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Contract Autonomous Vehicle Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Contract Autonomous Vehicle information

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How much do contract autonomous vehicle jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract autonomous vehicle in the United States is $23.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract autonomous vehicle?

A Contract Autonomous Vehicle professional is an expert who works on a temporary or project-based basis in the autonomous vehicle industry. Their responsibilities can include developing, testing, and deploying self-driving technologies, often for automotive, tech, or transportation companies. These professionals may work as engineers, software developers, safety drivers, or project managers, contributing specialized skills to advance autonomous vehicle projects. Contract roles allow companies to access top talent for specific needs without long-term commitments. This flexibility is particularly valuable in the rapidly evolving field of autonomous vehicles.

What are some common challenges faced by contract autonomous vehicle engineers when joining new projects?

Contract autonomous vehicle engineers often encounter challenges adapting to different teams’ workflows and proprietary systems, as each company may use unique simulation platforms, coding standards, and testing protocols. Rapid onboarding and learning new toolchains are crucial, as project timelines tend to be tight. Additionally, effective communication is key, since contractors frequently collaborate with cross-functional teams including software, hardware, and safety engineers. Flexibility and a proactive approach to problem-solving help contractors thrive in these dynamic environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract autonomous vehicle operator?

To thrive as a Contract Autonomous Vehicle Operator, you need a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record, and strong attention to safety and detail, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with autonomous vehicle technology, data logging systems, and GPS navigation tools is typically required, along with any relevant safety certifications. Excellent communication, problem-solving skills, and adaptability help operators respond effectively to unexpected situations and collaborate with engineering teams. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safe testing and operation of autonomous vehicles and for accurately capturing data needed to improve the technology.

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

AspectContract Autonomous VehicleContract Autonomous Vehicle Technician
CredentialsRelevant certifications in autonomous systems, software, or vehicle operationTechnical certifications in vehicle maintenance, electronics, or autonomous systems
Work EnvironmentField testing, software development, data analysis in autonomous vehicle projectsOn-site vehicle maintenance, diagnostics, and system troubleshooting
Employer & IndustryAutonomous vehicle manufacturers, tech companies, transportation servicesAutomotive repair shops, autonomous vehicle service providers

The main difference is that Contract Autonomous Vehicles focus on the operation, testing, and deployment of autonomous vehicles, often involving software and system integration. In contrast, Contract Autonomous Vehicle Technicians specialize in maintaining and repairing autonomous vehicles, ensuring their systems function correctly. Both roles require technical skills but serve different stages of autonomous vehicle deployment.

More about Contract Autonomous Vehicle jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Autonomous Vehicle jobs? Cities with the most Contract Autonomous Vehicle job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Autonomous Vehicle jobs? The most popular types of Autonomous Vehicle jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Autonomous Vehicle jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Autonomous Vehicle jobs include:
Infographic showing various Contract Autonomous Vehicle job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 39% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,725 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

SECOND SHIFT: Contract Autonomous Vehicle Safety Driver

Volkswagen Group

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

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SECOND SHIFT: Contract Autonomous Vehicle Safety Driver SECOND SHIFT: Contract Autonomous Vehicle Safety Driver

Job ID: 28440 Company: MOIA America, LLC Location: Los Angeles, CA, US, 90038 Department: Autonomous Driving Career Level: Professionals Working Model: Full-time Contract Type: Unlimited Remote Working: Mobile Work not possible Posting Date: Jul 10, 2026

SECOND SHIFT: Contract Autonomous Vehicle Safety Driver

As MOIA America, we develop and realize fully autonomous mobility and transportation services. Our mission is to make mobility-and transportation-as-a-service safe, accessible and most attractive for society. For that, we cover the entire ground from strategy and business development, software development and end-2-end integration, fleet operations to next-generation self-driving systems. Being the driver in Volkswagen Group initiative for mobility solutions, we're an integral part of Volkswagen Group's future success. Brief Role Description SECOND SHIFT: Autonomous Vehicle Safety Driver - Local candidates only ! MUST HAVE A VALID US PASSPORT and COMPLETELY CLEAN DMV REPORT. You must submit a current DMV report with your application and you can obtain that here for the State of CA: Request vehicle record | CA.gov An AVSD (Autonomous Vehicle Safety Driver) is responsible for operating autonomous vehicles on public roads in Self-Driving mode and in manual mode to enable the continuation of testing, monitoring, and development of the AVS (autonomous vehicle system) and to give feedback to the software development teams on disengagements of the system and the connected situation via voice recording while driving. The AVSD has the task and responsibility to continuously monitor the traffic, road and environmental & system status to be able to promptly evaluate the situation and react and to disengage the self-driving system to bring the vehicle in a safe mode and drive it manually. The role is highly safety relevant as the AVSD is responsible for the safe operation of a Self-Driving vehicle. Prior to operating an AV, all safety drivers will undergo a rigorous training program which teaches them about the specific components within the vehicle itself, the underlying technology, and safe driving techniques which are exercised on public roads daily. After successfully completing training, AVSDs will have the skills required to begin operating on public roads. As the Safety Driver you will be responsible for the safe and compliant operation of the AVS on both a manual and autonomous basis. This role collaborates with both Fleet Operations Managers, as well as Test Engineers, to continuously improve autonomous driving performance based on your feedback. Role Responsibilities In Vehicle Driving - 80% of time Safely operate an AV (Autonomous Vehicle) through diverse traffic conditions for an extended period of time. This includes the operation in Self-Driving mode and in manual mode - this is a role where you will spend a majority of your time in the car. While in the car, you will perform a range of tests of our technology, including specific software, hardware, interfaces, and instrumentation Ability to continuously evaluate the traffic/road/system situation and react to disengage the self-driving system to bring the vehicle in a safe mode and drive it manually. The role is highly safety relevant as the AVSD is responsible for the safe operation of a Self-Driving vehicle Ability to monitor vehicle movements and provide detailed feedback daily Proactively monitor the software performance from a proprietary Graphical User Interface (GUI) tablet integrated with the AVS (Autonomous Vehicle System) Record disengagement and connected situation via voice recording Monitors testing equipment, devices and software to ensure these meet all aspects of testing and reporting requirements. Perform pre/post-mission tasks such as startup procedures and vehicle inspections Daily cleaning of vehicles and maintaining a clean, neat and orderly vehicle Identifies and addresses potential safety risks and abides by, promotes and acknowledges all safety practices aimed at maintaining high safety standards. Training and Continued Education - 10% of time Undergo a detailed training program that educates and establishes expectations for manual driving fundamentals in autonomous vehicle operation Participate in continuing education opportunities as VW Group of America's autonomous driving processes and practices evolve to account for continuing technological changes and development Software Feedback - 10% of time Brief and de-brief of driving behavior to the Autonomous Vehicle and related testing responsibilities. Deliver clear and concise communications when evaluating AVS performance, documenting both its strengths and areas for improvement, all of which enables VW Group of America's engineers and developers to continuously improve the autonomous driving software Deliver clear and concise communications when evaluating AVS performance, documenting both its strengths and areas for improvement, all of which enables VW Group of America's engineers and developers to continuously improve the autonomous driving software Qualification requirements Years of Relevant Experience: 3-5 years of experience operating a vehicle with a clean driving record (Zero accidents, tickets, points) 2 years of stable employment experience Autonomous Vehicle experience preferred Professional driving experience preferred Education - Required: High School Diploma or GED equivalent REQUIRED Education - Desired: Associate or Bachelor's Degree preferred Skills: Must have a valid driver's license and the ability to meet Volkswagen Group of America's safety driving standards, including a specific prototype permit for operations (this will be obtained upon hire) Ability to pass a motor vehicle and criminal record background checks and drug screens in accordance with applicable law. This position may be subject to additional screenings conducted by third-party partners. Attention to detail and sound judgment necessary to handle public road testing Work in a professional and courteous manner always Flexible mindset to test new workflows and logistics pertaining to commercial pilot operations Strong interest in technology and software and the ability to adapt to its ever-changing developments and improvements Specialized Skills - Required: Detail-oriented mindset with a focus on safety, honesty, and a strict adherence to Ability to monitor vehicle behavior in a moving vehicle and annotate in a clear and concise manner Ability to anticipate critical traffic, system and road situation to be able to disengage the self-driving system and safely operate the vehicle manually Self-motivation for independent troubleshooting work in vehicle Specialized Skills - Desired: Desire to be a part of a fast paced, dynamic environment where adaptability and flexibility are essential Desire to learn more about autonomous vehicle technology and run specific tests Basic technical knowledge of complete vehicle components and functions Work Flexibility: Physically able to drive a vehicle for an extended period Ready and able to travel (international and domestic) to remote offices, training facilities or other testing cities if the opportunity arises Ability to adhere to a flexible work schedule which could include multiple shifts. Currently hiring for SECOND SHIFT (approx. 3pm - 10:30 pm) #LI-CK1 MOIA America is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds, and do not discriminate based on race, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, color, gender identity/expression, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable laws. As MOIA America, we develop and realize fully autonomous mobility and transportation services. Our mission is to make mobility-and transportation-as-a-service safe, accessible and most attractive for society. For that, we cover the entire ground from strategy and business development, software development and end-2-end integration, fleet operations to next-generation self-driving systems. Being the driver in Volkswagen Group initiative for mobility solutions, we're an integral part of Volkswagen Group's future success. Brief Role Description SECOND SHIFT: Autonomous Vehicle Safety Driver - Local candidates only ! MUST HAVE A VALID US PASSPORT and COMPLETELY CLEAN DMV REPORT. You must submit a current DMV report with your application and you can obtain that here for the State of CA: Request vehicle record | CA.gov An AVSD (Autonomous Vehicle Safety Driver) is responsible for operating autonomous vehicles on public roads in Self-Driving mode and in manual mode to enable the continuation of testing, monitoring, and development of the AVS (autonomous vehicle system) and to give feedback to the software development teams on disengagements of the system and the connected situation via voice recording while driving. The AVSD has the task and responsibility to continuously monitor the traffic, road and environmental & system status to be able to promptly evaluate the situation and react and to disengage the self-driving system to bring the vehicle in a safe mode and drive it manually. The role is highly safety relevant as the AVSD is responsible for the safe operation of a Self-Driving vehicle. Prior to operating an AV, all safety drivers will undergo a rigorous training program which teaches them about the specific components within the vehicle itself, the underlying technology, and safe driving techniques which are exercised on public roads daily. After successfully completing training, AVSDs will have the skills required to begin operating on public roads. As the Safety Driver you will be responsible for the safe and compliant operation of the AVS on both a manual and autonomous basis. This role collaborates with both Fleet Operations Managers, as well as Test Engineers, to continuously improve autonomous driving performance based on your feedback. Role Responsibilities In Vehicle Driving - 80% of time Safely operate an AV (Autonomous Vehicle) through diverse traffic conditions for an extended period of time. This includes the operation in Self-Driving mode and in manual mode - this is a role where you will spend a majority of your time in the car. While in the car, you will perform a range of tests of our technology, including specific software, hardware, interfaces, and instrumentation Ability to continuously evaluate the traffic/road/system situation and react to disengage the self-driving system to bring the vehicle in a safe mode and drive it manually. The role is highly safety relevant as the AVSD is responsible for the safe operation of a Self-Driving vehicle Ability to monitor vehicle movements and provide detailed feedback daily Proactively monitor the software performance from a proprietary Graphical User Interface (GUI) tablet integrated with the AVS (Autonomous Vehicle System) Record disengagement and connected situation via voice recording Monitors testing equipment, devices and software to ensure these meet all aspects of testing and reporting requirements. Perform pre/post-mission tasks such as startup procedures and vehicle inspections Daily cleaning of vehicles and maintaining a clean, neat and orderly vehicle Identifies and addresses potential safety risks and abides by, promotes and acknowledges all safety practices aimed at maintaining high safety standards. Training and Continued Education - 10% of time Undergo a detailed training program that educates and establishes expectations for manual driving fundamentals in autonomous vehicle operation Participate in continuing education opportunities as VW Group of America's autonomous driving processes and practices evolve to account for continuing technological changes and development Software Feedback - 10% of time Brief and de-brief of driving behavior to the Autonomous Vehicle and related testing responsibilities. Deliver clear and concise communications when evaluating AVS performance, documenting both its strengths and areas for improvement, all of which enables VW Group of America's engineers and developers to continuously improve the autonomous driving software Deliver clear and concise communications when evaluating AVS performance, documenting both its strengths and areas for improvement, all of which enables VW Group of America's engineers and developers to continuously improve the autonomous driving software Qualification requirements Years of Relevant Experience: 3-5 years of experience operating a vehicle with a clean driving record (Zero accidents, tickets, points) 2 years of stable employment experience Autonomous Vehicle experience preferred Professional driving experience preferred Education - Required: High School Diploma or GED equivalent REQUIRED Education - Desired: Associate or Bachelor's Degree preferred Skills: Must have a valid driver's license and the ability to meet Volkswagen Group of America's safety driving standards, including a specific prototype permit for operations (this will be obtained upon hire) Ability to pass a motor vehicle and criminal record background checks and drug screens in accordance with applicable law. This position may be subject to additional screenings conducted by third-party partners. Attention to detail and sound judgment necessary to handle public road testing Work in a professional and courteous manner always Flexible mindset to test new workflows and logistics pertaining to commercial pilot operations Strong interest in technology and software and the ability to adapt to its ever-changing developments and improvements Specialized Skills - Required: Detail-oriented mindset with a focus on safety, honesty, and a strict adherence to Ability to monitor vehicle behavior in a moving vehicle and annotate in a clear and concise manner Ability to anticipate critical traffic, system and road situation to be able to disengage the self-driving system and safely operate the vehicle manually Self-motivation for independent troubleshooting work in vehicle Specialized Skills - Desired: Desire to be a part of a fast paced, dynamic environment where adaptability and flexibility are essential Desire to learn more about autonomous vehicle technology and run specific tests Basic technical knowledge of complete vehicle components and functions Work Flexibility: Physically able to drive a vehicle for an extended period Ready and able to travel (international and domestic) to remote offices, training facilities or other testing cities if the opportunity arises Ability to adhere to a flexible work schedule which could include multiple shifts. Currently hiring for SECOND SHIFT (approx. 3pm - 10:30 pm) #LI-CK1 MOIA America is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds, and do not discriminate