Senior AV Technician-2

AutoNation Inc.; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401k matching

Health, dental, vision insurance

Maternity benefits

Associate purchase program

YouDecide discounts

DRVPNK charitable initiatives

Job summary

AutoNation Inc. is seeking a Senior Autonomous Vehicle Technician to lead advanced diagnostics and repairs on our AV fleet. You will calibrate LiDAR, radar, cameras, and sensors while guiding junior technicians and partnering with engineering, operations, and safety teams to resolve escalated issues.

The role includes on-site work in Houston, field testing, and driving continuous improvement across the fleet through documentation and best-practice development.

Qualifications

• 5+ years as automotive/EV/robotics/AV technician with leadership or mentorship responsibilities
• Expert diagnostic skills for mechanical and electrical vehicle systems
• Hands-on with sensor systems (LiDAR, radar, cameras) and compute hardware
• Proficiency with diagnostic software, scan tools, electrical testing equipment, CAN/LIN networks
• Ability to interpret wiring diagrams and complex engineering docs
• Experience guiding junior technicians and leading technical teams

Responsibilities

• Lead advanced diagnostics and repair of AV powertrain, high-voltage, braking, suspension and sensor systems.
• Calibrate LiDAR, radar, cameras, GPS, IMUs and perception systems; validate sensor performance.
• Install, configure and replace AV components; support software deployments and data analysis.
• Conduct on-road and closed-course testing; respond to high-priority incidents and recoveries.
• Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Document repairs, diagnostics and testing; develop procedures and training materials.

Skills

Advanced diagnostics

Sensor systems (LiDAR, radar, cameras)

CAN/LIN diagnostics

Leadership / mentorship

Compute hardware familiarity

Linux command line

Education

ASE Master Technician or EV/Hybrid certification

Tools

Diagnostic software

Scan tools

Electrical testing equipment

Scripting for diagnostics

Job description

The Senior Autonomous Vehicle (AV) Technician is a highly skilled technical professional responsible for advanced diagnostics, repairs, calibrations, and system integrations on autonomous vehicles. In addition to performing complex AV work, this role provides technical leadership, mentorship, and guidance to AV technicians, ensuring best practices in fleet safety, reliability, and efficiency. The Senior AV Technician partners with engineering, operations, and safety teams to resolve escalated issues, implement technical projects, and drive continuous improvement initiatives across the fleet.Key ResponsibilitiesAdvanced Diagnostics & RepairLead complex mechanical and electrical troubleshooting for AV powertrain, braking, suspension, high-voltage, and advanced sensor systems.Diagnose, repair, and validate faults in CAN/LIN networks, AV compute hardware, and vehicle control modules.Perform root-cause analysis and resolve recurring technical issues across the fleet.Develop and implement technical repair procedures and best practices.Sensor & System CalibrationConduct precise calibrations and verification of LiDAR, radar, camera arrays, GPS units, IMUs, and perception systems.Validate sensor performance to meet stringent AV operational standards.Oversee testing and integration of updated or new sensor platforms.AV Hardware & Software SupportInstall, configure, and replace complex AV components, including compute modules, communication units, wiring harnesses, and networking systems.Support engineering teams with software deployments, system debugging, and advanced data analysis.Lead vehicle data collection, testing, and technical evaluations to guide hardware and firmware improvements.Field Operations & TestingProvide advanced troubleshooting during on-road and closed-course AV testing.Respond to high-priority operational incidents, vehicle recoveries, and technical escalations.Collaborate with remote monitoring and operations teams to resolve live AV issues.Technical Leadership & MentorshipMentor, train, and guide Advanced and other AV Technicians to build technical proficiency across the team.Lead continuous improvement initiatives, identifying trends and developing solutions to improve fleet reliability and safety.Serve as a subject-matter expert on AV platforms, contributing to engineering and operational discussions.Documentation & Continuous ImprovementMaintain comprehensive records of repairs, calibrations, diagnostics, and testing results in fleet management systems.Develop and refine technical documentation, procedures, and training materials.Drive process improvements and participate in cross-functional technical projects.Required Qualifications5+ years of experience as an automotive, EV, robotics, or AV technician, including leadership or mentorship responsibilities.Expert diagnostic skills with both mechanical and electrical vehicle systems.Hands-on experience with sensor systems (LiDAR, radar, cameras) and compute hardware.Proficiency with diagnostic software, scan tools, electrical testing equipment, and troubleshooting of CAN/LIN networks.Ability to interpret wiring diagrams, schematics, and complex engineering documentation.Experience providing technical guidance and mentoring junior technicians.Ability to lift 50–75 lbs, work under vehicles, and operate in field environments.Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.Preferred QualificationsASE Master Technician, EV/Hybrid certification, or OEM factory training.Experience with high-voltage systems (HV safety certification a plus).Knowledge of Linux command line and scripting for diagnostics and data analysis.Prior experience with autonomous vehicles, robotics, advanced ADAS, or mobility technology.Experience leading technical teams or managing fleet operations in fast-paced environments.Working ConditionsOn-site role; may require evening, weekend, or on-call support.Work performed in shop, lab, and outdoor operational environments.Occasional travel to remote testing or operational sites.ㅤExciting Benefits and Perks Await You:Competitive compensation and 401k matchingEnjoy a healthy work-life balance with insurance plans (health, dental, vision) and maternity benefits.Associate purchase and discount programs for new and pre-owned vehicles, services, parts, collision, accessories, and AutoGearAccess amazing deals and discounts through YouDecide, a website with offers from top providers and retailersJoin our DRVPNK mission to raise and donate millions of dollars to cancer research and treatment, partnering with cancer charities nationwideAutoNation is one of the largest automotive retailers in the United States, offering innovative products, exceptional services, and comprehensive solutions, empowering our customers to make the best decisions for their needs. With a network of dealerships nationwide strengthened by a recognized brand, we offer a wide variety of new and used vehicles, customer financing, parts, and provide expert maintenance and repair services. Through DRV PNK, we have raised over $40 million for cancer-related causes, demonstrating our commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of our Associates, Customers, and the communities we serve.AutoNation is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment in our workplace and the services we provide. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds who are passionate about making a positive impact. Even if you do not meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. Join our team and help us foster a culture of belonging while contributing to our revolutionary work in the automotive industry. We value innovation, teamwork, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world.