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Full Time Prototype Vehicle Test Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vehicle Test Driver

Newark, CA · On-site

$23.25/hr

Newark, CA The Vehicle Test Driver is responsible for driving and evaluating new and prototype motor vehicles on pre-defined routes on primary and secondary roads in various weather conditions. In ...

Vehicle Test Driver

Newark, CA · On-site

$21 - $24.25/hr

Newark, CA The Vehicle Test Driver is responsible for driving and evaluating new and prototype motor vehicles on pre-defined routes on primary and secondary roads in various weather conditions. In ...

Newark, CA The Vehicle Test Driver is responsible for driving and evaluating new and prototype motor vehicles on pre-defined routes on primary and secondary roads in various weather conditions. In ...

Newark, CA The Vehicle Test Driver is responsible for driving and evaluating new and prototype motor vehicles on pre-defined routes on primary and secondary roads in various weather conditions. In ...

Vehicle Test Driver

Newark, CA · On-site

$21 - $24.25/hr

Newark, CA The Vehicle Test Driver is responsible for driving and evaluating new and prototype motor vehicles on pre-defined routes on primary and secondary roads in various weather conditions. In ...

Vehicle Test Driver

Newark, CA · On-site

$23.25/hr

Newark, CA The Vehicle Test Driver is responsible for driving and evaluating new and prototype motor vehicles on pre-defined routes on primary and secondary roads in various weather conditions. In ...

Vehicle Test Driver

Wittmann, AZ · On-site

$28.25 - $31.39/hr

... our prototype test vehicles, including those equipped with autonomous systems, and documenting ... Full-time employee coverage is effective on their first day of employment. Part-time employee ...

Vehicle Test Driver

Wittmann, AZ · On-site

$25.10 - $27.88/hr

... our prototype test vehicles, including those equipped with autonomous systems, and documenting ... Full-time employee coverage is effective on their first day of employment. Part-time employee ...

Vehicle Test Driver

Wittmann, AZ · On-site

$28.25 - $31.39/hr

... our prototype test vehicles, including those equipped with autonomous systems, and documenting ... Full-time employee coverage is effective on their first day of employment. Part-time employee ...

... our prototype test vehicles, including those equipped with autonomous systems, and documenting ... Full-time employee coverage is effective on their first day of employment. Part-time employee ...

Vehicle Test Driver

Phoenix, AZ

$16 - $19.75/hr

Phoenix, AZ Full Time, Mon - Fri: 8:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. (subject to change) Pay Range: $18-$19 MUST HAVE A VALID DRIVERS LICENSE AND BE ABLE TO PASS A DRUG TEST, BACKGROUND CHECK, & MOTOR VEHICLE ...

As a CVO Test Driver , you'll perform vehicle evaluations, complete test routes, inspect vehicles, and document your findings to help ensure quality and performance. Every day brings a different ...

Vehicle Test Driver

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Phoenix, AZ Full Time, Mon - Fri: 8:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. (subject to change) Pay Range: $18-$19 MUST HAVE A VALID DRIVERS LICENSE AND BE ABLE TO PASS A DRUG TEST, BACKGROUND CHECK, & MOTOR VEHICLE ...

Vehicle Test Driver

Elkton, MD · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

... test preparation and execution in an outdoor environment. * Must have a flexible schedule and be able to work extended hours and weekends. * Possess a valid driver's license and clean vehicle driving ...

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Full Time Prototype Vehicle Test Driver information

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How much do full time prototype vehicle test driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time prototype vehicle test driver in the United States is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a full time prototype vehicle test driver?

Full Time Prototype Vehicle Test Drivers are professionals who operate experimental or pre-production vehicles for automotive manufacturers. Their main role is to test and evaluate the performance, safety, and functionality of new vehicle models under various real-world conditions. They provide feedback to engineers and designers, helping to identify issues before vehicles go to market. This job often requires detailed record-keeping, strong communication skills, and adherence to strict confidentiality agreements regarding unreleased vehicle features.

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

To excel as a Full Time Prototype Vehicle Test Driver, you need a valid driver's license, advanced driving skills, and a strong understanding of vehicle dynamics and safety protocols. Familiarity with data logging equipment, vehicle diagnostic tools, and sometimes specialized certifications like a commercial driver’s license (CDL) are typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to follow precise instructions are standout soft skills for this position. These abilities are essential for accurately evaluating prototype vehicles, ensuring safety, and providing reliable feedback to engineering teams.

What are some common challenges faced by full time prototype vehicle test drivers and how can they be addressed?

Full Time Prototype Vehicle Test Drivers often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing test procedures, maintaining confidentiality about unreleased features, and working irregular hours to meet testing schedules. Staying organized and flexible is key, as test plans can shift based on engineering needs or unexpected vehicle behaviors. Regular communication with engineers and test coordinators helps address issues promptly and ensures accurate feedback for vehicle improvements. Additionally, adhering strictly to safety protocols is essential when dealing with unproven technologies.

What is the difference between Full Time Prototype Vehicle Test Driver vs Test Driver?

AspectFull Time Prototype Vehicle Test DriverTest Driver
CredentialsDriver's license, automotive knowledge, sometimes engineering backgroundDriver's license, basic driving skills
Work EnvironmentTesting facilities, prototype vehicles, controlled environmentsPublic roads, various driving conditions
Employer & IndustryAutomotive manufacturers, R&D departmentsAutomotive testing companies, manufacturers
Search & Comparison IntentFocus on prototype testing, specialized vehicle developmentGeneral vehicle testing, driving performance

Full Time Prototype Vehicle Test Drivers are specialized professionals working primarily with prototype vehicles in controlled environments, often requiring automotive knowledge and specific credentials. Test Drivers have a broader scope, including testing various vehicles on public roads. The main difference lies in the environment, vehicle type, and level of specialization involved.

What cities are hiring for Full Time Prototype Vehicle Test Driver jobs?

Cities with the most Full Time Prototype Vehicle Test Driver job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Prototype Vehicle Test Driver jobs?

The most popular types of Prototype Vehicle Test Driver jobs are:

What states have the most Full Time Prototype Vehicle Test Driver jobs?

States with the most job openings for Full Time Prototype Vehicle Test Driver jobs include:

Infographic showing various Full Time Prototype Vehicle Test Driver job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,807 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Sr. Prototype Technician, Prototype Build Vehicle Test & Integration

Lucid Motors

Coolidge, AZ

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Lucid Motors rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 45 rated automakers


Job description

The Test Technician supports automotive prototype vehicle development by assisting with test track operations, vehicle testing activities, and data analysis. This role works closely with engineers, drivers, and program teams to ensure prototype vehicles are tested safely, accurately, and efficiently while producing high-quality data to support engineering decisions. 

Role:

  • Test Track Support, Testing Support, Data Analytics Support 
  • Reports to the Manager of Engineering Operations 
  • This role is required to support the increased test load and increased test track expansion 
  • Key Performance Indicators will be generated for this role and consist of data reported along with project completion 
  • This position is a rare opportunity. This person will be exposed to various types of growth paths offering integration chances with test engineers, construction engineers, test drivers and multiple other groups. 

Responsibilities:

  • Test Track Support: Prepare prototype vehicles for daily test track activities, including pre-test inspections, charging readiness, instrumentation checks, and vehicle staging. 
  • Test Track Support: Monitor on-track activities and support safe test operations by identifying vehicle concerns, hazards, or deviations from approved test procedures 
  • Test Track Support: Coordinate vehicle movement, test asset setup, and track scheduling support to help engineering teams execute test plans efficiently 
  • Test Support: Document and report test observations, vehicle concerns, failures, and anomalies, then communicate findings to engineering teams for investigation and resolution. 
  • Test Support: Execute vehicle test procedures according to engineering requirements, including durability, performance, thermal, charging, ride and handling, and validation testing. 
  • Data Analytics Support: Collect, validate, and organize vehicle test data from data loggers, telemetry systems, diagnostic tools, and test reports to ensure data integrity and traceability. 
  • Data Analytics Support: Support testing databases and generating reports that support prototype development, root-cause investigations, and program readiness assessments. 

Qualifications:

  • Strong attention to detail, safety mindset, and ability to work in a fast-paced test environment. 
  • Ability to summarize technical issues clearly for engineering and operations teams. 
  • Clean MVR 
  • 5 years of Driving experience 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience working with prototype vehicles, automotive testing, vehicle diagnostics, or validation activities. 
  • Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Engineering Technology, or related field, or equivalent hands-on experience. 
  • Experience supporting EV, battery, charging, thermal, or vehicle validation programs. 
  • Familiarity with CAN tools, diagnostic software, telemetry systems, and Microsoft Excel. 
  • Proving Grounds/ Test driving experience 
  • Extended Time Driving: Ability to stay in the driver's seat for 2-4 hours at time 
  • Standing and Walking:  Ability to stand and walk for 8-12 hours per shift on hard surfaces in a production environment. 
  • Manual Dexterity: Frequent use of hands for handling tools, assembling components, and operating machinery. Requires fine motor skills and grip strength. 
  • Lifting and Carrying: Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull items weighing 10-50 lbs. regularly; occasional lifting up to 75 lbs. with assistance. 
  • Reaching and Bending: Routine reaching above shoulders, bending, and twisting waist, and squatting as part of process and tasks. 
  • Repetitive Motions: Continuous arm, hand, and wrist movements for tasks such as fastening, positioning, and installing. 
  • Climbing: Occasional use of steps to access different height level areas. 
  • PPE Expectations: Must wear required PPE (safety shoes, gloves, protective sleeves, eye and hearing protection) as per company safety standards. 
 
At Lucid, we don't just welcome diversity - we celebrate it! Lucid Motors is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and expression, marital status, and any other characteristic protected under applicable State or Federal laws and regulations.

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About Lucid Motors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Lucid Motors is a highly innovative electric vehicle manufacturer located in Newark, CA, USA. Primarily engaged in the automotive industry, its mission is to elevate electric vehicles' standing and transform the way people travel. The company was founded in 2007 by Bernard Tse and Sam Weng as Atieva, a name under which it initially focused on battery technology. However, it pivoted towards automotive manufacturing and rebranded as Lucid Motors in 2016. The company is committed to making luxury, sustainable electric vehicles that break norms and set new standards with top-notch technology and engineering. Their mission aligns with their core values, which are centered around innovation, sustainability, and excellence. Notably, Lucid Motors launched the Lucid Air in 2020, an all-electric sedan well-received for its advanced features and impressive mileage.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Newark, CA, US

Year founded

2007