> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2907765-usv-operator-marine-autonomous-systems](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2907765-usv-operator-marine-autonomous-systems). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # USV Operator - Marine Autonomous Systems - **Company:** Flanders Marine Institute (vliz) - **Location:** Oostende, Belgium - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Scientific Data Archiving, SONAR (Symantec), Data Processing, GNSS - **Published:** September 15, 2026 - **Apply:** https://vliz.be/en/jobs/vliz-recruits-usv-operator-marine-autonomous-systems ## About the Role We are looking for a practical, technically minded, curious and safety-conscious marine operator who enjoys turning complex plans into successful operations. You do not need to be an experienced USV pilot already: we value operational judgement, technical aptitude and a willingness to learn at least as highly as experience with a particular platform. You have * A professional or higher-education qualification in a relevant maritime, technical or engineering field (e.g. Master Nautical Sciences or Marine engineering), or equivalent relevant professional experience; * Practical experience in marine, offshore, maritime, survey or field operations, or another environment where safety, planning and reliable execution are essential; * An interest in and aptitude for operating complex technical systems; * A structured approach to monitoring systems, identifying anomalies and troubleshooting problems; * A strong safety and responsibility mindset, with the ability to work systematically with procedures, risk assessments and QHSE requirements; * The ability to work independently and make sound operational decisions, including when conditions or plans change during a mission; * Good communication and organisational skills, allowing you to work effectively with scientists, engineers, technicians, project leaders and external partners; * A willingness and ability to work at sea for multi-day missions, in Belgium and abroad, and to work flexible hours when operational requirements demand it; * Good digital skills and the ability to learn new software, control systems and technical interfaces quickly; * A basic understanding of data handling, quality control, file management and data archiving; * A good command of spoken and written English. Knowledge of Dutch is an advantage; * Willingness to occasionally travel for missions and deployments. The following are considered an advantage: * Relevant maritime qualifications, STCW training or seagoing experience. * Experience operating USVs, ROVs, AUVs, survey vessels, drones or other remotely operated or autonomous systems; * Experience with marine navigation, hydrographic or scientific survey operations; * Experience with marine sensors such as sonar, GNSS, INS, ADCPs, CTDs or cameras; * Experience with marine communications, networking or remote-control systems; * Practical experience with mechanical, electrical or electronic troubleshooting; * Experience with offshore or multi-day field operations; * Familiarity with maritime regulations, permits and operational documentation; * Experience developing or improving procedures, checklists, risk assessments or QHSE systems; * Experience with scientific or environmental data acquisition and quality control. ## Description The VLIZ Marine Robotics Centre is pushing boundaries to innovate measurement techniques and to facilitate the adoption of autonomous marine systems in marine research and in the blue economy. In our research and innovation projects, we use survey grade marine autonomous/uncrewed systems (MAS) (e.g. AUV, USV's, Gliders) and oceanographic moorings to acquire high-resolution measurements of the water column, currents, waves and the seafloor. VLIZ also acquired a state-of-the-art long-range Unmanned Surface Vehicle (length 9 m), which is deployed in our research and innovation projects. To strengthen the capacity of the engineering and operational team of the Marine Robotics Centre, VLIZ is hiring a survey engineer (m/f/x)., You will join the operational and engineering team of the Marine Robotics Centre, with a primary focus on the safe, efficient and effective operation of USV Gobelijn. You will be responsible for turning scientific and technical objectives into well-prepared and successfully executed marine operations, which are in line with the prevailing legislation. Together with the team, your responsibilities will include: * Plan, prepare and coordinate USV missions with USV Gobelijn, translating project objectives into practical mission plans and covering operational, technical, logistical, administrative and regulatory aspects; * Execute multi-day missions in the (Belgian part of the) North Sea and beyond, including deployment, recovery, watchkeeping, monitoring of vehicle and payload systems, and dayto-day operational and support management; * Monitor the quality of acquired data during missions, perform basic quality control and processing, and ensure that data and associated metadata are properly documented and archived; * Ensure operational and regulatory compliance, including preparation of permits and documentation (e.g. CONOPS, Risk assessment, etc.) and maintaining a high standard of compliance with applicable maritime and operational requirements; * Continuously improve operational procedures, checklists, risk assessments and technical setup based on experience from missions; * Contribute to operations with other marine robotic and observation systems when required, including AUVs, gliders and marine sensors. 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