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Autonomous Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Rinvio

Autonomous Equipment Field Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

Rinvio is hiring a Autonomous Equipment Field Specialist for hands-on field support for robotic/autonomous construction equipment. This is a travel-heavy field role based near the Chicago, IL market.

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All JobsAutonomous JobsAutonomous Jobs in Illinois

Autonomous information

See Illinois salary details

$31K

$47.6K

$65.9K

How much do autonomous jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for autonomous in Illinois is $47,609.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,700.00 and $53,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an autonomous job?

Autonomous jobs refer to roles or tasks that are performed independently, often with minimal supervision or direction. In the context of technology, autonomous jobs usually involve the use of artificial intelligence or robotics to carry out work without constant human intervention. These positions might include operating or overseeing autonomous vehicles, managing automated systems, or developing technologies that support automation. The goal is to improve efficiency, safety, and productivity by reducing the need for manual oversight. Careers in this field can span across industries such as transportation, manufacturing, logistics, and IT.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an autonomous vehicle engineer?

To thrive as an Autonomous Vehicle Engineer, you need solid expertise in robotics, computer vision, machine learning, and a background in computer science or engineering. Familiarity with programming languages like Python and C++, as well as experience with ROS (Robot Operating System) and simulation tools, is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set standout professionals apart. These abilities are crucial for developing safe, reliable autonomous systems that perform well in complex, real-world environments.

How does an autonomous systems engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

Autonomous Systems Engineers work closely with software developers, hardware engineers, data scientists, and project managers to design, test, and deploy autonomous technologies. Collaboration often involves regular team meetings, sharing technical documentation, and joint problem-solving sessions to ensure seamless integration of system components. Engineers may also coordinate with testing teams to validate system performance and safety, making effective communication and teamwork essential skills in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Autonomous jobs in Illinois?

For Autonomous jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Autonomous jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Autonomous jobs in Illinois are:

Autonomous jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autonomous job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,609 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Autonomous Systems Validation Operator

KETT ENGINEERING CORPORATION

Chicago, IL

$24 - $27/hr

Full-time, Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Company Overview

Kett Engineering is a well-established company with over 60 years of experience, specializing in automotive testing and development. Our team supports leading automotive manufacturers and Tier-1 suppliers in managing comprehensive vehicle testing programs across various facilities worldwide.

Opportunity

Kett Engineering is working with a major EV manufacturer, and we are hiring multiple Autonomous Systems Validation Operators on 1st and 2nd shift in Chicago, IL. This is an extended data collection and validation project and excellent opportunity to engage with where autonomous vehicle technology is going.

Role Overview

The Autonomous Systems Validation Operator plays a critical role in the development, testing, and safety validation of advanced self-driving and autonomous vehicle technology. Operating at the intersection of hands-on vehicle testing and systems engineering, this role is responsible for driving, evaluating, and troubleshooting prototype vehicles equipped with cutting-edge autonomous software and hardware suites.

You will execute precise test procedures across public roads and private testing tracks, gather crucial data streams for engineering analysis, and provide detailed operational feedback to accelerate the deployment of safe autonomous driving features.

Key Responsibilities

  • Safely operate prototype test vehicles in autonomous, semi-autonomous, and manual modes across diverse traffic, road, and weather conditions for up to 8 hours daily.
  • Maintain constant vigilance and situational awareness; execute safety protocols and intervene or manual disengage seamless when necessary to ensure complete vehicle safety.
  • Perform pre-defined autonomous test cases, edge-case evaluations, and specialized driving scenarios on both public roads and closed-course test facilities.
  • Identify, isolate, and debug hardware, software, and sensor platform anomalies using system diagnostic tools.
  • Work directly with hardware and software engineering teams to communicate system behavior, reproduce edge cases, and escalate critical issues via online ticketing systems.
  • Manage onboard logging equipment, record system performance data, and verify data transfer for engineering analysis.
  • Perform and verify Over-The-Air software updates and system flashes across vehicle ECUs and autonomous control units.
  • Conduct vehicle pre-trip inspections, basic system checks, and sensor calibration/setup prior to test routes.
  • Compose clear, concise, and thorough post-drive reporting, operational logs, and safety feedback for cross-functional stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Must hold a valid Driver's License in the state of residence.
  • Clean driving record: No suspensions/revocations within the last 3-5 years.
  • No drug or alcohol-related driving incidents within the last 3 years.
  • No more than 1 serious moving violation within the last 3 years.
  • Willingness to undergo continuous Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) monitoring.
  • Minimum age of 21 years.
  • Prior professional automotive driving, vehicle fleet operations, or autonomous vehicle (AV) testing experience.
  • Ability to maintain focus while operating or monitoring autonomous vehicles independently or with a partner for 6-8 hours per day.
  • Ability to travel up to 50% for off-site field testing and trips.
  • Flexibility to work overtime, non-standard shifts, or weekends as needed.
  • Proficiency with laptops, smartphones, and collaboration software (Google Docs, Sheets, Maps).
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to concisely articulate technical events and system anomalies.
  • Sound judgment, strong organizational skills, and composure in high-stress or fast-paced testing environments.
  • Ability to lift and maneuver up to 50 lbs.

Bonus Skills

  • Hands-on experience with Jira or equivalent engineering ticketing platforms.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in troubleshooting, flashing, and debugging embedded automotive software and CAN/hardware networks.
  • Experience operating 16 ft+ commercial vehicles, medium-duty trucks, or large fleet platforms.
  • Valid Class A or Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL).

Apply