CDL-A Cold Weather Test Driver

Technical Professionals Group; Fairbanks (AK); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Technical Professionals Group, LLC (TPG) is seeking an experienced CDL Test Driver for a winter testing program in Alaska. You will conduct pre-trip inspections, perform specialized tests on heavy-duty electric vehicles, and document performance observations for engineering teams.

This seasonal, project-based role focuses on winter vehicle development, durability, and safety. You will work closely with engineers, collect data, and help validate prototype vehicles under extreme cold conditions.

Qualifications

• Must have a valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL-A) with a safe driving record.
• Extensive experience operating heavy-duty commercial vehicles (Class 8 preferred).
• Ability to operate heavy vehicles in winter conditions (snow, ice, extreme cold).
• Strong mechanical and technical aptitude; ability to describe and communicate vehicle performance concerns.
• Experience performing pre-trip and post-trip inspections and reporting issues.
• Ability to follow detailed testing procedures and safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate heavy-duty electric commercial vehicles, including pre-production models, in winter conditions.
• Perform comprehensive pre-trip and post-trip inspections; document issues.
• Execute structured testing procedures and engineering-directed driving assignments.
• Evaluate and record vehicle behavior, handling, braking, traction, and stability in winter weather.
• Monitor performance and identify anomalies or faults during testing.
• Record, organize, and communicate test data to engineering teams.
• Assist engineering with troubleshooting and repeat testing to verify concerns.
• Maintain clear test logs and documentation; adhere to safety protocols.

Skills

CDL-A Driving

Heavy-Duty Vehicles

Mechanical Aptitude

Observation & Reporting

Safety Compliance

Job description

Technical Professionals Group, LLC (TPG) is seeking highly experienced and technically skilled CDL Test Driver (Winter Testing) to support a seasonal winter testing program on behalf of a leading electric commercial vehicle manufacturer.

Drivers will conduct pre-trip safety inspections, execute specialized testing procedures, collect and document vehicle performance data, and provide detailed observations and technical feedback to engineering teams for further analysis, troubleshooting, and vehicle development.

This is a seasonal, project-based position specifically supporting winter vehicle testing.

At TPG, we provide experienced automotive professionals to support vehicle manufacturers in research, development, testing, and validation programs. As a TPG team member, you will have the opportunity to work directly with advanced electric commercial vehicle technology, contributing to the evaluation of vehicle performance, durability, reliability, and safety under demanding winter conditions.

This is not a traditional commercial driving position. Our drivers play an important role in the vehicle development process, combining extensive behind-the-wheel experience with technical awareness, precise observation, and disciplined testing procedures.

The Driver's Primary Responsibilities Will Be To

• Safely operate specialized heavy-duty electric commercial vehicles, including pre-production models and prototypes, in a variety of real-world winter driving conditions.
• Conduct comprehensive pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections, identifying and documenting mechanical, electrical, operational, or safety-related concerns.
• Execute structured vehicle testing procedures and engineering-directed driving assignments in accordance with established protocols.
• Evaluate and document vehicle behavior, handling, braking, traction, stability, and overall performance in adverse weather conditions, including snow, ice, and extreme cold.
• Monitor vehicle performance and recognize unusual behavior, system alerts, faults, or potential operational concerns during testing.
• Accurately collect, record, and communicate test data, vehicle observations, and performance-related findings to engineering and technical teams.
• Assist engineering personnel with troubleshooting, diagnostic observations, and repeat testing to help identify or verify vehicle performance concerns.
• Follow established safety protocols, testing procedures, and operational guidelines while working with specialized prototype vehicles.
• Maintain clear and accurate test logs, inspection reports, and other required documentation.
• Collaborate closely with engineering, testing, and project personnel to support daily testing objectives and program milestones.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Must have a valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL-A) with a safe driving record.
• Extensive professional experience operating heavy-duty commercial vehicles, preferably Class 8 vehicles.
• Demonstrated ability to safely operate heavy commercial vehicles in adverse winter weather conditions, including snow, ice, freezing temperatures, and reduced visibility.
• Strong mechanical and technical aptitude, with the ability to recognize, describe, and communicate vehicle performance concerns.
• Experience performing detailed pre-trip and post-trip inspections and identifying potential mechanical or operational issues.
• Ability to accurately follow detailed technical instructions, specialized test procedures, and safety protocols.
• Strong observational, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to document findings clearly and communicate effectively with engineering and technical personnel.
• High level of professionalism, sound judgment, situational awareness, and commitment to safe vehicle operation.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing test plans, vehicle configurations, and environmental conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in automotive testing, vehicle validation, proving grounds, or research and development environments.
• Experience operating electric commercial vehicles or familiarity with high-voltage electric vehicle systems.
• Understanding of vehicle dynamics, braking systems, traction control, stability systems, and electronic vehicle monitoring systems.
• Experience working with prototype vehicles, diagnostic equipment, vehicle data collection systems, or specialized testing procedures.
• Experience collaborating directly with automotive engineers, test technicians, or vehicle development teams.

What Makes This Opportunity Unique

• Advanced vehicle technology: Gain hands-on experience with next-generation electric commercial vehicles.
• Specialized winter testing: Apply your heavy vehicle driving expertise in demanding real-world winter environments.
• Direct engineering support: Contribute observations and testing results that help influence vehicle development, performance, and safety.
• Purpose-driven driving: Put your CDL experience to work in a technically challenging environment focused on vehicle innovation rather than traditional freight transportation.

Other Important Considerations Include

• Safety: Safety-sensitive position subject to applicable driver qualification requirements, drug screening, and established testing protocols
• Work Environment: Winter road testing in challenging and potentially extreme weather conditions
• Prolonged routine sitting for 8 or more hours with the requirement to lift at least 25 lbs.

The TPG Team

While our roots are in automotive design and engineering, our passion is providing premium proving & durability results to the entire automotive market. From large multinational manufacturers to small EV & technology start-ups looking to take the next big step forward, our Project Teams are deployed across the country working on the latest advancements in the automotive industry. Our focus is validation, durability, mileage accumulation and quality testing services for the engineering, R&D, and quality control sectors. At TPG, we are professional auto project specialists providing safety-oriented driving, mechanical/technician support, and comprehensive site management tailored specifically for automotive proving, testing, and durability. To learn more visit www.techprofgroup.com.