakeholders, briefing system capabilities, conducting live demonstrations, and representing product performance in the field
Coordinate end-to-end field logistics including system deployment, mobility, sustainment, and recovery across distributed test environments
Drive system readiness through hands-on maintenance, inspection, and rapid repair of vehicles, payloads, and supporting equipment
Capture and communicate actionable field insights to engineering and product teams, influencing system improvements and future development
Maintain operational awareness of system health, performance, and limitations to ensure mission success under austere conditions
Enforce and model disciplined safety practices for personnel, equipment, and autonomous system operations

Requirements

What you’ll need

Experience operating and sustaining vehicles, robotic systems, or complex field equipment in dynamic environments
Proficiency in off-road driving, trailering, and executing operations in austere or rugged conditions
Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills, with the ability to diagnose and resolve issues across hardware and software systems
High level of situational awareness with a disciplined approach to safety in field operations
Effective communicator under pressure, capable of coordinating with engineering teams and interfacing with customers in real time
Self-directed and adaptable, with the ability to operate independently in field-heavy, fast-paced environments
Willingness and enthusiasm to spend significant time outdoors supporting field missions and test operations
Mission-driven, with a strong interest in advancing autonomous systems for defense applications
Ability to travel 50–75% to support testing, deployments, and customer engagements
Must be a U.S. Person due to required access to U.S. export controlled information or facilities
Passion about defense of the United States and its allies
May be expected to obtain and hold a U.S. Top Secret security clearance

Benefits

Comp & perks

Competitive cash compensation
Meaningful equity
Premium medical, dental, and vision plans with $0 paycheck contribution
Competitive PTO and company holiday calendar
Catered lunch daily and fully stocked kitchen
EV charging
Relocation assistance (depending on role eligibility)