Software Engineer, Geometric Computer Vision
About this role
Saildrone builds autonomous unmanned surface vehicles that utilize advanced sensing and edge computing to support maritime defense operations globally. Geometric computer vision engineers on this team develop the systems that translate raw camera imagery into precise estimates of vehicle motion, depth, 3D structure, and spatial relationships. Team members spend their time designing calibration protocols, building multi-camera tracking architectures, and deploying optimization algorithms directly onto autonomous hardware operating in demanding marine environments.
Candidates who succeed in this environment typically combine rigorous C++ software engineering abilities with a deep practical understanding of multi-view geometry, sensor integration, and real-world data processing. Operating from the headquarters in Alameda, California, the engineering group collaborates closely to push the boundaries of autonomous maritime technology and national security infrastructure.
What you will do
- Develop computer vision algorithms focused on camera motion, vehicle pose, depth, 3D structure, and spatial relationships.
- Design and implement intrinsic, extrinsic, and multi-camera calibration systems for physical platforms.
- Build multi-camera and temporal vision systems utilizing correspondence, feature tracking, and stereo techniques.
- Apply geometric estimation and optimization methods to process noisy imagery captured under real-world conditions.
- Integrate vision algorithms with onboard cameras and other vehicle sensors while managing coordinate frames and synchronization.
- Validate and debug vision systems directly on autonomous vehicles across algorithms, calibration, hardware, and software layers.
- Improve the overall performance and reliability of vision systems operating in challenging marine environments.
What you need
- Demonstrate strong C++ software engineering skills.
- Possess hands-on experience developing computer vision or geometric vision algorithms.
- Bring practical experience in calibrating and integrating cameras on robotic, autonomous, or other physical systems.
- Maintain a strong understanding of 3D geometry, camera models, coordinate transformations, and estimation or optimization.
- Show documented experience working with real sensor data and integrating algorithms into production systems.
Nice to have
- Stereo vision, visual odometry, SLAM, structure from motion, or multi-view geometry experience
- Embedded or edge computing experience
Benefits
- Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual plus a robust annual holiday schedule and paid sick leave
- Premium, multi-tier Medical, Dental, and Vision plans with significant company contributions for employees and dependents
- Equity grants allowing participation in long-term company value
- Access to a 401(k) retirement plan with flexible pre-tax and Roth payroll contribution options
- Annual professional development reimbursement program
- Relocation assistance for eligible roles
Skills and tech stack
Questions candidates ask
Where is the team located?
Saildrone’s manufacturing and R&D headquarters are located in Alameda, CA, with business development and sales operations in Washington, DC, and deployment hubs in Europe and the Middle East.
What is the salary range for this role?
The base salary range for this position is $144,500 to $300,000 USD, with actual compensation varying based on skills, experience, and qualifications.
What kind of benefits are included?
Employees receive competitive PTO, comprehensive multi-tier health coverage, equity grants, a 401(k) retirement plan, professional development reimbursement, and relocation support for eligible roles.