ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Automotive Test Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VinFast

Professional Test Driver

Carolina Beach, NC · On-site

$13.75 - $17/hr

VinFast is a pioneering electric vehicle (EV) company committed to revolutionizing the automotive ... Valid CDL Class A or B * Minimum 5 years of professional on-road test driving experience across ...

VinFast

Professional Test Driver

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Based in Raleigh, North Carolina, the Professional Test Driver will operate pre-production and ... Graduate of Technical College or higher in Automotive Engineering, Mechanics, Electrical, or ...

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver

Auburn, WA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

The automotive sector is currently living a moment of deep technological change. At IDIADA, we ... Driver Operator Applus IDIADA is seeking Driver Operators to join our team. The ideal candidate is ...

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver

Riverside, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

The automotive sector is currently living a moment of deep technological change. At IDIADA, we ... Driver Operator Applus IDIADA is seeking Driver Operators to join our team. The ideal candidate is ...

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver

Riverside, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

The automotive sector is currently living a moment of deep technological change. At IDIADA, we ... Driver Operator Applus IDIADA is seeking Driver Operators to join our team. The ideal candidate is ...

Apply Early

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver

Bloomington, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

The automotive sector is currently living a moment of deep technological change. At IDIADA, we ... Driver Operator Applus IDIADA is seeking Driver Operators to join our team. The ideal candidate is ...

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver

Bloomington, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

The automotive sector is currently living a moment of deep technological change. At IDIADA, we ... Driver Operator Applus IDIADA is seeking Driver Operators to join our team. The ideal candidate is ...

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver

Elkton, MD

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

The automotive sector is currently living a moment of deep technological change. At IDIADA, we ... Driver Operator Applus IDIADA is seeking Driver Operators to join our team. The ideal candidate is ...

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver

Elkton, MD · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

The automotive sector is currently living a moment of deep technological change. At IDIADA, we ... Driver Operator Applus IDIADA is seeking Driver Operators to join our team. The ideal candidate is ...

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver

Riverside, CA

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

The automotive sector is currently living a moment of deep technological change. At IDIADA, we ... Driver Operator Applus IDIADA is seeking Driver Operators to join our team. The ideal candidate is ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAutomotive Test Driver Jobs

Automotive Test Driver information

See salary details

$9

$19

$31

How much do automotive test driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive test driver in the United States is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Automotive Test Drivers face during vehicle testing?

Automotive Test Drivers often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing test conditions, maintaining concentration during repetitive driving cycles, and accurately documenting subtle differences in vehicle performance. Working closely with engineers, drivers must communicate feedback clearly and precisely, sometimes under tight deadlines. The role also requires adjusting to various weather conditions and test tracks, which can add physical and mental demands to the job.

What is the difference between Automotive Test Driver vs Vehicle Development Engineer?

AspectAutomotive Test DriverVehicle Development Engineer
Required CredentialsDriver's license, driving experienceEngineering degree, technical skills
Work EnvironmentOn-road testing, track, test facilitiesDesign labs, testing facilities, offices
Industry UsageTesting vehicles' performance and safetyDeveloping and improving vehicle systems
Common Search IntentDriving tests, vehicle handlingVehicle design, engineering processes

Automotive Test Drivers primarily focus on physically testing vehicles on roads or tracks to assess performance and safety, requiring driving skills and licenses. Vehicle Development Engineers, on the other hand, are involved in designing and engineering vehicle systems, requiring technical degrees and engineering expertise. While both roles are essential in the automotive industry, they differ in responsibilities, work environment, and skill requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automotive Test Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automotive Test Driver, you need a valid driver’s license, comprehensive understanding of automotive mechanics, and experience with various vehicle types. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, test data logging systems, and sometimes specialized certifications like a CDL or ASE are typically required. Strong attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to follow precise testing protocols help candidates excel in this role. These skills are crucial to ensure accurate vehicle evaluations, maintain safety standards, and provide valuable feedback for product improvement.

What are Automotive Test Drivers?

Automotive Test Drivers are professionals who operate vehicles under a variety of conditions to evaluate their performance, safety, and handling. They test prototypes, new models, and sometimes modified vehicles for manufacturers or automotive testing companies. Their feedback helps engineers and designers identify problems, improve vehicle design, and ensure compliance with safety and quality standards. Test drivers may also document their observations and assist with technical evaluations or diagnostic procedures.
More about Automotive Test Driver jobs
What cities are hiring for Automotive Test Driver jobs? Cities with the most Automotive Test Driver job openings:
What states have the most Automotive Test Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Automotive Test Driver jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Test Driver jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Test Driver jobs are:
Automotive Test Driver jobs near you
Test Driver - Portland

Test Driver - Portland

KETT ENGINEERING CORPORATION

Portland, OR • On-site

$24/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Kett Engineering is looking for project Test Drivers to work with us at our customer location in Portland, OR!

Successful candidates will drive and evaluate pre-production and prototype test vehicles for an upcoming test project.

We are looking for good, dependable, and safe drivers to evaluate vehicles and their systems. Drivers must be able to work 5 days a week, Monday through Friday. Strong technical and mechanical knowledge preferred. If you are a detail oriented safe driver and a vehicle enthusiast, this is the perfect position for you.

Shift hours:
1st shift: 6:00 am to 2:00 pm

2nd shift: 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm

3rd Shift: 10:00pm to 6:00 am

Qualifications Requirements:
Minimum five years licensed driving experience
Available to work 5 days a week, Monday through Friday. Saturdays might be implanted in future testing
Must be available to work any shift
Must possess current Oregon Drivers License
Must be able to drive both manual and automatic transmission vehicles well
Must be able to lift at least 25 pounds
High school graduate or equivalent required
All candidates will be required to pass a DOT physical, drug screen and driving test
Additional desired qualifications:
. Strong technical and mechanical aptitude highly preferred
Familiar with current trends in automotive industry including alternative fuel vehicles; Hybrids, fuel cell etc.
Ability to learn and operate new vehicle features (Ex: GPS, Navigation, Infotainment systems, etc...)
Attention to detail with the ability to communicate finding both verbally and in writing
Able to contribute to a team environment

Apply