Autonomous Vehicle Technician - San Francisco 94124 HOURLY PAY up to $70

AutoNation Inc.; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 31,000 - 96,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full benefits package including PTO &

401K with company match

Longevity bonuses

Employee referral bonus up to $3000

Employee discount on vehicle purchases

Advancement opportunities

Job summary

AutoNation Inc. is seeking entry-level AV Technician candidates to support inspections, maintenance, and troubleshooting of autonomous vehicles. This role emphasizes hands-on learning in AV hardware, sensors, and diagnostic procedures while assisting experienced technicians.

Ideal for early-career technicians or recent technical graduates transitioning to mobility tech. AutoNation offers competitive benefits and opportunities for advancement in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years in automotive, EV, robotics, or AV technician roles.
• Strong diagnostic experience with mechanical and electrical vehicle systems.
• Hands-on experience with sensor systems (LiDAR, radar, cameras) and computer hardware.
• Proficiency with diagnostic software, scan tools, and electrical testing equipment.

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced diagnostics and repair on AV powertrain, braking, suspension, and HV systems.
• Diagnose faults involving CAN/LIN networks and AV computer hardware.
• Install, configure, and replace AV components, wiring, and networking equipment.
• Support field testing, real-time troubleshooting, and data collection during missions.

Skills

Automotive diagnostics

Electrical systems

Sensor systems

CAN/LIN tools

Linux basics

Tools

CANalyzer

SavvyCAN

Vehicle Spy

Job description

AutoNation is one of the largest automotive retailers in the United States, offering innovative products, exceptional services, and comprehensive solutions, empowering our customers to make the best decisions for their needs. With a network of dealerships nationwide strengthened by a recognized brand, we offer a wide variety of new and used vehicles, customer financing, parts, and provide expert maintenance and repair services. Through DRV PNK, we have raised over $40 million for cancer-related causes, demonstrating our commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of our Associates, Customers, and the communities we serve.So what do you say? Are you ready to be part of something big?The Autonomous Vehicle (AV) Technician is an entry-level role responsible for supporting basic inspections, maintenance, and troubleshooting tasks on autonomous vehicles. This position provides hands-on learning and development in AV hardware, sensors, electrical systems, and diagnostic procedures while assisting more experienced technicians. The Junior Technician ensures vehicle readiness, supports fleet operations, and follows established safety and technical procedures.This role is ideal for early-career technicians, recent technical program graduates, or individuals transitioning from traditional automotive or mechanical fields into advanced mobility technology.At AutoNation, we want our employees to feel happy, healthy, and valued as they work to provide a top-notch experience for our customers. We offer our full-time Associates great, competitive benefits such as:• Higher income potential• Full benefits package including Paid Time Off & 401K w/ Companymatch• Longevity bonuses• Generous employee referral bonus program for Technicians (employeescan earn up to $3000 per Tech referral!)• Employee discount on vehicle purchases, parts, & service• Advancement opportunities• And so much more!.Key ResponsibilitiesAdvanced Diagnostics & RepairPerform complex mechanical and electrical troubleshooting on AV powertrain, braking, suspension, and high-voltage systems.Diagnose, repair, and validate faults involving CAN networks, LIN bus, power distribution, and AV computer hardware.Utilize advanced diagnostic tools to perform root-cause analysis and resolve recurring system issues.Sensor & System CalibrationConduct precise calibrations of LiDAR, radar, camera arrays, GPS units, IMUs, and perception systems.Validate sensor alignment, accuracy, and performance to meet AV operational standards.Support testing and verification of updated sensor platforms or new hardware integrations.AV Hardware & Software SupportInstall, configure, and replace complex AV components, including computer modules, communication units, wiring harnesses, and networking equipment.Support engineering teams with software deployments, data extraction, log reviews, and local debugging.Execute test plans, collect vehicle data, and provide technical feedback on firmware and hardware performance.Field Operations & TestingSupport on-road and closed-course AV testing, including real-time troubleshooting during missions.Respond to escalated field issues, vehicle recoveries, and operational incidents.Coordinate with remote monitoring teams to address live AV technical needs.Documentation & Continuous ImprovementMaintain detailed documentation of repairs, calibrations, and diagnostics in fleet management systems.Identify system trends, propose solutions, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.Provide technical guidance, mentorship, and training to AV technicians and cross-functional team members.Required Qualifications3–5+ years of experience as an automotive, EV, robotics, or AV technician.Strong diagnostic experience with mechanical and electrical vehicle systems.Hands-on experience with sensor systems (LiDAR, radar, cameras) and computer hardware.Proficiency with diagnostic software, scan tools, and electrical testing equipment.Ability to interpret wiring diagrams, schematics, and engineering documentation.Experience with CAN/LIN tools (e.g., CANalyzer, SavvyCAN, Vehicle Spy) preferred.Ability to lift 50 lbs, work under vehicles, and operate in field environments.Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.Preferred QualificationsASE Master Technician certification, EV/Hybrid certification, or OEM factory training.Experience with high-voltage systems (HV safety certification a plus).Knowledge of Linux command line and basic scripting for diagnostics.Prior experience in autonomous vehicles, robotics, advanced ADAS, or mobility tech.Experience supporting fleet operations or fast-paced technical environments.Working ConditionsOn-site role; may require evening, weekend, day shift, Night shift or Moonlight shiftWork performed in shop, lab, and outdoor operational settings.Occasional travel to remote testing or operational sites.This full-time position offers a competitive compensation structure ranging from $22.80 to $70.00 per hour, depending on certifications, skills and experience.KEYWORDS: Jaguar, Acura, Alfa Romeo, Audi, BW, Bentley, Buick, Cadillac, Chevy, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Ford, GM, GMC, Genesis, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Jeep, JLR, KIA, Land Rover. Lexus, Lincoln, Lotus, Lucid Motors, Maserati, Mazda, MB, Mercedes Benz, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Polestar, Porsche, RAM, Rivian, Rolls Royce, Rolls-Royce, SAAB, Saturn, Scion, SMART, Subaru, Suzuki, Tesla, Volkswagen, Volkswagon, VW, Volvo, Daimler, Stellantis, Renault, Tata, Zhejiang Geely, ZGH, Service Department, Fixed Ops, Fixed Operations, Customer Care, After-Sales, After Sales, Service Drive, Service Lane, Express Lane Advisor, Service Writer, Service Advisor, Service Warranty, Auto Repair Shop, Auto Maintenance, Estimator, Sales Advisor, Customer Service Advisor, ASE, Factory Certified, Manufacturer Certified, ICAR, CDK, ADP, X-time, DealerSocket, Dealership, CRM, Automotive tech, Automotive technician, Auto tech, Mechanic, Shop foreman, automotive trainer, factory trainer, vehicle repair, car sales, automotive sales, ASM, Automotive technician, auto tech, Service Technician, Service Tech, Mechanic, Line Technician, Master Technician, A Tech, B Tech, C Tech, A-Tech, B-Tech, C-Tech, GST, General Service Tech, Maintenance Technician, Lube Tech, Oil Change, Alignment Technician, Suspension Technician, Tire Tech, EV, EV Tech, 91B, mobile mechanic, electric vehicle, transmission technician, deisel, diesel, hybrid, Zeekr, Beep$39.90 - $69.82Exciting Benefits and Perks Await You:Competitive compensation and 401k matchingEnjoy a healthy work-life balance with insurance plans (health, dental, vision) and maternity benefits.Associate purchase and discount programs for new and pre-owned vehicles, services, parts, collision, accessories, and AutoGearAccess amazing deals and discounts through YouDecide, a website with offers from top providers and retailersJoin our DRVPNK mission to raise and donate millions of dollars to cancer research and treatment, partnering with cancer charities nationwideAutoNation is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment in our workplace and the services we provide. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds who are passionate about making a positive impact. Even if you do not meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. Join our team and help us foster a culture of belonging while contributing to our revolutionary work in the automotive industry. We value innovation, teamwork, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world.