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Independent Contractor Autonomous Vehicle Testing Jobs in Indiana

TSMG

Autonomous Vehicle Operations Lead

Warsaw, IN · On-site

Ensure vehicles are operationally ready to support testing, commercial deployment, and autonomous ride-hailing services . * Monitor fleet utilization , vehicle availability, charging schedules, and ...

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Independent Contractor Autonomous Vehicle Testing information

What is an independent contractor autonomous vehicle tester?

Independent Contractor Autonomous Vehicle Testers are professionals hired on a contract basis to evaluate and monitor the performance of self-driving vehicles. They are responsible for operating autonomous vehicles in real-world environments, observing system behavior, and reporting any issues or irregularities. These contractors play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and reliability of autonomous driving technology before it is deployed to the public. Often, they need to have a clean driving record, technical aptitude, and the ability to follow detailed protocols. Their feedback helps manufacturers improve autonomous vehicle systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent contractor in autonomous vehicle testing?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor in Autonomous Vehicle Testing, you need a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, strong observational skills, and ideally some technical or engineering background. Familiarity with vehicle diagnostic tools, data logging systems, and proprietary AV testing software is typically required, along with any specific safety certifications mandated by employers. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for accurately reporting issues and collaborating with engineering teams. These competencies ensure safe, reliable data collection and contribute to the successful development and deployment of autonomous vehicle technologies.

What are some common challenges faced by independent contractors in autonomous vehicle testing, and how can they be managed?

Independent contractors in autonomous vehicle testing often face challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing technology, adhering to strict safety protocols, and managing variable schedules. Staying up-to-date with the latest software updates and testing procedures is essential, as is maintaining clear communication with engineering teams and project managers. Contractors can manage these challenges by participating in ongoing training, familiarizing themselves with company-specific tools, and practicing meticulous documentation to ensure accurate feedback. Building strong professional relationships within the team also helps foster a collaborative environment and smooth workflow.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Autonomous Vehicle Testing vs Autonomous Vehicle Software Engineer?

AspectIndependent Contractor Autonomous Vehicle TestingAutonomous Vehicle Software Engineer
CredentialsRelevant certifications, driving licenses, safety trainingComputer science, software engineering degrees, coding skills
Work EnvironmentOn-road testing, fieldwork, testing sitesOffice, lab, or remote software development
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by testing companies, automakers, startups for real-world testingEmployed by tech firms, automakers for software development

While both roles involve autonomous vehicle technology, Independent Contractor Autonomous Vehicle Testing focuses on real-world testing and data collection, often on a contractual basis. Autonomous Vehicle Software Engineers develop and maintain the software systems that enable autonomous driving. The roles differ in credentials, work environment, and industry application, but both are essential in advancing autonomous vehicle technology.

What are the most commonly searched types of Autonomous Vehicle Testing jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Autonomous Vehicle Testing jobs in Indiana are:

What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Autonomous Vehicle Testing jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Autonomous Vehicle Testing jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Independent Contractor Autonomous Vehicle Testing jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Independent Contractor Autonomous Vehicle Testing job openings:

Independent Contractor Autonomous Vehicle Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Autonomous Vehicle Testing job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 39% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Autonomous Vehicle Operations Lead

Warsaw, IN • On-site

TSMG
See more jobs at TSMGexternal

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Oversee the daily operations of autonomous vehicle and robotaxi fleets, ensuring vehicles are operationally ready and efficiently dispatched.

  • Coordinate depot activities and manage teams including Safety Operators, Depot Specialists, Senior Technicians, and SDS Specialists to maintain safety, cleanliness, and operational standards.

  • Monitor fleet KPIs, identify process improvements, and develop standard operating procedures to optimize fleet performance and support scaling efforts.

Job description

About the Role

We are looking for an Autonomous Vehicle Operations Lead (AVOS) to oversee the daily operations of autonomous vehicle (AV) and robotaxi fleets supporting testing programs, commercial autonomous ride-hailing services, and new city launches across Europe.

As the operational leader within the depot, you will coordinate Safety Operators, Depot Specialists, Senior Technicians, and SDS Specialists to ensure vehicles remain safe, operational, and deployment-ready. You will play a critical role in maintaining fleet availability, meeting operational KPIs, and supporting the successful launch and scaling of autonomous vehicle fleets.

This position is ideal for candidates with experience in fleet operations, mobility services, automotive operations, logistics, or transportation who enjoy leading teams in fast-paced, technology-driven environments.

Key Responsibilities Fleet Operations Management
  • Lead the daily operations of autonomous vehicle and robotaxi fleets across one or multiple depot locations.
  • Ensure vehicles are operationally ready to support testing, commercial deployment, and autonomous ride-hailing services.
  • Monitor fleet utilization, vehicle availability, charging schedules, and operational readiness.
  • Coordinate daily vehicle dispatch and return activities to maximize fleet efficiency.
  • Minimize vehicle downtime through effective operational planning and coordination.
Depot Operations
  • Oversee all activities within the robotaxi depot, ensuring safe, efficient, and organized operations.
  • Coordinate the work of Depot Specialists, Safety Operators, Senior Technicians, and SDS Specialists.
  • Ensure vehicles meet cleanliness, charging, inspection, and maintenance standards before deployment.
  • Support depot setup and operational readiness for new city launches and fleet expansion projects.
Team Leadership
  • Recruit, onboard, train, and supervise operational staff.
  • Create shift schedules supporting 24/7 fleet operations.
  • Conduct performance reviews and coaching sessions.
  • Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
  • Ensure all team members follow operational procedures and safety standards.
Client & Stakeholder Management
  • Act as the primary operational contact for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Coordinate daily activities with engineering, product, technical, and fleet management teams.
  • Prepare operational reports, KPI dashboards, and performance summaries.
  • Escalate operational risks and develop mitigation plans.
  • Support customer visits, audits, and operational reviews.
Operational Excellence
  • Monitor KPIs including fleet availability, vehicle uptime, dispatch efficiency, depot productivity, and operational quality.
  • Identify process improvement opportunities that reduce downtime and improve fleet performance.
  • Develop and implement standard operating procedures for autonomous vehicle operations.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives during robotaxi fleet scaling and commercial deployment.
Health, Safety & Compliance
  • Ensure compliance with company policies, local regulations, and operational procedures.
  • Promote a strong safety culture across all operational teams.
  • Ensure incidents are properly investigated, documented, and resolved.
  • Maintain compliance with health & safety requirements for fleet and depot operations.
Requirements Essential
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in fleet operations, automotive operations, transportation, logistics, mobility services, or similar operational environments.
  • Previous experience leading operational or technical teams.
  • Experience managing shift-based or 24/7 operations.
  • Strong leadership and people management skills.
  • Excellent organisational and planning abilities.
  • Experience monitoring KPIs and operational performance.
  • Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
  • Fluent English.
Preferred
  • Experience supporting autonomous vehicles, robotaxi fleets, ADAS programs, or automotive testing.
  • Experience with electric vehicle (EV) fleet operations.
  • Previous experience launching new operational sites or depots.
  • Knowledge of fleet management systems and operational reporting tools.
  • Additional European languages are an advantage depending on project location.
What We Offer
  • Opportunity to lead large-scale autonomous vehicle and robotaxi fleet operations across Europe.
  • Exposure to cutting-edge self-driving vehicle technologies and commercial autonomous ride-hailing services.
  • Leadership role supporting new city launches, depot setup, and fleet expansion.
  • Work alongside engineering, product, and operations teams shaping the future of autonomous transportation.
  • Long-term career development within fleet management, autonomous mobility, and robotaxi operations.
  • International projects supporting some of the world's leading autonomous vehicle programs.
  • Comprehensive onboarding and continuous professional development.
About the Role

Successful AV Operations Leads combine operational excellence with strong leadership and a passion for emerging mobility technologies.

You understand how to coordinate people, vehicles, depots, and processes while maintaining the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. You thrive in dynamic environments and enjoy solving operational challenges as autonomous vehicle fleets expand into new cities and markets.

Whether supporting pilot programs or fully commercial robotaxi operations, you will play a key role in ensuring every vehicle, every shift, and every team member contributes to a safe and reliable autonomous mobility service.

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