Mission Operator
- Location
- Paso Robles
- Workplace
- On-site
- Compensation
- $120k – $140k + equity
- Visa
- No Visa Sponsorship
About this role
We’re hiring Mission Operators to act as forward-deployed operators and field engineers for our unmanned ground vehicle programs. You’ll own system performance in real-world environments, executing field missions, supporting high-visibility customer demos, and ensuring platforms are mission-ready at all times. Operating at the intersection of engineering, operations, and customer engagement, you’ll run test events, operate autonomous systems, and troubleshoot issues across hardware and software in real time. You’ll work closely with engineers to validate performance, drive rapid iteration, and deliver actionable field feedback.
This is a hands-on, field-heavy role. You’ll deploy, operate, and recover systems in dynamic environments while maintaining high standards of safety, professionalism, and technical execution. You’ll also represent Scout in front of customers, clearly communicating system capabilities and performance under real-world conditions.
Responsibilities
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
What happens next
Skip the application pile. I get you in front of the people who decide.
Confirm the fit
A few questions to make sure this role is the right shape for you. Two minutes.
I pitch you to the company
I write the intro, send it to the founder, and handle the back-and-forth.
A meeting lands on your calendar
When the company wants to meet, I get the call on your calendar. You just show up.
Culture & values
Mission Operations team operates as a bridge between R&D and real-world performance
Team executes hands-on field testing and autonomous system validation
Work involves multi-day offsite trips across diverse terrain environments
Team collaborates directly with engineering on development test requests
Daily operations include customer demonstrations and real-world performance validation
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