Director of Supply Chain

Saildrone
Saildrone

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Operations

Alameda, CA, USA

USD 173,400-229,700 / year + Equity

Posted on Mar 12, 2026

THE COMPANY

Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV manufacturer or operator, Saildrone maintains active, combat-deployed systems supporting national security and force projection around the world, 24/7/365.

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. By combining proven autonomous operations, edge computing, advanced sensing, renewable power, and the most advanced and robust unmanned surface technology on the planet, Saildrone is shaping how the Navy of the future operates. Join a fast-moving, mission-driven team at the forefront of maritime security and autonomous innovation.

THE POSITION

Saildrone is seeking a Director of Supply Chain to join our Operations team. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, you will play a critical role in ensuring uninterrupted production, rapid scaling, and cost-effective delivery of Saildrone’s autonomous systems. This role owns end-to-end supply chain strategy and execution—from demand planning and sourcing to inventory, logistics, and supplier performance—directly impacting fleet readiness and mission success. We are looking for a senior operations leader who creates clarity from ambiguity, drives execution in fast-moving environments, and builds scalable systems that perform under real-world constraints.

THE TEAM

The Supply Chain team is responsible for enabling Saildrone’s manufacturing, field operations, and product development through reliable material flow and strategic supplier partnerships. We focus on delivering resilient, scalable supply chain solutions that support global operations in a national security and defense environment. This role works closely with Engineering, Production, Quality, Finance, Sales, and Field Operations to align priorities and ensure seamless execution.

THE RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Lead demand planning and material forecasting to support current and future production, field service, and R&D needs.
  • Own end-to-end supply chain operations, including procurement, inventory management, warehousing, logistics, and material control, meeting cost, quality, and delivery targets.
  • Be accountable for inventory accuracy, material availability, supplier performance, and budget adherence.
  • Partner cross-functionally with Engineering, Production, Quality, and Finance to manage engineering changes, new product introductions, and make/buy decisions.
  • Establish and track supply chain KPIs; identify risks, constraints, and cost-reduction opportunities, and drive corrective actions.
  • Lead supplier selection, qualification, contract negotiation (NDAs, SOWs, MPAs), and ongoing performance management in collaboration with Quality.
  • Oversee warehouse operations, ensuring safe, efficient receiving, storage, and line-side delivery.
  • Utilize MRP and analytics tools to improve forecasting, planning accuracy, and decision-making; contribute to the development of advanced planning and AI-enabled tools.
  • Build, lead, and develop a high-performing supply chain organization, fostering accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
  • Provide clear, timely communication on supply chain status, risks, and priorities to executive leadership and cross-functional partners.

THE QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Operations, or a related field.
  • 7+ years of supply chain experience supporting complex manufacturing environments; startup or high-growth experience strongly preferred.
  • 5+ years of senior-level people leadership experience, building teams and scalable processes.
  • Demonstrated expertise in demand planning, procurement, inventory management, and supplier negotiations.
  • Proficiency with MRP/ERP systems such as NetSuite or SAP; experience with advanced analytics or Palantir Foundry is a plus.
  • Proven ability to manage complex, cross-functional programs from concept through execution.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills in ambiguous, fast-paced environments.
  • Clear, confident communicator with the ability to influence across technical and non-technical teams.
  • Ability to work on-site in Alameda, CA, with 10–15% travel as required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a computer.
  • Ability to lift up to 15 lbs as needed.

The base salary range for this position is shown below. Actual compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and qualifications. This range reflects the base salary for candidates in states requiring pay transparency disclosure.

Salary Range
$173,400—$229,700 USD

To view Saildrone's candidate privacy policy, please visit: https://www.saildrone.com/privacy.

BENEFITS

At Saildrone, we’re building operational capability that matters—and that requires people who can do their best work over the long term. We invest in our team’s well-being, financial security, and professional growth so you can focus on delivering real-world impact with confidence and stability. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support you and your family while you contribute to a mission with lasting significance.

  • Generous Time Off: Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual plus a robust annual holiday schedule and paid sick leave ensure you can rest, reset, and sustain performance over time.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Premium, multi-tier Medical, Dental, and Vision plans with significant company contributions for employees and dependents—providing security and peace of mind.
  • Shared Ownership in the Mission: Equity grants are a core part of our compensation, allowing you to participate in the long-term value you help create through meaningful, operational work.
  • Retirement Savings: Access to a 401(k) retirement plan with flexible pre-tax and Roth payroll contribution options supports long-term financial planning.
  • Investment in Your Growth: We support your continuous learning through an annual professional development reimbursement program, empowering you to sharpen your skills and stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving field.
  • Relocation Support: For eligible roles, we offer relocation assistance to help bring the world’s best talent to our mission-critical locations.

Saildrone is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

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