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Freelance Vehicle Test Driver Jobs in Riverside, CA

Frontier

Vehicle Maintenance Technician

Pomona, CA · On-site

$25.09 - $48.58/hr

Basic Qualifications: • Tests - Results obtained in standard tests for this position must meet ... Driver's License, with any special certification needed (i.e., Special Construction Equipment ...

Frontier

Vehicle Maintenance Technician

Pomona, CA · On-site

$25.09 - $48.58/hr

Tests - Results obtained in standard tests for this position must meet minimum requirements ... May be required to attain a valid unrestricted California Commercial Driver's License, with any ...

Empire Nissan

Sales Professional

Ontario, CA · On-site

Conducts vehicle test drives and ensures all speed limits all other rules of the road are followed ... Must have a valid California Driver's license with a clean record. * Must be able to develop ...

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All JobsVehicle Test Driver JobsFreelance Vehicle Test Driver JobsFreelance Vehicle Test Driver Jobs in Riverside, CA

Freelance Vehicle Test Driver information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$10

$19

$32

How much do freelance vehicle test driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance vehicle test driver in Riverside, CA is $19.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $20.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Freelance Vehicle Test Driver vs Vehicle Development Engineer?

AspectFreelance Vehicle Test DriverVehicle Development Engineer
CredentialsValid driver's license, driving experienceEngineering degree, technical expertise
Work EnvironmentOn-road testing, track, or test facilitiesDesign labs, R&D centers, testing facilities
Employer & IndustryAutomotive manufacturers, testing companiesAutomotive OEMs, suppliers, R&D firms
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding testing roles, freelance opportunitiesEngineering roles, vehicle development processes

The main difference is that Freelance Vehicle Test Drivers focus on executing test drives and providing feedback without extensive technical design responsibilities, while Vehicle Development Engineers are involved in designing, developing, and testing vehicle systems. Freelance drivers typically work independently or with testing companies, whereas engineers are employed by manufacturers or R&D organizations.

What are some typical challenges faced by freelance vehicle test drivers, and how can they prepare for them?

Freelance vehicle test drivers often encounter challenges such as adapting to new vehicle technologies quickly, working in varying weather conditions, and maintaining consistent communication with engineering teams. Since assignments may vary, flexibility and strong observational skills are essential. Preparing by staying updated on automotive trends, honing technical driving skills, and being proactive with safety protocols can help drivers overcome these challenges and deliver valuable feedback to manufacturers.

What is a freelance vehicle test driver?

A Freelance Vehicle Test Driver is a professional who is contracted on a temporary or project basis to test drive vehicles for manufacturers, automotive companies, or research organizations. Their main responsibility is to evaluate a vehicle’s performance, safety, and handling in various conditions, and report on their findings. They may test new models, prototypes, or vehicles undergoing quality assurance. The role often requires a clean driving record, attention to detail, and sometimes specialized licenses. Unlike full-time test drivers, freelancers work per assignment and may collaborate with multiple clients.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance vehicle test driver?

To thrive as a Freelance Vehicle Test Driver, you need a valid driver's license, strong driving skills, and a good understanding of vehicle mechanics and safety protocols. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, data logging systems, and sometimes specialized certifications (such as advanced driving courses) are typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and clear communication are crucial soft skills for accurately reporting results and collaborating with engineering teams. These skills ensure accurate testing, maintain safety standards, and support the development of reliable vehicles.
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Vehicle Test Driver jobs in Riverside, CA? For Freelance Vehicle Test Driver jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Vehicle Test Driver jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Vehicle Test Driver jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Freelance Vehicle Test Driver jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Freelance Vehicle Test Driver job openings:
Freelance Vehicle Test Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Vehicle Test Driver job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,529 per year, or $20 per hour.

ADAS Vehicle Operator - RI Irvine

Kett Engineering Corporation

Irvine, CA • On-site

$26/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Job description:
Company Overview
Kett Engineering is a well-established company with over 60 years of experience in the automotive test industry. We specialize in providing comprehensive support for vehicle testing, development, and staffing solutions to leading automotive manufacturers and Tier-1 suppliers.
Summary
We are seeking skilled Drivers to join our team at Kett Engineering on the 1st Shift. In this role, you will be responsible for driving Electric (EVs) prototype Vehicles and testing equipment/technology over the road out of Irvine, CA. It is expected that you will be driving over the road for 50% - 75% of the time. (Estimate is 3 weeks on the road and 1 week locally).
Your contributions will be vital in supporting our client's durability test programs!
Shift: 1st Shift - 8:00am to 4:30pm
Pay rate will be determined by qualified experience.
Responsibilities
  • 50% - 75% of the position will be over the road.
  • Travel across the nation for testing needs.
  • Drive over the road in pre-production/prototype vehicles up to 8 hours a day
  • Perform vehicle prep work, including basic vehicle inspections and diagnostics before and after driving.
  • Maintain professional driving habits at ALL times.
  • Track and deliver data stored on the vehicle back to tracking team.
  • Report daily finds after every day of vehicle testing.
  • Comfortable with operating ADAS systems.
  • Be able to navigate through EV screens.
  • Be able to navigate computers and transfer data.
  • Troubleshoot hardware and software issues
  • Complete clear, concise, and detailed post drive reports and online tickets, working with and escalating to engineers as necessary
  • Be able to handle any on the road emergencies (Ex. calling tow truck, maintain vehicles for local weather environments, if in snow applying chains to tires, etc.)
  • Make sure vehicles are well taken care of and charged properly.
  • Know how to operate maps physically and electronically.
  • Follow instructions from engineers vigorously.

Requirements
  • Valid driver's license required.
  • No points/accidents or any other infractions on DL for the last 3 years.
  • Proven experience in Vehicle/autonomous Testing or nationwide mapping. (Waymo/Cruise or other mapping positions that require driving like Google Maps or Apple Maps are ideal candidates for this position)
  • Attention to detail and able to describe events quickly and concisely
  • Good command of the English language with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Computer skills is a must, being able to navigate and transfer data.
  • Proficiency in using a smartphone, laptop and Microsoft Office Suite
  • Familiarity with ADAS and/or EVs is ideal for this position.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with team members.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Must be able to pass an MVR (Motor Vehicle Record) background check and onsite road test examination

If you are ready to drive your career forward with Kett Engineering, apply now to become an integral part of our dedicated team!
Qualifications
  • Prior professional automotive driving or autonomous vehicle experience
  • Self-motivated, organized, and demonstrate good judgment in a fast-paced, high-stress environment
  • Attention to detail and ability to describe events quickly and concisely
  • Good command of the English language with excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Proficiency in using a smartphone, laptop, and Microsoft Office Suite
  • Ability to drive safely in all conditions and alone or with a partner for 6-8 hrs. a day
  • Must be flexible to work overtime as needed
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Must be able to pass an MVR (Motor Vehicle Record) background check and onsite road test examination

Apply