Founding Systems Engineer

Drogue is building the world's first offshore floating data centers. We're a small team tackling a massive, first-of-its-kind engineering challenge. If you thrive in ambiguity, love hard problems, and want to build something that's never been built before — keep reading.

We're not putting servers on a barge. We're engineering a new class of ocean-deployed infrastructure that generates its own power, recovers its own waste heat, stays on station in severe weather, and runs autonomously. This requires a mix of first principles engineering and existing technology from other industries.

You're an integrator. Our platform is a tightly coupled system of electrical, mechanical, and thermodynamic subsystems that all have to work together in a harsh, remote environment. As our Founding Systems Engineer you'll own the architecture that ties it all together, define the interfaces, and make sure nothing falls through the cracks. You'll also be outward-facing — leading vendor integrations for major equipment and working with customers to ensure our platform meets their requirements.

Responsibilities:

• Define and own the system architecture that integrates electrical, mechanical, and thermodynamic subsystems into a coherent platform

• Establish interface control documents, system requirements, and execute test & qualification campaigns, including defining key technical milestones and building integrated test plans to demonstrate key performance parameters.

• Lead vendor relationships and procurement for major subsystems — turbines, generators, heat exchangers, pipes, pumps, and more

• Serve as the technical bridge to customers, translating their data center requirements into platform-level engineering specs

Qualifications:

• B.S./M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field

• Experience as a systems integrator on complex, multi-discipline hardware programs

• Strong vendor management and technical communication skills — you can run a design review and a supplier negotiation in the same day

This role is based in Washington, D.C. and will include some time at sea. We offer generous relocation assistance for candidates across the US. We pay our employees competitive salaries based on level of experience and offer meaningful equity in a fast growing company. Apply below, or reach out at with questions.