1

Autonomous Vehicle Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... 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 ...

Autonomous Vehicle Test Driver

Santa Clara, CA

$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 ...

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 ...

Driver

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Vehicle Drivers We are helping our client find reliable, safety-focused Vehicle Drivers to support a leading autonomous vehicle and mobility technology program. In this role, you'll operate company ...

Driver

Represa, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Vehicle Drivers We are helping our client find reliable, safety-focused Vehicle Drivers to support a leading autonomous vehicle and mobility technology program. In this role, you'll operate company ...

Autonomous vehicle Operator with CDL

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$23.50 - $29.25/hr

... driver's license, and have at least three (3) years of experience as a Class C licensed driver to operate Class C vehicles. Key responsibilities: * Operate/Drive autonomous vehicles on both defined ...

Autonomous vehicle Operator with CDL

San Diego, CA · On-site

$23 - $29/hr

... driver's license, and have at least three (3) years of experience as a Class C licensed driver to operate Class C vehicles. Key responsibilities: * Operate/Drive autonomous vehicles on both defined ...

Autonomous vehicle Operator with CDL

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $32/hr

... driver's license, and have at least three (3) years of experience as a Class C licensed driver to operate Class C vehicles. Key responsibilities: * Operate/Drive autonomous vehicles on both defined ...

Autonomous vehicle Operator with CDL

San Diego, CA · On-site

$23 - $29/hr

... driver's license, and have at least three (3) years of experience as a Class C licensed driver to operate Class C vehicles. Key responsibilities: * Operate/Drive autonomous vehicles on both defined ...

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$19.75 - $24.25/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving ... Must be at least twenty-one (21) years old, possess a valid Class C driver's license, and have at ...

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $26.50/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving ... Must be at least twenty-one (21) years old, possess a valid Class C driver's license, and have at ...

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$19.75 - $24.25/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving ... Must be at least twenty-one (21) years old, possess a valid Class C driver's license, and have at ...

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $26.50/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving ... Must be at least twenty-one (21) years old, possess a valid Class C driver's license, and have at ...

Driver

Folsom, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

No autonomous vehicle experience is required. We're looking for individuals with strong driving ... Valid driver's license * Clean driving record with a strong history of safe driving * Ability to ...

Driver

Folsom, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

No autonomous vehicle experience is required. We're looking for individuals with strong driving ... Valid driver's license * Clean driving record with a strong history of safe driving * Ability to ...

Showing results 41-60

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:

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.

Test Driver / Vehicle Operator - Autonomous Vehicle Data Collection

TRUCKING PEOPLE

Mountain View, CA • On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Contractor

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Test Driver / Vehicle Operator – Autonomous Vehicle Data Collection
Location: Mountain View & San Francisco, CA (On-Site)
Pay: $25.00 – $28.00 per hour
Schedule:

  • AM Shift: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM

  • PM Shift: 2:30 PM – 10:30 PM

  • Shifts Available: Tuesday–Saturday or Sunday–Thursday
    Contract Length: Ongoing | Full-Time

About the Role
We’re seeking attentive and safety-focused Test Drivers / Vehicle Operators to support autonomous vehicle testing and data collection in Mountain View and San Francisco. In this role, you’ll operate test vehicles on designated routes, record critical data, and collaborate with engineering teams to advance self-driving technology.

This is a hands-on, full-time position ideal for detail-oriented drivers who want to contribute to the development of next-generation mobility systems.

Key Responsibilities

  • Safely drive test vehicles on assigned routes for 4–8 hours daily while following all traffic and safety protocols.

  • Conduct pre- and post-trip vehicle inspections to ensure readiness.

  • Operate in-vehicle software and assist with data collection and logging systems.

  • Document observations, issues, and system anomalies in detail.

  • Work closely with engineers to support testing, troubleshooting, and performance feedback.

  • Assist with vehicle logistics, storage, and basic maintenance tasks.

Requirements

  • Valid U.S. driver’s license with a clean driving record.

  • No moving violations in the past 12 months and no DUIs or criminal history.

  • Basic knowledge of vehicles and driving systems.

  • Comfortable driving for extended periods (4–8 hours daily).

  • Strong attention to detail and critical thinking skills.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

  • Must be able to work onsite in both Mountain View and San Francisco.

  • Flexible availability for AM or PM shifts (Tue–Sat or Sun–Thu).

Benefits

  • Employer-subsidized healthcare coverage.

  • Pre-tax commuter benefits.

  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for healthcare costs.

  • Company-paid disability and life insurance.

  • 401(k) retirement plan.

How to Apply
Submit your application and check your email inbox for next steps. Join the team shaping the future of autonomous vehicle technology in the Bay Area!

Powered by JazzHR

Y91VvaZB9C


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