Autonomous Vehicle Test Driver (CDL)

Bot Auto; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 45,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a skilled Test Driver passionate about autonomous driving technology. This hands-on role involves operating autonomous vehicles while ensuring safety and compliance with regulations. Ideal candidates will have extensive commercial driving experience, a clean driving record, and the ability to work collaboratively with engineering teams. You will be responsible for vehicle inspections, maintenance, and providing valuable feedback to enhance vehicle performance. Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and offers competitive compensation and benefits, including health insurance and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Health insurance

Paid time off

Professional development opportunities

Performance bonuses

Qualifications

• Must have a valid Texas CDL Class A license with 3+ years of commercial driving.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and vehicle maintenance protocols is essential.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate autonomous vehicles, providing feedback to engineering teams.
• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections, documenting vehicle performance.

Skills

Commercial driving experience

Safety regulations knowledge

Vehicle maintenance

Strong observational skills

Communication skills

Education

Texas CDL Class A license

Tools

Autonomous vehicle systems

Cranes

Forklifts

Job description

We are seeking an experienced and safety-conscious Test Driver with a passion for autonomous driving technology. This hands-on role involves operating autonomous vehicles and playing a key part in advancing this innovative field. Ideal candidates will possess extensive driving experience and the ability to collaborate closely with engineering teams to troubleshoot issues. Prior experience in the AV industry or similar tech-focused environments is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate and monitor autonomous vehicles for at least 8 hours per shift, providing feedback to the engineering team.
• Ensure full compliance with safety protocols.
• Perform routine truck maintenance, including refueling and cleaning.
• Maintain a thorough safety record and log all working hours in accordance with state and federal regulations.
• Conduct and document pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections.
• Ensure any mechanical issues are addressed before operating the vehicle.
• Report any defects, incidents, violations, injuries, or anomalies promptly and per company guidelines.
• Complete required training modules within set timeframes to stay current on new technologies and safety practices.
• Document vehicle performance daily, identifying issues and suggesting improvements with precision.
• Participate in debrief meetings with technical teams, offering insights and observations from the driver’s perspective.
• Assist in setting up, calibrating, and performing routine maintenance on autonomous vehicle systems according to established procedures.
• Plan routes and adhere to delivery schedules.
• Secure cargo, ensuring proper arrangement and balance within the vehicle.
• Communicate effectively with dispatchers and coordinate as needed.
• Load and unload cargo accurately and safely.
• Operate assigned equipment safely, including cranes, conveyors, tractors, trailers, forklifts, piggybacks, and pallet jacks.
• Verify load accuracy and record delivery details.
• Interact with customers in a professional manner.

Requirements

• Must possess a valid Texas CDL Class A license with a minimum of 3 years of commercial driving experience and a clean driving record for the past 5 years.
• Zero at-fault accidents and no traffic violations in the last 3 years.
• Knowledgeable in safety regulations, including traffic laws and driver rest requirements, as well as maximum allowable driving miles.
• Vehicle maintenance, inspection protocols, and other safety procedures.
• Ability to work flexible hours and adapt to various testing environments.
• Ability to work rotating shifts as needed.
• Meet all DOT qualifications and certifications, including passing DOT physical requirements every two years.
• Strong hand-eye coordination to maintain fast reaction times on the road.
• Meets required standards for visual and hearing acuity per applicable regulations.
• Consistent discipline in managing hours, rest breaks, and testing/delivery schedules.
• Strict adherence to all driving and testing laws and regulatory guidelines.
• Excellent observational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to identify and document anomalies accurately.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, capable of producing clear and concise reports.
• Pass background checks and drug screenings as often as company required.
• Experience with autonomous vehicle systems is preferred; candidates with at least 1 year of experience in operating or testing Level 2-4 autonomous vehicles will be given priority.

Additional Information

• Compensation: Competitive salary based on experience, with opportunities for performance bonuses.
• Benefits: Health insurance, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.
• Location: Testing primarily based in Houston, with potential travel to other sites as needed.