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Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TSMG

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$18 - $22.25/hr

Test other aspects of our autonomous vehicles ... Complete timely and detailed ride reports for our operations and engineering teams * Must be able ...

SmartIPlace

Autonomous test specialist

Miami, FL · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

... vehicle test results, identifying issues and categorizing them for engineering review and ... Create clear reports that help autonomy engineers quickly understand test outcomes, risks, and ...

Gatik AI

Autonomous Vehicle Test Driver

Denison, TX · On-site

$27 - $31/hr

Work closely with engineering teams to test, evaluate, and refine our self-driving technology * Use ... Be part of cutting-edge autonomous vehicle innovation Interested in Shaping the Future of Freight?

Gatik AI

Autonomous Vehicle Test Driver

Denison, TX

$27 - $31/hr

Work closely with engineering teams to test, evaluate, and refine our self-driving technology * Use ... Be part of cutting-edge autonomous vehicle innovation Interested in Shaping the Future of Freight?

ROUSH

Vehicle Test Engineer II

Wittmann, AZ · On-site

Job Summary The Vehicle Test Engineer II will support test procedure execution, for full vehicles, on test track or road surfaces, at the request of Program or Design Engineers, for attributes such ...

ROUSH

Vehicle Test Engineer II

Wittmann, AZ · On-site

Job Summary The Vehicle Test Engineer II will support test procedure execution, for full vehicles, on test track or road surfaces, at the request of Program or Design Engineers, for attributes such ...

WME Express

Autonomous Vehicle Operator

Austin, TX · On-site

Test car driver needed full time for Austin Texas Test drive new state of the art Autonomous cars ... vehicle test driving job for the safety minded tech savvy driver Earn $25 per hourwith great ...

WME Express

Autonomous Vehicle Operator

Austin, TX · On-site

$25/hr

Test car driver needed full time for Austin Texas Test drive new state of the art Autonomous cars ... vehicle test driving job for the safety minded tech savvy driver Earn $25 per hourwith great ...

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Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer information

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How much do autonomous vehicle test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for autonomous vehicle test engineer in the United States is $44.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.41 and $52.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, robotics, and computer science, often backed by a degree in electrical, mechanical, or software engineering. Familiarity with simulation tools, data logging systems, and industry-standard programming languages like Python or C++ is essential, along with certifications in safety protocols such as ISO 26262. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top candidates apart. These competencies ensure the safe, accurate, and efficient testing of autonomous systems in real-world and simulated environments.

What is the difference between Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer vs Autonomous Vehicle Software Developer?

AspectAutonomous Vehicle Test EngineerAutonomous Vehicle Software Developer
Primary RoleDesigning and executing tests to validate autonomous vehicle systemsDeveloping and coding software for autonomous vehicle functions
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of testing protocols, sensor systems, and safety standardsProficiency in programming languages, algorithms, and software engineering
Work EnvironmentTesting labs, vehicle testing sites, simulation environmentsSoftware development teams, coding environments, simulation platforms
Industry UsageUsed by automotive manufacturers and testing labs for validationUsed by software companies and automotive OEMs for system development

While both roles are integral to autonomous vehicle development, the Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer focuses on validating and testing vehicle systems, ensuring safety and performance. In contrast, the Autonomous Vehicle Software Developer concentrates on creating the software that powers autonomous functions. Both roles require technical expertise but differ in daily tasks and focus areas.

What does it mean when a person is autonomous?

In the context of an Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer, being autonomous refers to the vehicle's ability to operate independently without human intervention, using sensors, software, and algorithms to perceive the environment and make driving decisions. It involves understanding autonomous systems, programming, and testing these technologies to ensure safety and reliability.

What is autonomy in simple words?

In the context of an Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer, autonomy refers to a vehicle's ability to operate and make decisions without human input, using sensors, software, and algorithms. It involves systems that perceive the environment, process data, and execute driving tasks safely. Testing these systems requires understanding their level of autonomy and ensuring they function correctly in various conditions.

What are some typical challenges Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineers face when working with new software updates?

Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineers often face challenges when integrating and validating new software updates, as these updates can introduce unforeseen bugs or compatibility issues with existing vehicle hardware. Ensuring the safety and reliability of the system requires thorough testing in both simulated environments and real-world scenarios. Engineers must also collaborate closely with software developers and safety teams to quickly identify, document, and resolve any issues. Managing tight deadlines while maintaining rigorous testing standards is a common aspect of the role.

What does an Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer do?

An Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer is responsible for designing, executing, and analyzing tests on self-driving vehicles and their systems. They work with various sensors, software, and hardware to ensure that autonomous vehicles operate safely and efficiently under different conditions. Their duties include developing test plans, running simulations, collecting and interpreting data, and reporting results to improve vehicle performance. They also collaborate with software developers, safety engineers, and other specialists to troubleshoot issues and validate new features. This role is critical to advancing the reliability and safety of autonomous driving technologies.

What is another word for autonomous?

In the context of an Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer, another word for autonomous is self-driving or driverless. These terms describe vehicles capable of operating without human intervention, often requiring knowledge of sensors, AI, and control systems. Understanding these synonyms helps clarify the role's focus on developing and testing such technologies.

What is the meaning of autonomous?

In the context of an Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer, autonomous refers to vehicles capable of sensing their environment and operating without human intervention. These vehicles use sensors, software, and artificial intelligence to navigate and perform driving tasks safely. Understanding autonomy involves knowledge of automation levels, sensor systems, and control algorithms.
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Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer jobs near you

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

TSMG

San Francisco, CA

$21.50 - $26.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 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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