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Autonomous Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Gatik AI

Autonomous Vehicle Test Driver

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

About the role Join Gatik in Santa Clara, CA and help support the future of autonomous trucking. In this role, you will operate CDL or box trucks while working alongside advanced vehicle technology ...

Gatik AI

Autonomous Vehicle Test Driver

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

About the role Join Gatik in Santa Clara, CA and help support the future of autonomous trucking. In this role, you will operate CDL or box trucks while working alongside advanced vehicle technology ...

TRUCKING PEOPLE

Autonomous Field Test Driver

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Test Driver / Vehicle Operator - Autonomous Vehicle Data Collection Location: Sunnyvale, CA (On-Site, with travel to San Francisco) Pay: $25.00 - $28.00 per hour Schedule: * PM Shift: 2:30 PM - 10:30 ...

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All JobsAutonomous Driver JobsAutonomous Driver Jobs in California

Autonomous Driver information

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$9

$18

$30

How much do autonomous driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for autonomous driver in California is $18.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $19.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an autonomous driver?

Autonomous drivers are systems or technologies that enable vehicles to operate without direct human control. These systems use a combination of sensors, cameras, radar, and artificial intelligence to perceive their environment and make driving decisions. Autonomous drivers are commonly found in self-driving cars, trucks, and delivery vehicles, aiming to improve safety and efficiency on the roads. People working as autonomous driver operators may monitor these vehicles, intervene if needed, and help collect data to improve the technology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an autonomous driver?

To thrive as an Autonomous Driver, you need a solid understanding of vehicle operation, traffic regulations, and safety protocols, often supported by a valid driver's license and specialized training in autonomous systems. Familiarity with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), GPS navigation, and telematics platforms is typically required. Strong situational awareness, problem-solving ability, and clear communication skills help ensure safe vehicle operation and effective coordination with remote teams. These skills and qualifications are vital for maintaining safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance in the rapidly evolving field of autonomous transportation.

What are some common challenges faced by autonomous drivers during vehicle testing, and how are they addressed?

Autonomous drivers often encounter challenges such as unpredictable road conditions, interpreting the behavior of human drivers, and managing system handovers between manual and autonomous control. To address these, thorough training is provided on safety protocols, real-time communication with engineering teams is maintained, and detailed reporting procedures are followed for any unexpected occurrences. Continuous feedback and debrief sessions help improve both the technology and operational processes, ensuring the team adapts to evolving scenarios and maintains high safety standards.

What is the difference between Autonomous Driver vs Commercial Driver?

AspectAutonomous DriverCommercial Driver
Required CredentialsNone or specialized training for operating autonomous vehicle systemsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) and specific certifications
Work EnvironmentOperating or overseeing autonomous vehicle technology, often in testing or deployment settingsDriving trucks, buses, or delivery vehicles in various environments
Industry UsageEmerging in autonomous vehicle development and testingEstablished in transportation, logistics, and delivery sectors

The main difference between Autonomous Driver and Commercial Driver lies in their roles and required credentials. Autonomous Drivers focus on managing or testing self-driving vehicle technology, often without traditional driving duties, while Commercial Drivers operate vehicles manually in transportation industries. Both roles are essential but serve different functions within the evolving transportation landscape.

What are popular job titles related to Autonomous Driver jobs in California?

For Autonomous Driver jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Autonomous Driver jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Autonomous Driver jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Autonomous Driver jobs?

Cities in California with the most Autonomous Driver job openings:

Autonomous Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autonomous Driver job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 54% Full Time, 43% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,484 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Vehicle Driver / Test Driver - Autonomous Vehicles

San Francisco, CA • On-site

TRUCKING PEOPLE
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about TRUCKING PEOPLEexternal

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 hours ago

Job description

Vehicle Driver / Test Driver - Autonomous Vehicles
San Francisco, CA | $22-$24/hr | Full-Time W-2
Looking for a driver job in San Francisco with consistent hours and an opportunity to work with new technology?
We're hiring Vehicle Drivers / Test Drivers to operate company-provided vehicles on designated routes and collect real-world driving data used to develop autonomous vehicle technology.
This opportunity is a great fit for experienced delivery drivers, professional drivers, rideshare drivers, fleet drivers, couriers, shuttle drivers, vehicle operators, and safety drivers.
No autonomous vehicle experience required.
Available Shifts
  • AM: 6:00 AM-2:30 PM
  • PM: 2:00 PM-10:30 PM
  • Full-time, 5-day work week
  • Weekend availability may be required
  • Initial training provided

What You'll Do
  • Safely operate company vehicles on assigned routes
  • Drive for extended periods in city, suburban, and highway environments
  • Support vehicle testing and driving data collection
  • Follow defensive driving and safety procedures
  • Complete pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections
  • Use smartphones, navigation tools, and company applications
  • Document driving observations and route information
  • Communicate with fleet, dispatch, and operations teams
  • Maintain vehicle cleanliness and readiness

Driver Requirements
  • Valid U.S. driver's license held for at least 4 years
  • Clean driving record
  • Strong safe and defensive driving habits
  • Comfortable driving for extended periods
  • Strong situational awareness and attention to detail
  • Comfortable driving in city traffic and on highways
  • Basic smartphone and computer skills
  • Able to follow detailed routes and procedures
  • Reliable and punctual

Driving Experience
Experience in any of these areas is a plus:
Uber Lyft Amazon Delivery DoorDash Delivery Driver Courier Driver Shuttle Driver Fleet Driver Professional Driver Test Driver Vehicle Operator Safety Driver
Autonomous vehicle experience is not required.
Why Join?
  • $22-$24/hour
  • Full-time W-2 position
  • Company-provided vehicle
  • Consistent driving work
  • Work with autonomous vehicle technology
  • Build experience in vehicle testing, fleet operations, and data collection
  • Opportunity to enter the growing autonomous vehicle industry

Interview Process
30-Minute Virtual Interview → 30-Minute On-Site Interview
If you're an experienced, safety-focused driver with a clean driving record, apply today.
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About Trucking People

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Trucking People, based in Houston, TX, US, operates within the transportation and logistics industry. The company primarily focuses on providing reliable trucking services across the country. Though the exact date of establishment is not explicitly mentioned, Trucking People has managed to secure a reputable position within the industry. The company's mission is to facilitate smooth logistics for businesses by ensuring the timely and safe delivery of goods.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

2017

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