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Autonomous Vehicle Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Autonomous Specialist

Atwater, CA · On-site

$26 - $31/hr

Operate a vehicle 6-8 hours a day, 5 days a week; * Provide rides in the autonomous vehicle to the general public. * Monitor multiple software systems with constant focus; * Provide concise, clear ...

Autonomous Specialist

Atwater, CA · On-site

$26 - $31/hr

Operate a vehicle 6-8 hours a day, 5 days a week; * Provide rides in the autonomous vehicle to the general public. * Monitor multiple software systems with constant focus; * Provide concise, clear ...

Comply with Transdev's Autonomous Vehicle Division zero-tolerance policy regarding the use of alcohol or drugs during a shift, including randomized drug testing; and * All other duties as assigned ...

Vehicle Test Assistant

Atwater, CA · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Comply with Transdev's Autonomous Vehicle Division zero-tolerance policy regarding the use of alcohol or drugs during a shift, including randomized drug testing; and * All other duties as assigned ...

Leverage your knowledge of autonomous vehicle systems, robotics, and software to quickly analyze telemetry data, identify potential root causes, and implement preliminary diagnostic procedures. • ...

Establish periodic 1-1 meetings with the engineering team; mentor, and manage top-notch engineers to meet the needs of large-scale autonomous vehicle deployment * Performance Management- Monitoring ...

Establish periodic 1-1 meetings with the engineering team; mentor, and manage top-notch engineers to meet the needs of large-scale autonomous vehicle deployment * Performance Management- Monitoring ...

Test Conductor [L1]

Atwater, CA · On-site

$35 - $41/hr

Must be able to safely maneuver around autonomous vehicles; * Must be able to multitask multiple technologies, including communication devices and vehicle status systems; * Must be able to work ...

Test Conductor [L1]

Atwater, CA · On-site

$35 - $41/hr

Must be able to safely maneuver around autonomous vehicles; * Must be able to multitask multiple technologies, including communication devices and vehicle status systems; * Must be able to work ...

Autonomy: You manage your own routing, schedule, and territory. * Efficiency: Standard inspections ... Reliable, fuel-efficient vehicle. * Smartphone (Android or iPhone) capable of running mobile ...

Able to safely maneuver around autonomous-capable vehicles * Flexibility with work hours during busy test periods (including weekend and AM or PM shifts * Demonstrate concise and effective ...

Test Engineer L1

Atwater, CA · On-site

$104K - $116K/yr

Able to safely maneuver around autonomous-capable vehicles * Flexibility with work hours during busy test periods (including weekend and AM or PM shifts * Demonstrate concise and effective ...

L1 - Test Engineer

Atwater, CA · On-site

$104K - $116K/yr

Able to safely maneuver around autonomous-capable vehicles * Flexibility with work hours during busy test periods (including weekend and AM or PM shifts * Demonstrate concise and effective ...

L1 - Test Engineer

Atwater, CA · On-site

$104K - $116K/yr

Able to safely maneuver around autonomous-capable vehicles * Flexibility with work hours during busy test periods (including weekend and AM or PM shifts * Demonstrate concise and effective ...

Dentist - DDS/DMD

Merced, CA · On-site

$182K - $260K/yr

Option for free transport to facilities in a specialized company vehicle * Comprehensive benefits ... Clinical autonomy and control over the pace of your day. Company: Lumina HealthCare manages on-site ...

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Autonomous Vehicle information

See Merced, CA salary details

$14

$25

$33

How much do autonomous vehicle jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for autonomous vehicle in Merced, CA is $25.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $27.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Autonomous Vehicle vs Autonomous Vehicle Technician?

AspectAutonomous VehicleAutonomous Vehicle Technician
Required CredentialsEngineering degrees, certifications in AI, robotics, or automotive systemsTechnical certifications, hands-on training in vehicle systems and diagnostics
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, automotive companies, testing facilitiesVehicle service centers, manufacturing plants, testing sites
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturers, tech companies, research institutionsAutomotive service providers, dealerships, testing agencies

Autonomous Vehicles are advanced systems that operate without human input, requiring expertise in AI and robotics. Autonomous Vehicle Technicians focus on maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing these vehicles, often working directly with the hardware and software components. While both roles are integral to autonomous vehicle development and deployment, they differ in their focus—one on system design and development, the other on hands-on technical support.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in autonomous vehicle development teams?

Professionals in autonomous vehicle development often encounter challenges such as integrating complex sensor data, ensuring reliable software performance in unpredictable environments, and adhering to strict safety standards. Collaboration is essential, as teams are typically multidisciplinary, involving software engineers, robotics experts, and data scientists working closely together. Additionally, staying updated with evolving regulations and rapidly changing technology demands a commitment to continuous learning and adaptability.

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

To thrive as an Autonomous Vehicle Engineer, you need a strong background in robotics, computer vision, sensor integration, and software development, usually supported by a degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with tools and systems like ROS (Robot Operating System), machine learning frameworks (such as TensorFlow or PyTorch), and automotive simulation platforms is essential, and certifications in safety standards like ISO 26262 are often valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating on complex projects and ensuring safety. Mastery of these skills ensures the reliable development, testing, and deployment of autonomous vehicle systems in a rapidly evolving industry.

What are autonomous vehicles?

Autonomous vehicles, also known as self-driving cars or driverless vehicles, are vehicles equipped with technology that allows them to navigate and operate without direct human input. These vehicles use a combination of sensors, cameras, radar, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to perceive their surroundings and make driving decisions. The goal is to increase safety, reduce human error, and create more efficient transportation systems. Autonomous vehicles range from those with partial automation (such as advanced driver assistance systems) to fully autonomous models that do not require a human driver at all.

What Are Autonomous Vehicle Jobs?

Autonomous vehicle jobs include a variety of positions based on mechanical engineering and software integration for self-driving vehicles. Someone in this field may help build an assembly line, use robot systems to minimize the risk of human error in production, or help program the operations of a self-driving car. This frequently involves monitoring, engineering, or managing a control system within a vehicle as well as each sensor placed within the vehicle. Companies are continually testing new ideas and techniques to check them for viability—as such, autonomous vehicle jobs require flexibility and the ability to adapt to new technology.

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Autonomous Vehicle jobs? Cities near Merced, CA with the most Autonomous Vehicle job openings:
Infographic showing various Autonomous Vehicle job openings in Merced, CA as of July 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 $52,510 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Level 5 Vehicle Operator

Continuum Resource Network

Atwater, CA • On-site

$22 - $27.50/hr

Contractor

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Location: Atwater, CA, United States
Work environment: In-person
Expected pay: 34.00 USD Per Hour
Schedule: Full-time (usually 30+ hours/week)
Assignment length: Contract
We are helping an on-demand, autonomous ride-hailing company hire a Level 5 Vehicle Operator to test and validate the hardware and software deployed on the company's autonomous vehicle, which will go into production in the very near future.
In this role, you'll operate the L5 vehicle, supporting vehicle readiness, completing software and hardware tests, and, when needed, representing the company as an ambassador to the public-all while upholding the highest safety standards.
You'll also assist and interact with multiple teams across the company, including computer vision, infrastructure, sound design, strategy, vehicle engineering, and ride operations. Working at the company will give you the opportunity to learn the Level 5 autonomous platform and how the system works as a whole. You will have a front-row seat to the operational complexities of realizing autonomous mobility while being a key component of contributing to the future of the company and the industry as a whole.
We're looking for operators who are disciplined, are team players, and believe in doing whatever it takes to accomplish the mission. They should be motivated and driven individuals with excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
You'll be responsible for software deployment, vehicle preparation, test execution, and troubleshooting issues before, during, and after testing. Operations will include data acquisition and annotation, ensuring test equipment readiness, and setting up the tests as directed by the test coordinator.
As a Level 5 Vehicle Operator, you will:
  • Operate and complete test missions on the L5 autonomous vehicle platform.
  • Maintain a high level of safety awareness at all times, providing input to improve processes.
  • Support the software team in the execution of key software operation tasks.
  • Support missions through a wide variety of roles, in and out of vehicles.
  • Assist with documentation and metrics capture.
  • Provide accurate written and oral feedback to engineering teams.
  • Support the Mission Readiness team with basic vehicle preventative maintenance checks, services, and repairs.
  • Provide logistical support for the movement and storage of vehicles and equipment.
  • Monitor devices during testing and troubleshoot issues.
  • Follow documented procedures and escalate to the test coordinator when issues arise.
  • Drive 4-8 hours a day with a priority for safety.

Requirements
  • Experience working with and troubleshooting complex technical systems.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills and attention to detail.
  • Excellent driving history and no criminal history.
  • Must have a driver's license and means of transportation to and from test sites.
  • Proactive mindset and resourcefulness.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Must be able to maintain composure and handle frequent changes or unexpected disruptions.
  • Proven track record of working with little supervision, solving problems, and meeting deadlines.

Benefits
  • Pre-tax commuter benefits
  • Employer-subsidized healthcare benefits
  • Flexible Spending Account for healthcare costs
  • All costs covered for short- and long-term disability and life insurance
  • 401k package