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Autonomous Vehicle Operator Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Kett Engineering

Vehicle Operator

Troy, MI · On-site

$18/hr

Experience and training on providing subjective feedback on vehicle behaviors and environment Local knowledge of streets, geography and environmental features that may be challenging for autonomous ...

Kett Engineering

Vehicle Operator

Troy, MI · On-site

$18/hr

Experience and training on providing subjective feedback on vehicle behaviors and environment Local knowledge of streets, geography and environmental features that may be challenging for autonomous ...

Transdev

L3 - Specialist - Canary

Novi, MI · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

The Level 1-3 Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, offering ride hail service to the ...

Transdev

L3 - Specialist - Canary

Novi, MI · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

The Level 1-3 Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, offering ride hail service to the ...

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All JobsAutonomous Vehicle Operator JobsAutonomous Vehicle Operator Jobs in Detroit, MI

Autonomous Vehicle Operator information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$13

$23

$30

How much do autonomous vehicle operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for autonomous vehicle operator in Detroit, MI is $23.67, 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 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 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 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.

How much does an autonomous vehicle operator make?

Autonomous vehicle operators typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the company. Some roles may offer additional benefits or shift differentials, especially for night or weekend shifts.

What are the most commonly searched types of Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in Detroit, MI?

The most popular types of Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What are popular job titles related to Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in Detroit, MI?

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

What job categories do people searching Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in Detroit, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Autonomous Vehicle Operator job openings:

Autonomous Vehicle Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autonomous Vehicle Operator job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,225 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Vehicle Operator

Kett Engineering

Troy, MI • On-site

$18/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities and Duties

MUST BE ABLE TO TRAVEL OUT OF STATE & BE AWAY FROM HOME 8-12 WEEKS AT A TIME FOR TEST TRIPS
Operate prototype-level ADAS Vehicles on both defined and undefined routes, including a variety of geographic and environmental conditions.
Operate in-vehicle data recording computers, including start/stop recording, data marking and minor debugging when issues arise.
Provide clear, accurate and useful subjective feedback to the engineering teams on vehicle behavior observed.
Ensure the safe operation of our test vehicles on public roads.
The position requires travel.

Drivers will have no issues with being on a plane, in a hotel, driving a rental car in a city you are not familiar with.

PAYRATE $18.00/HOUR
MUST BE WILLING AND ABLE TO TRAVEL

Qualifications Requirements:

Must be able to pass the pre-employment drug and background screens
High School Diploma or Equivalent
Decent computer skills required
Clean driving record for past 3 years
Able to pass drug and background screening

Must be able to work a smartphone and tablet
MUST BE ABLE TO TRAVEL OUT OF STATE 8 - 12 WEEKS AT A TIME

Nice to Haves (Preferred Qualifications)
Basic working knowledge of ADAS vehicle technology including data acquisition, ACC (adaptive cruise control), PEB (predictive emergency braking), Self-Driving Technology, AD/HAD, etc.
Experience and training on providing subjective feedback on vehicle behaviors and environment
Local knowledge of streets, geography and environmental features that may be challenging for autonomous vehicles, based on position posting location.

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!