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Autonomous Vehicle Operator Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

New York, NY · On-site

$20 - $24.50/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail ...

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

New York, NY · On-site

$20 - $24.50/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail ...

The Depot Operator/Specialist is responsible for perform all tasks necessary within operating ... Autonomous vehicle cleaning and disinfection; AV operational safety and integrity checks; AV ...

The Depot Operator/Specialist is responsible for perform all tasks necessary within operating ... Autonomous vehicle cleaning and disinfection; AV operational safety and integrity checks; AV ...

VP, Physical AI GTM

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$200 - $450/hr

... operating at the VP or Sr. Director level specifically within the autonomous vehicle, robotics, or industrial AI sectors. * A robust, highly active network of C-level executives (CEOs, CTOs) and VP ...

VP, Physical AI GTM

New York, NY · On-site

$196K - $253K/yr

... operating at the VP or Sr. Director level specifically within the autonomous vehicle, robotics, or industrial AI sectors. - A robust, highly active network of C-level executives (CEOs, CTOs) and VP ...

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Autonomous Vehicle Operator information

See New York salary details

$15

$26

$34

How much do autonomous vehicle operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for autonomous vehicle operator in New York is $26.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.88 and $28.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an autonomous vehicle operator?

To thrive as an Autonomous Vehicle Operator, you need a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of road safety regulations. Familiarity with data logging systems, onboard diagnostics, and autonomous vehicle software platforms is typically required, and some employers may prefer candidates with technical certifications or experience in vehicle technology. Strong situational awareness, communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are important soft skills that set top operators apart. These skills ensure the safe operation and accurate monitoring of autonomous vehicles during testing or deployment, which is critical to both public safety and the advancement of autonomous driving technology.

What is an autonomous vehicle operator?

Autonomous vehicle operators are professionals responsible for overseeing the safe operation and testing of self-driving vehicles. They typically monitor the vehicle’s systems, take control when necessary, and report data or issues to engineering teams. Their role is essential in ensuring that autonomous vehicles perform safely during testing and development phases, often on public roads or closed tracks. Operators also help troubleshoot technical problems and contribute feedback to improve vehicle performance.

What are common challenges faced by autonomous vehicle operators during their daily tasks?

Autonomous Vehicle Operators often encounter challenges such as monitoring complex vehicle systems while maintaining consistent focus during long periods of testing. They must quickly respond to unexpected situations on the road, like erratic drivers or changing weather conditions, to ensure safety and accurate data collection. Effective communication with engineering and safety teams is essential, as operators regularly provide feedback and report anomalies to improve vehicle performance. Adaptability and strong attention to detail help operators excel in this dynamic, fast-evolving field.

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

AspectAutonomous Vehicle OperatorDelivery Driver
Required CredentialsDriver's license, safety training, sometimes certification in vehicle operationDriver's license, route knowledge, delivery-specific training
Work EnvironmentMonitoring autonomous vehicles, remote or on-site, in urban or suburban areasDriving vehicles to deliver goods, often on fixed routes or schedules
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, autonomous vehicle services, logistics firmsRetail, food services, courier companies

While both roles involve vehicle operation, Autonomous Vehicle Operators focus on overseeing and monitoring autonomous systems, often remotely or in controlled environments, whereas Delivery Drivers are responsible for physically delivering goods using traditional driving skills. The roles differ mainly in technology use and work setting, but both require valid licenses and safety awareness.

What are the most commonly searched types of Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in New York? The most popular types of Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in New York are:
What are popular job titles related to Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in New York? For Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in New York look for? The top searched job categories for Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in New York are:
Infographic showing various Autonomous Vehicle Operator job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,400 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

TSMG

New York, NY • On-site

$20 - $24.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Company description
 
Terry Soot Management Group (TSMG) is a field data collection company founded in 2017 in Europe. 
 
We collect data where automation is not possible. We count features, take pictures, make videos, record speech, and scan areas for every detail you need to make more informed decisions. Our field data collection teams are spread across Europe and North America, ready to accept new challenges.
 
Role Overview:
The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail service to the general public.
Eligibility:
  • Must be at least twenty-one (21) years old, possess a valid Class C  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 and undefined routes, including a variety of environmental conditions - driving (some manual driving but primarily monitoring the vehicle's behavior in autonomous mode) and (ii) software monitoring and logging responsibilities and providing verbal feedback/directions about the autonomous vehicles (AV) environment.
  • Test other aspects of our autonomous vehicles
  • Complete timely and detailed ride reports for our operations and engineering teams
  • Must be able to work specific shifts, including early mornings, evenings, and/or weekends, as well as overnight shifts 
  • Maintain high standard of safety, inside and outside of the vehicle.
Necessary skills:
  • Proficiency with a laptop and Office apps (i.e., Gmail, Sheets and Docs)
  • Proficiency using a handheld device/touchscreen smartphone 
  • Must have good attention to detail and be able to quickly and concisely describe their thoughts.
Physical requirements:
  • Occasional standing, walking, and long periods of sitting.
  • Use hands to finger; handle or feel; and talk or hear; climb stairs and/or ladders.
  • Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • Must be able to occasionally lift and/or move up to 45 pounds.
  • Must use close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • Most work is accomplished outdoors in a vehicle.
We would be happy to get to know you and your skills better and see how we can support each other's growth.

Please apply and let's meet!
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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