ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Autonomous Vehicle Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TEKsystems

Autonomous Vehicle Operator

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$30/hr

Operate autonomous vehicles on scheduled local routes, ensuring smooth and safe transit. * Prior ... Driver's License * Clean driving record; background check and MVR required * Ability to drive 6-8 ...

TRUCKING PEOPLE

Vehicle Driver II

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

... Drivers to support the development of next-generation autonomous vehicle technology. In this role ... Autonomous vehicle experience is required . Candidates with experience driving for Uber, Lyft ...

Trucking People

Vehicle Driver II

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

... Drivers to support the development of next-generation autonomous vehicle technology. In this role ... Autonomous vehicle experience is required . Candidates with experience driving for Uber, Lyft ...

Trucking People

Vehicle Driver II

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

... Drivers to support the development of next-generation autonomous vehicle technology. In this role ... Autonomous vehicle experience is required . Candidates with experience driving for Uber, Lyft ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsAutonomous Vehicle Driver JobsAutonomous Vehicle Driver Jobs in California

Autonomous Vehicle Driver information

See California salary details

$9

$27

$66

How much do autonomous vehicle driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for autonomous vehicle driver in California is $27.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.54 and $30.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an autonomous vehicle driver?

Autonomous vehicle drivers are professionals responsible for overseeing and operating self-driving vehicles during testing and development. Their main duties include monitoring the vehicle's performance, intervening in case of system failures, and reporting issues to engineers. Although the vehicles are designed to drive themselves, these drivers ensure safety by taking control when needed and providing feedback to improve autonomous technology. They often work closely with engineering teams to enhance the reliability and safety of autonomous systems.

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

To thrive as an Autonomous Vehicle Driver, you need a valid driver's license, familiarity with safe driving practices, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with vehicle monitoring systems, telematics software, and sometimes specialized training or certification in autonomous vehicle operations is typically required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to remain alert for extended periods are vital soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the safe testing and operation of autonomous vehicles, helping to identify issues and support development teams in a rapidly evolving industry.

What are some common challenges faced by autonomous vehicle drivers during testing phases?

Autonomous Vehicle Drivers often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing testing protocols and unexpected road scenarios. They must remain highly alert to take control if the vehicle encounters a situation it cannot handle, ensuring safety at all times. Additionally, effective communication with engineers and reporting detailed feedback about the vehicle’s performance are crucial parts of the role. Working in this position typically requires a flexible schedule, as testing can take place at various times and locations.

What is the difference between Autonomous Vehicle Driver vs Delivery Driver?

AspectAutonomous Vehicle DriverDelivery Driver
Required CredentialsValid driver’s license, safety trainingValid driver’s license, delivery certification (optional)
Work EnvironmentPassenger or freight vehicles, often in urban areasVans, trucks, or cars delivering goods
Employer & IndustryTech companies, transportation servicesRetail, food services, logistics companies

While both roles involve driving, Autonomous Vehicle Drivers operate in environments focused on testing or supervising self-driving cars, often requiring safety training and licenses. Delivery Drivers focus on transporting goods directly to customers, working in retail or logistics sectors. The key difference lies in the automation aspect and job responsibilities related to autonomous technology.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Autonomous Vehicle Driver jobs?

Cities in California with the most Autonomous Vehicle Driver job openings:

Autonomous Vehicle Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autonomous Vehicle Driver job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, and 60% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,223 per year, or $28 per hour.

Autonomous vehicle driver (no experience required)

TRUCKING PEOPLE

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$29/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Level 3 Vehicle Operator (Contract)

Location: San Francisco, CA, United States
Work Environment: In-person
Pay: $29.00 per hour
Schedule: Full-time (30+ hours/week)
Assignment Length: Contract
Opportunity End Date: 04/06/2026

Job Description

An on-demand autonomous ride-hailing organization is seeking a Level 3 Vehicle Operator to support the development and deployment of self-driving vehicle technology.

In this role, you will ensure safety, maintain vehicle readiness, perform software and hardware testing, and serve as a public-facing representative. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams including computer vision, infrastructure, sound design, strategy, vehicle engineering, and ride operations.

This position offers hands-on exposure to the operational challenges of autonomous mobility and an opportunity to contribute to the future of transportation.

Compensation Bonuses
  • Weekend shifts: +5% hourly bonus
  • Night shifts (starting at 1 p.m. or later): +2% hourly bonus
  • Combined bonus potential: up to +7%
Shift Options

Day Shifts:

  • 5:45am – 2:15pm
  • 6:45am – 3:15pm
  • 7:45am – 4:15pm

Night Shifts:

  • 1:45pm – 10:15pm
  • 2:45pm – 11:15pm
  • 3:45pm – 12:15am
  • 5:45pm – 2:00am

Workdays:

  • Wednesday – Sunday
  • Thursday – Monday
  • Friday – Tuesday
  • Saturday – Wednesday
Key Responsibilities
  • Support daily vehicle operations
  • Drive 4–8 hours per day with a focus on safety
  • Perform basic software operation tasks
  • Assist with testing missions both in and out of vehicles
  • Document observations and maintain metrics
  • Provide written and verbal feedback to engineering teams
  • Conduct basic preventative maintenance and vehicle checks
  • Support logistics, including vehicle movement and storage
  • Ensure cleanliness and readiness of vehicles and equipment
  • Complete required documentation and paperwork
Qualifications
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Clean driving record and no criminal history
  • Ability to drive for extended periods (up to 6+ hours daily)
  • Basic technical aptitude and troubleshooting ability
  • Proactive and resourceful mindset
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent technical experience
  • Military experience

Contact:
Teresa
346-646-3662

Powered by JazzHR

2ZWqEzDRtI

Trucking People logo

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

View All Trucking People Jobs