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Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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Autonomous Vehicle Operator Location: San Francisco, CA Pay: $24-$30 per hour Schedule: Full-Time ... engineering and operations teams Follow strict safety procedures and testing protocols What Makes ...

Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator

Austin, TX · On-site

$18 - $22.25/hr

Support test activities using engineering principles, analysis tools, and established practices to ... Genuine interest in the autonomy and emerging technology space.

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?

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?

Autonomous Vehicle Test Driver (CDL)

Katy, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

Autonomous Vehicle Test Driver (CDL) Katy, TX We are seeking an experienced and safety-conscious ... engineering teams to troubleshoot issues. Prior experience in the AV industry or similar tech ...

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 ...

Waltonen Engineering is looking for a Vehicle Test Engineer to join our team! Responsibilities: * Engineering analysis/support of military vehicles * Prepare plans with detailed drawings that include ...

Autonomous Vehicle Test Driver (CDL)

Sugar Land, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Autonomous Vehicle Test Driver (CDL) Sugar Land, TX We are seeking an experienced and safety ... engineering teams to troubleshoot issues. Prior experience in the AV industry or similar tech ...

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 ...

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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 7, 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 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.
More about Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer job openings:
What job categories do people searching Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,027 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

TSMG

Los Angeles, CA

$19.75 - $24.25/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday


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. 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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