ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

eShocan

Vehicle Test Driver- Multiple locations

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

Operate autonomous vehicles on designated highway routes in shifts with a co-driver, assessing and ... Partner with engineers, developers, and researchers to provide insights and feedback, contributing ...

Transdev

Test Engineer L3

Atwater, CA

Test Engineer Lead shall manage and execute test programs, analyze and interpret results ... Autonomous Vehicles Job Type: Full Time Req ID: 6297 Pay Group: A3L Cost Center: 563 The above ...

Transdev

Test Engineer L3

Atwater, CA · On-site

Test Engineer Lead shall manage and execute test programs, analyze and interpret results ... Autonomous Vehicles Job Type: Full Time Req ID: 6297 Pay Group: A3L Cost Center: 563 The above ...

DCS Corp

Flight Test Engineer

Lexington Park, MD

$60K - $90K/yr

DCS has exciting opportunities for entry-level aerospace engineers to work in a dynamic Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation environment upon conferral of degree. Open positions for flight test engineers ...

DCS CORPORATION

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

DCS has exciting opportunities for entry-level aerospace engineers to work in a dynamic Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation environment upon conferral of degree. Open positions for flight test engineers ...

DCS Corporation

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD

$60K - $90K/yr

DCS has exciting opportunities for entry-level aerospace engineers to work in a dynamic Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation environment upon conferral of degree. Open positions for flight test engineers ...

DCS Corp

Flight Test Engineer

Lexington Park, MD

$60K - $90K/yr

DCS has exciting opportunities for entry-level aerospace engineers to work in a dynamic Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation environment upon conferral of degree. Open positions for flight test engineers ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAutonomous Vehicle Test Engineer Jobs

Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer information

See salary details

$17

$44

$74

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.
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:
Autonomous Vehicle Test Engineer jobs near you

Autonomous Vehicle Car Driver

JSAN Consulting Group

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Contractor

Medical

Posted 8 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate autonomous vehicles on structured or free-form routes with a focus on monitoring vehicle autonomy.

  • Capture software logs, provide real-time environmental feedback, and evaluate vehicle features during operation.

  • Deliver accurate ride reports to support engineering and operations teams.

Job description

Role: Autonomous Vehicle Car Driver

Duration: 12+ Months

Location: Pittsburgh, PA

Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator – Master AV Tech in Pittsburgh, PA($20/hr + Paid Washington D.C Training!)

Kickstart your AV adventure with a fully covered 1-month training trip to Washington D.C—travel, meals, and hotel included! Then return to Pittsburgh to operate next-gen self-driving vehicles, test systems on local roads, and deliver safe ride-hail rides in this exciting 12+ month contract.

Adventure-Packed Launch

Start strong with expense-paid Washington D.C immersion in AV operations, then hit Pittsburgh streets for hands-on testing across diverse routes and shifts (40 hrs/week: days, evenings, weekends, overnights). Gain elite skills in autonomous tech while enjoying health/vision insurance and ongoing paid training—ideal for drivers craving innovation.

Key Duties

  • Steer AVs on structured or free-form paths, focusing on autonomous monitoring with minimal manual drives.
  • Capture software logs, provide instant environmental insights, and evaluate vehicle features.
  • Deliver precise ride reports to support engineering and ops.
  • Ensure unwavering safety standards everywhere.

Your Qualifications

  • 21+ years old, valid driver's license, 3+ years professional driving.
  • Tech-fluent: Google Workspace (Gmail, Sheets, Docs), smartphones, touchscreens.
  • Quick-thinking observer with sharp, succinct communication.
  • Physically ready: Prolonged sitting/standing, 45-lb lifts, stairs, occasional reaching/balancing/stooping; full-range vision.
  • Flexible for rotational shifts.

Rewards Breakdown

  • Pay: $20/hour (40 hrs/week).
  • Benefits: Health insurance, paid training.
  • Bonus: All-expenses-paid 1-month Washington D.C training (travel, food, lodging).

Fast-Track Application

Confirm you're ready:

  • Willing to travel to Washington D.C for 1-month training?
  • Can pass drug, driving, and background checks?
  • Open to rotational shifts?