Software Engineer – Build the Future of Fishing with Maidenfleet
Location: Nelson, New Zealand – The heart of Australasia’s largest fishing port
Salary: Competitive + Equity + Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity
Start Date: ASAP
About Maidenfleet
Maidenfleet isn’t just another start-up—we are here to revolutionize one of the world’s great primary industries. Commercial fishing has remained virtually unchanged for over a century, but we’re rewriting the rules.
Our AI-powered autonomous harvest system will redefine sustainable seafood harvesting, optimizing efficiency, eliminating waste, and shaping the future of the multi-billion dollar global fishing industry.
We’re at Day One of building a category-defining company. If you're a world-class Software Engineer, this is your chance to get in at the ground floor of what will be a future titan of industry.
We're driven by a vision of a smarter, cleaner, and more sustainable seafood industry, and we're gearing up to build our first commercial prototype. This is a not-to-be-missed opportunity to push boundaries, lead game-changing innovation, and build something truly monumental.
The Role – Software Engineer
We are searching for an exceptional Software Engineer to architect and develop the core software infrastructure for our MK1 Harvest System—a ground breaking AI-driven autonomous fishing technology.
This mission-critical role will have you working on real-time control systems, AI integrations, and cloud-based monitoring to bring our autonomous harvest system to life. If you thrive on building high-performance, mission-critical software, this is the role for you.
What You'll Be Doing
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Develop and optimize real-time control software for autonomous harvesting operations.
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Integrate AI, machine learning, and computer vision to enable intelligent decision-making.
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Build cloud-based monitoring & analytics for remote tracking and optimization.
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Develop low-latency, high-reliability software for marine robotics applications.
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Implement advanced networking & data handling for seamless system communication.
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Collaborate with AI, mechatronics, and hardware engineers to create a truly autonomous system.
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Test, deploy, and refine software in real-world marine environments.
Who We’re Looking For
Maidenfleet isn’t for just anyone. We need visionaries, builders, and problem-solvers who thrive in uncharted territory.
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Proven experience in software development, embedded systems, or robotics software.
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Strong coding skills in C++, Python, or Rust for high-performance applications.
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Experience with real-time systems, robotics frameworks, or control software.
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Understanding of AI, machine learning, and computer vision (bonus but not required).
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Cloud & networking experience (AWS, Azure, or edge computing for IoT devices).
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Ability to prototype, test, and iterate quickly in a fast-paced start-up environment.
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Passion for deep-tech innovation and solving real-world challenges.
Bonus (but not required): Experience with ROS (Robot Operating System), marine technology, or AI-driven automation.
We hire obsessively curious, relentless problem-solvers who want to build the future. If you don’t meet every single requirement but believe you should be on this journey, apply anyway.
Why Nelson?
This role is based at our headquarters in Nelson, New Zealand—home to Australasia’s largest fishing port and the beating heart of the seafood industry. Nelson isn’t just a workplace—it’s a lifestyle.
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Marine Innovation Hub – Be at the centre of the region’s rich maritime and seafood industry.
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Outdoor Paradise – With world-class hiking, mountain biking, and water sports right on your doorstep.
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Sunniest City in New Zealand – Enjoy stunning beaches, national parks, and a vibrant community.
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Great Food & Wine – Nestled between renowned vineyards and fresh local seafood markets.
If you want cutting-edge work without sacrificing lifestyle, Nelson offers the perfect balance.
Why Maidenfleet?
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Industry Revolution – Disrupting a multi-billion dollar industry with cutting-edge automation.
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Early-Stage Leadership – Get in at the ground floor and shape the future.
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Hard Problems, Big Impact – Solving critical sustainability and efficiency challenges in global seafood.
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Competitive Pay + Equity – Be part of our long-term success.
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Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity – This is not just a job—it’s a career-defining moment.
Ready to Build the Future?
If you want to define the next era of sustainable fishing, push the boundaries of software innovation, and work with some of the smartest, most driven people in the industry—we want to hear from you.
Apply Now!