Autonomous Field Test Driver

truckingpeople; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 39,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

truckingpeople in Sunnyvale, CA is seeking a Test Driver / Vehicle Operator to support autonomous vehicle data collection. You will drive and monitor self-driving test vehicles in real-world environments in Sunnyvale and San Francisco, CA, and provide feedback to engineering teams.

This is an on-site role for safety-minded individuals who enjoy hands-on mobility technology and data collection.

Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license with no major violations in the past 12 months.
• Clear driving record and no DUIs or criminal history.
• Basic understanding of vehicle systems.
• Willingness to drive 4–8 hours daily on public roads.
• Strong communication and documentation skills.
• Ability to follow precise safety instructions.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate test vehicles on public roads for 4–8 hours per day.
• Perform pre- and post-trip inspections to ensure readiness and safety.
• Operate onboard systems to support real-time data collection and logging.
• Document test results, performance anomalies, and operational observations.
• Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to enhance vehicle performance.
• Assist with logistics, vehicle movement, basic maintenance, and storage as needed.

Skills

Valid U.S. driver’s license

Clean driving record

Vehicle systems familiarity

Strong communication

Documentation skills

Follow safety instructions

On-site readiness

Job description

Test Driver / Vehicle Operator – Autonomous Vehicle Data Collection

Location: Sunnyvale, CA (On-Site, with travel to San Francisco)

Pay: $28.00 per hour, with a $0.50/hour increase every 6 months based on tenure.

Schedule:

• 6:00 AM – 2:30 PM: Wed-Sun | Thur-Mon | Sat-Wed
• 2:00 PM – 10:30 PM: Tue-Sat | Wed-Sun | Thur-Mon | Fri-Tue | Sat-Wed | Sun-Thu

About the Role

We’re hiring Test Drivers / Vehicle Operators to support the development of autonomous vehicle technology in Sunnyvale and San Francisco, CA. In this role, you’ll drive and monitor self-driving test vehicles, collect valuable data, and provide detailed feedback to engineering teams.

This is an in-person role for safety-minded professionals who are excited to work hands-on with cutting-edge mobility technology in real-world environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely operate test vehicles on public roads for 4–8 hours per day following all traffic and company safety guidelines.
• Perform pre- and post-trip vehicle inspections to ensure readiness and safety.
• Operate onboard systems to support real-time data collection and logging.
• Document test results, performance anomalies, and operational observations.
• Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to enhance vehicle performance.
• Assist with logistics, vehicle movement, basic maintenance, and storage as needed.

Requirements

• Valid U.S. driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• No moving violations in the past 12 months; no DUIs or criminal record.
• Basic understanding of vehicle systems and strong situational awareness.
• Comfortable driving for long periods (4–8 hours daily).
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and documentation skills.
• Ability to follow precise instructions and adhere to strict safety standards.
• Must be available to work onsite at both Sunnyvale and San Francisco locations.