Mission Operator - Detroit, MI (Contractor, Overnight Shift)

Socket.dev; Allen Park (MI); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Latitude AI is seeking a Test Driver to support Ford’s autonomous vehicle program. You will drive test vehicles on long and short routes, travel across the U.S., and work closely with engineers to evaluate software and hardware performance in real-world conditions.

The role requires a high school diploma or GED with relevant experience, a valid state driver’s license, and comfort with extensive travel. You’ll operate test vehicles, document results, and uphold strict safety standards in a

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED with two years of employment experience.
• Valid driver’s license in the state of residence with a clean driving record as verified by MVR checks.
• Ability to pass ten-panel drug screening and criminal background checks.
• Comfortable spending long hours driving and working in close quarters with others.
• Strong interest in technology and quick adaptation to challenges and changes.

Responsibilities

• Drive test vehicles for long-distance local missions (up to 300–400 miles) and extensive travel (up to 50%).
• Operate on rotating schedules and manage daily vehicle startup, engagement, and shutdown.
• Monitor and troubleshoot software and hardware systems while on the road.
• Execute tests following strict safety and compliance protocols.
• Maintain accurate reports on vehicle performance and feedback to engineers.
• Collaborate with engineers to provide insights on system performance.

Skills

Valid driver's license

Attention to detail

Technical aptitude

Ability to travel

Autonomy

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Associate or Bachelor’s Degree preferred

Tools

Jira

Slack

Driver Schedule

Job description

Latitude AI (lat.ai) is building the future of Ford’s autonomy roadmap to make travel safer, less stressful, and more enjoyable for everyone. Bringing this vision to scale, our fully in-house developed hands-free ADAS platform will debut on Ford’s all-new Universal Electric Vehicle in 2027.

When you join the Latitude team, you’ll work alongside leading experts across machine learning and robotics, cloud platforms, mapping, sensors and compute systems, test operations, systems and safety engineering – all dedicated to redefining the relationship between people and their vehicles for millions of customers.

As a Ford Motor Company subsidiary, we operate independently to develop automated driving technology at the speed of a technology startup. Latitude is headquartered in Pittsburgh with engineering centers in Dearborn, Mich., and Palo Alto, Calif.

Meet the team:

Fleet Operations is where cutting-edge technology meets real-world application. As a Test Driver, you’ll play a vital role in the development testing that drives software and performance improvements. Our dedication to precision shapes the future of driving.

What you’ll do:

• Drive test vehicles for long-distance local missions (up to 300-400 miles) and on extensive travel missions (up to 50% travel), including multi-day trips across the U.S.
• Operate on rotating schedules.
• Perform daily start-up, system engagement/disengagement, and shutdown procedures for development vehicles.
• Actively monitor and troubleshoot both software and hardware systems while on the road.
• Execute testing in accordance with strict safety and compliance protocols.
• Maintain accurate and detailed reports on vehicle performance.
• Collaborate closely with engineers to provide feedback and insight on system performance.
• Represent the organization professionally and responsibly while driving in public environments, prioritizing the safety of all road users.
• Requires the ability to travel (including air).

What you'll need to succeed:

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent with two years of employment experience required. Associate or Bachelor’s Degree preferred.
• Must have a valid driver’s license in the state of residence and ability to meet Latitude AI’s minimum driving record requirements, as verified by Motor Vehicle Record background checks prior to hire and periodically thereafter.
• Ability to pass ten-panel drug screening and criminal background checks conducted prior to employment and periodically thereafter.
• Comfortable spending long hours driving and working in close quarters with others, maintaining professionalism and focus.
• Strong interest in technology, adapting quickly to challenges and embracing changes.
• Technical proficiency with computers; for example typing, checking network connections, navigating web-based applications.
• Basic troubleshooting skills with an ability to identify issues with both software and hardware.
• Contributes to a positive and professional work environment while working with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Capability to thrive autonomously or with limited oversight.
• A strong sense of responsibility and reliability—show up on time, ready to work every day.
• Curiosity and excitement about learning new technologies.

Nice to have:

• Prior experience in technical driving, fleet operations, or vehicle testing environments where compliance and adherence to procedures were crucial.
• Familiarity with vehicle diagnostics and data logging tools.
• Familiarity with work management tools like Jira, Slack, Driver Schedule, etc.

Candidates for positions with Latitude AI must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a culturally diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status or protected veteran status.