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Autonomous Vehicle Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Kett Engineering

Vehicle Test Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$24/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for operating, driving, troubleshooting and evaluating our ... Prior professional automotive driving or autonomous vehicle experience * Self-motivated, organized ...

Transdev

L2- Operator- TAS

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

This dynamic role encompasses autonomous vehicle operations, fleet logistics, and field recovery ... You will be responsible for operating and evaluating self-driving vehicles, providing ride-hail ...

Transdev

L2- Operator- TAS

Chicago, IL

$25 - $28/hr

This dynamic role encompasses autonomous vehicle operations, fleet logistics, and field recovery ... You will be responsible for operating and evaluating self-driving vehicles, providing ride-hail ...

Transdev

L3 - Training Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$29 - $32/hr

Minimum 3 months operating and testing autonomous vehicle required. Required Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs): * Proficiency with a laptop computer and GSuite apps (i.e. Gmail, Hangouts, and ...

Transdev

L3 - Training Specialist

Chicago, IL

$29 - $32/hr

Minimum 3 months operating and testing autonomous vehicle required. Required Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs): * Proficiency with a laptop computer and GSuite apps (i.e. Gmail, Hangouts, and ...

Transdev

Operations Supervisor - TAS

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Autonomous vehicles are the cornerstone of a rapidly changing mobility landscape. Transdev is at ... Ability to read, understand, and interpret system operating rules, regulations, policies, phases ...

Transdev

Operations Supervisor - TAS

Chicago, IL

$80K - $90K/yr

Autonomous vehicles are the cornerstone of a rapidly changing mobility landscape. Transdev is at ... Ability to read, understand, and interpret system operating rules, regulations, policies, phases ...

Transdev

Safety and Security Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Ensure compliance with Transdev's Autonomous Vehicle Division zero-tolerance policy regarding the use of alcohol or drugs by self-driving vehicle operators during a shift in coordination with the TAS ...

Transdev

Safety and Security Manager

Chicago, IL

$80K - $90K/yr

Ensure compliance with Transdev's Autonomous Vehicle Division zero-tolerance policy regarding the use of alcohol or drugs by self-driving vehicle operators during a shift in coordination with the TAS ...

Pae

Heavy Equipment Operator Lead

Chicago, IL

Safely and proficiently operate and/or over-see the operation of light vehicles such as pickups ... Operate autonomously to complete specific tasks and projects in support of Fleet Operations.

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All JobsAutonomous Vehicle Operator JobsAutonomous Vehicle Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Autonomous Vehicle Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$24

$32

How much do autonomous vehicle operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for autonomous vehicle operator in Chicago, IL is $24.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.54 and $27.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Autonomous Vehicle Operator, and why are they important?

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 are autonomous vehicle operators?

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 some 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? For Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autonomous Vehicle Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,264 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Vehicle Test Operator

Kett Engineering

Chicago, IL • On-site

$24/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Job Description:

Our Engineering Quality team is growing, and we are looking for Vehicle Operators. In this role, you will be responsible for operating, driving, troubleshooting and evaluating our prototype test vehicles and documenting product development feedback to our engineers. This takes the form of operating test vehicles statically, driving on public roads, or private test facilities, conducting safety inspections and performing specialized test procedures.


Shift Times:

1st shift: 6:00am - 2:30pm

2nd shift: 4:30pm - 1:00am


Responsibilities:

  • Safely operate test vehicles in a wide range of testing conditions up to 8 hours/day
  • Perform vehicle prep work, including basic vehicle inspections and diagnostics before and after driving
  • Troubleshoot hardware and software issues
  • Collect data via data acquisition systems
  • Complete clear, concise and detailed post drive reports and online tickets, working with and escalating to engineers as necessary
  • Assist with training of new vehicle operators
  • Additional work and tasks as needed by the team

Qualifications:

  • Prior professional automotive driving or autonomous vehicle experience
  • Self-motivated, organized and demonstrate good judgement in a fast-paced, high-stress environment
  • Attention to detail and able to describe events quickly and concisely
  • Good command of the English language with excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Proficiency in using a smartphone, laptop and Microsoft Office Suite
  • Ability to drive safely in all conditions and alone or with a partner for 6-8 hrs. a day
  • Must be flexible to work overtime as needed
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Must be able to pass an MVR (Motor Vehicle Record) background check and onsite road test examination

Bonus

  • Experience with Jira
  • Experience driving 16 ft or larger vehicles

Company Description

Established in 1953, Kett Engineering is a leader in the Automotive Test and Personnel Services industry. Our goal is to provide our Automotive and OEM customers with superior service.

The strength and success of Kett clearly comes from the people behind the organization. Our workforce is comprised of dedicated, talented and hard working individuals with years of industry experience.

If you have an interest in automotive technology industry, a passion for excellence and a desire to exceed expectations then, we want you on are our team!