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 electrical 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 Electrical Engineers will:

● Co-lead, design, and build the electrical and power subsystems for a next generation UUV (high-voltage charging, battery systems, power distribution, sensor/electronics integration, etc.)

● Develop test plans, validation procedures, and troubleshooting methods for electrical systems

● Design and conduct experiments and validation testing for UUV electrical/power platforms

● 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 high-voltage or power electronics systems, charging architectures, or embedded electrical systems 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 Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Computer Engineering/Science, or similar

● Technical skills: Circuit design (Altium), power electronics, high-voltage testing, embedded systems, Simulation (SPICE/Matlab), Programming (Python, C++, etc.), Hardware construction (Soldering, PCB assembly, etc.)

Other details:

● $80k-$130k salary range + equity

● Must be willing to relocate to Philadelphia

● Can start by October 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.