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, outgoing, and adventurous Government Relations Manager 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.

The Government Relations Manager will:

• Identify, secure, and plan for vehicle demonstration opportunities
• Co-lead technology demonstrations with leadership and engineers
• Support customer relationships and outreach efforts
• Collect end-user feedback to improve future product iterations
• Share the warfighter perspective with government and private stakeholders
• Help 1-3 scrawny nerds carry our 225lb vehicle without laughing

What we’re looking for:

• Experience within Special Operations Forces (bonus points for Navy)
• Experience with unmanned systems operation (bonus points for UUVs)
• Experience within defense technology ecosystem (e.g. Defense Ventures Fellowship)
• Comfortable with 50%+ travel during key months (e.g. August)
• Broad network within key government organizations (e.g. SOCOM, Navy)
• Knowledge of contracting and contracting pathways
• TS/SCI clearance

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.