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Autonomous Vehicle Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Torc Robotics

Autonomous Fleet Specialist 2nd Shift

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$62K - $79K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Comply with Torc's policy regarding the use of alcohol and drugs if operating a vehicle, which ... Passion for autonomous vehicles, vehicle maintenance, long distance driving. Perks of Being a ...

Torc Robotics

Autonomous Fleet Specialist 2nd Shift

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$62K - $79K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Comply with Torc's policy regarding the use of alcohol and drugs if operating a vehicle, which ... Passion for autonomous vehicles, vehicle maintenance, long distance driving. Perks of Being a ...

Torc Robotics

Software Engineer, II - Autonomy Data

Blacksburg, VA · On-site +1

$100K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

At Torc, we have always believed that autonomous vehicle technology will transform how we travel ... Moving large scale sensor data reliably from vehicles operating in demanding environments and ...

Forterra

Autonomy Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... vehicles operated by our national security customers around the world. The ideal candidate has a strong software development background, familiarity with robotics and autonomous systems, and proven ...

Forterra

Lead Autonomy Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$150 - $250/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... vehicles operated by our national security customers around the world. The ideal candidate has a strong software development background, familiarity with robotics and autonomous systems, and proven ...

Forterra

Lead Autonomy Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... vehicles operated by our national security customers around the world. The ideal candidate has a strong software development background, familiarity with robotics and autonomous systems, and proven ...

Forterra

Senior Payloads Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120 - $200/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... vehicles operated by our national security customers around the world. The ideal candidate has a strong software development background, familiarity with robotics and autonomous systems, and proven ...

Forterra

Senior Payloads Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... vehicles operated by our national security customers around the world. The ideal candidate has a strong software development background, familiarity with robotics and autonomous systems, and proven ...

EKS Group

Cab Driver Role Player

Arlington, VA · On-site

$18/hr

Successful completion of EKS Safety Course, GSA Vehicle Driver Agreement, GSA Vehicle Operator ... Autonomy: Effectively work alone with limited guidance. * Adaptability: Adapt to changing work ...

EKS Group

Cab Driver Role Player

Arlington, VA

$15/hr

Successful completion of EKS Safety Course, GSA Vehicle Driver Agreement, GSA Vehicle Operator ... Autonomy: Effectively work alone with limited guidance. * Adaptability: Adapt to changing work ...

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All JobsAutonomous Vehicle Operator JobsAutonomous Vehicle Operator Jobs in Virginia

Autonomous Vehicle Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$23

$30

How much do autonomous vehicle operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for autonomous vehicle operator in Virginia is $23.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.72 and $25.96 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 Virginia?

The most popular types of Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in Virginia?

For Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in Virginia are:

Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autonomous Vehicle Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,298 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Autonomous Vehicle Operator

Trillium Staffing

Arlington, VA

$23/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Other

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Autonomous Vehicle Operator

Trillium Staffing is now seeking Autonomous Vehicle and Test Operators in Arlington, TX!

There are part time positions. Candidates must have weekend availability. There will be 4 weeks of paid training, 4 hours per day, Monday-Friday. Candidates are needed on 1st or 2nd shift. 1st shift starts at 7am and 2nd shift starts at 1pm. The pay rate is $23/hour.

Responsibilities

In this role, you will be at the forefront of autonomous vehicle testing, contributing to the advancement of cutting-edge technology while ensuring the highest safety standards. Operate autonomous vehicles safely and lawfully to collect critical data on system performance and environmental factors. Interact professionally with riders, engineers, and company operations leaders to provide feedback and insights. Monitor vehicle performance and conduct in-field testing to ensure operational safety. Prepare vehicles daily for in-field operations, including safety checks and system readiness. Submit detailed reports to support system advancements and operational improvements. Be prepared for the actions of other drivers and pedestrians as well as for unexpected events. Be alert and distraction free while in vehicles.

We are searching for attentive and detail-oriented drivers to join our client's team of Autonomous Vehicle Operators. In this role, you will be at the forefront of autonomous vehicle testing, contributing to the advancement of cutting-edge technology while ensuring the highest safety standards.

This position is ideal for those with excellent driving skills, a passion for innovation, and an ability to act swiftly and safely in potentially adverse driving situations.

Qualifications

Experience as an autonomous vehicle operator, driving instructor, motorsports racer, or other profession requiring the skills and use of safe and defensive driving. A valid US driving license for the last 3+ years. Must have a clean driving record with no DUIs, drug, and/or alcohol-related offenses within the last 5 years. Able to anticipate hazardous situations and act quickly and safely, despite adverse conditions or the mistakes of others when operating a motor vehicle. Have a thorough knowledge of local traffic regulations. Excellent communication skills and a strong attention to detail. A willingness to work in various weather conditions and comfortable driving on different types of roads. Takes ownership with a high level of responsibility.

Preferred Qualifications: Knowledge of vehicle technology and control systems. Certification from safe driving or defensive driving courses. Additional courses in Safety Driving or Defensive Driving.

Trillium Driver Solutions has been recruiting and hiring CDL and Non-CDL Drivers for over 30 years. Whether you are seeking casual work or a full time driving career, let the experts at Trillium put you behind the wheel. Our clients range from Fortune 100 companies to small businesses, but our philosophy remains the same: to achieve excellence by providing quality employees with an uncompromising level of service. We believe in honesty, integrity, and a simple philosophy of providing value to our customers and our employees. Trillium is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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