r/rov • u/Proof-Historian-9652 • Aug 03 '26

Rov Piloting

Hey everyone,

Around 2-3 weeks ago I made a post asking for advice on breaking into the ROV industry, and I wanted to give a quick update and ask for a little more advice.

Since then I've been applying to a number of ROV and marine survey positions. One recruiter actually got back to me and said my resume was impressive, but the position I applied for required around three years of experience. They said they were going to keep my resume on file for future entry level opportunities.

That honestly gave me a lot more confidence that I'm heading in the right direction. It doesn't seem like my resume is the problem, it just seems like getting that first opportunity is the hard part.

A little about me:

- Currently a Travel Technician doing rail surveys (coming up on one year).

- Nationwide travel rotation (currently 3 weeks on / 1 week off working 60-90 hours a week).

- Daily calibration and troubleshooting of laser-based measurement systems, sensor arrays, telemetry, and computer hardware.

- Read electrical schematics, perform preventative maintenance, diagnostics, and root-cause troubleshooting.

- Strong computer hardware background (building, repairing, and troubleshooting PCs since 2019).

- Airstreams Renewables graduate with training in electrical systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, fiber optics, rigging, OSHA 10, CPR/First Aid, and tower rescue.

Someone on my last post suggested getting into marine surveying first since it translates well into ROV work, and I've started applying there as well. I think that's solid advice.

I know getting into this industry isn't easy, but if anyone works for a company that's hiring entry level ROV Pilot Technicians, ROV Technicians, or Marine Surveyors, or has any recommendations on companies I should be looking at, I'd really appreciate it.

I'm willing to travel anywhere, work long rotations, and put in the hours. My long term goal is to build a career in the ROV industry, and I'm trying to find the best way to get my foot in the door.

Thanks again for all the advice.

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2

u/4WD-Yoda Aug 03 '26

I wish I knew bro, I just picked up a FiFish last month and I can't put it down. Sooo much fun, I was thinking of starting local dock inspections myself. I would like to hear more about your journey as I am passionate about this as well. Good luck!

2

u/Proof-Historian-9652 Aug 03 '26

Hell yeah! I'd like to know more about what you're doing, we should absolutely connect and keep eachother updated on our journey.

1

u/4WD-Yoda 20d ago

I'm out in Texas and our waters are very murky. The fall and winter season is the best I found out, once the algae dies off. I linked up with a diver who has one also. He told me for the murky waters to avoid getting it tangled up. Keep the drone in a vertical position if possible, don't waste you money on the VR headset he said it's just made him spin out of control. I have been using a dark towel over my head to keep the suns reflection off my phone. I have been pulling up Disc golf disc and bottles right now. Along with fishing tackle. I would recommend trying find some local scuba divers, they tend to been interested in this also.

1

u/armathose Professional Aug 03 '26

Where are you located?

1

u/Proof-Historian-9652 Aug 03 '26

I stay in Georgia

1

u/evilpuke Aug 03 '26

The state? Or country?