Prototype Vehicle Test Driver – Autonomy Focus

Socket.dev; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 83,527,000 - 125,304,000; Full time

Job summary

Latitude AI in California is seeking a Prototype Test Technician to drive test vehicles for long-distance missions, perform startup/shutdown sequences, and execute development testing under strict safety protocols.

You will troubleshoot software/hardware, document findings, and coordinate with engineering teams while ensuring professional conduct on public roads. This contract role offers an hourly pay range in California and requires travel, including air, as needed.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED with two years of employment experience; associate or bachelor's degree preferred.
• Must have a valid driver's license in the state of residence and meet Latitude AI's driving record requirements.
• Ability to pass ten-panel drug screening and criminal background checks prior to employment and periodically thereafter
• Comfortable spending long hours driving and working in close quarters with others
• Strong interest in technology and adapting quickly to challenges
• Technical proficiency with computers; knowledge of terminal commands and GitHub; ability to navigate command-line interfaces
• Excellent troubleshooting skills identifying issues with software and hardware
• Proficient in work management tools like Jira, Slack, Driver Schedule
• Contributes to a positive, professional work environment with diverse teammates
• Demonstrates sense of responsibility, reliability, and initiative
• Curiosity and eagerness to learn new technologies

Responsibilities

• Drive test vehicles for long-distance local missions (up to 300-400 miles) and select multi-day trips across the U.S.
• Perform daily start-up, engagement, disengagement, and shutdown procedures for development vehicles
• Execute testing in accordance with strict safety and compliance protocols
• Represent the organization professionally while driving in public environments, prioritizing safety
• Demonstrate expertise across development stages from software/hardware testing to mature systems
• Provide coaching and support to team members to improve performance
• May oversee and direct activities of a small shift or group
• Travel (including air) as required
• Diagnose in-depth issues using creative problem solving methods
• Communicate with cross-functional teams on architecture, sensors, and compute systems
• Follow build instructions and report on integration progress
• Assemble, modify, and repair prototype assets with hand tools and software
• Work solo or in small teams to troubleshoot and document processes
• Document configuration management, diagnostics, and asset health using systems/tools
• Track prototype build changes and schedule developmental modifications
• Analyze performance with product-focused lens and share findings with developers

Skills

Troubleshooting

Command-line interfaces

GitHub

Team collaboration

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Associate or Bachelor's Degree preferred

Tools

GitHub

Terminal commands

Jira

Slack

Driver Schedule

Job description

Latitude AI in California is seeking a Prototype Test Technician to drive test vehicles for long-distance missions, perform startup/shutdown sequences, and execute development testing under strict safety protocols.

You will troubleshoot software/hardware, document findings, and coordinate with engineering teams while ensuring professional conduct on public roads. This contract role offers an hourly pay range in California and requires travel, including air, as needed.