Mission Operator - Long Beach, CA (Contract)

Latitude AI LLC; Long Beach, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 36,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Latitude AI LLC is seeking a Mission Operator in Long Beach, CA for a contract role. You will drive test vehicles for long-distance missions and daily operations, perform startup/shutdown procedures, and monitor both software and hardware systems while traveling across the U.S.

The position requires a valid license, ability to pass screenings, and comfort with extended travel. The role emphasizes safety, accurate reporting, and collaboration with engineers to improve automated driving systems.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED plus two years of work experience; degree preferred.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving history according to company standards.
• Ability to pass drug screening and background checks prior to employment.
• Willingness to travel and spend long hours driving in close quarters with others.
• Strong interest in technology and quick adaptability to new tools.
• Proficient with computers and basic web-based applications; troubleshooting focus.

Responsibilities

• Drive test vehicles for long-distance missions and travel up to 50% of the time.
• Operate on rotating schedules and perform daily vehicle startup and shutdown procedures.
• 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 outcomes.
• Collaborate with engineers to provide feedback on system performance.

Skills

Driving

Tech-savviness

Troubleshooting

Safety focus

Autonomy

Team collaboration

Adaptability

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Associate or Bachelor’s Degree preferred

Tools

Jira

Slack

Driver Schedule

Vehicle diagnostics tools

Job description

Mission Operator - Long Beach, CA (Contract)

Long Beach, CA

Latitude AI (lat.ai ) develops automated driving technologies, including L3, for Ford vehicles at scale. We’re driven by the opportunity to reimagine what it’s like to drive and make travel safer, less stressful, and more enjoyable for everyone.

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 making a real, positive impact on the driving experience for millions of people.

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

Learn more about Latitude’s team, mission and career opportunities at lat.ai !

The expected hourly pay range for this contract position in California is $26.39 - $39.59/hour USD. Actual starting pay will be based on job-related factors, including exact work location, experience, relevant training and education, and skill level.

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.