Albacore (YC S25) is developing a next-generation unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) to support distributed maritime operations, including deterrence and ISR missions in the Pacific. Our platform is designed to be modular, persistent, and easy to deploy, addressing key capability gaps for special operations forces and maritime defense.

We're a small team of repeat defense founders and engineers with backgrounds in unmanned systems and national security technology. Backed by Y Combinator and Z Fellows, as well as supported by key stakeholders across the Department of Defense, we’re rapidly iterating toward a fieldable capability with strong early traction.

We’re looking for entrepreneurial mechanical and software engineers who want to build systems that matter for America, enjoy taking ownership, solving complex technical problems, and contributing to a product from the ground up. Water testing of our vehicles are ongoing!

Albacore (YC S25) is hiring an entrepreneurial, creative, motivated mechanical engineers to help us build a next-generation unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) that can deter island invasions. The company was founded by serial entrepreneurs in defense and unmanned systems technology experts.

Founding Mechanical Engineers will:

• Co-lead, design, and build a next generation UUV (hull design, system integration, etc.)
• Develop manufacturing plan and instructions for assembly technicians
• Design and conduct experiments and tests for the UUV platform
• Discuss technology with high-level government personnel
• Assist with IP development and patenting new technologies
• Manage junior engineers and contractors

What we’re looking for:

• Track record of developing underwater vehicles and engines helpful but not required
• Previous team leadership on engineering projects
• Deep love of building cool stuff
• Entrepreneurial mentality
• US citizen and able to obtain a security clearance
• Undergraduate or graduate degree in Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering/Science, Electrical Engineering, or similar
• Technical skills: Solidworks, Simulations, Construction (Soldering, 3D printing, etc.), Programming (Python, Matlab, etc.)

Other details:

• $80k-$130k salary range + equity
• Must be willing to relocate to Philadelphia
• Can start by September 1, 2025

At Albacore, we’re building a new class of modular UUVs capable of long-range, long-duration autonomous missions in denied maritime environments.

Hardware stack: Custom UUV design using SolidWorks and CFD tools In-house manufacturing and integration (3D printing, machining, soldering, etc.) Modular subsystems for propulsion, batteries, and comms Fieldable prototypes and test platforms

Software stack: Autonomy stack built with Python, C++, and ROS2 Satellite and acoustic communication integration SLAM, navigation, and perception algorithms (with optional ML) Embedded systems development and mission programming UI Simulation and testing tools to validate mission behavior

We’re solving meaningful challenges in additive manufacturing, hydrodynamics, autonomy, and communication. The work is hands-on, fast-moving and we value builders who are excited to work on complete solutions rather than small components.