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Prototype Vehicle Test Driver Jobs in California

TSMG

Professional Test Driver

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

Drive test vehicles through predefined regional test routes across the U.S. * Operate vehicles ... Valid U.S. driver's license. * Ability to travel between test regions as needed. * Good ...

TSMG

Professional Test Driver

Los Angeles, CA

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

Drive test vehicles through predefined regional test routes across the U.S. * Operate vehicles ... Valid U.S. driver's license. * Ability to travel between test regions as needed. * Good ...

Kett Engineering

Be Seen First

Test Driver Operator

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$26/hr

... evaluating our prototype test vehicles and documenting product development feedback to our ... The Driver 1 works under the direction of the Lead Driver and Driver Supervisor to ensure test ...

Kett Engineering

Be Seen First

Vehicle Test Operator

Torrance, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for operating, driving, troubleshooting and evaluating client's prototype test vehicles and documenting product development feedback to our engineers. This takes ...

Transdev

Vehicle Test Assistant

Atwater, CA

$21 - $24/hr

The Vehicle Test Assistant plays an integral role in helping our drivers test prototype vehicles. He/she simulates "everyday" city traffic that's seen on the road. He/she will develop a unique sense ...

Transdev

Vehicle Test Assistant

Atwater, CA · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

The Vehicle Test Assistant plays an integral role in helping our drivers test prototype vehicles. He/she simulates "everyday" city traffic that's seen on the road. He/she will develop a unique sense ...

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All JobsPrototype Vehicle Test Driver JobsPrototype Vehicle Test Driver Jobs in California

Prototype Vehicle Test Driver information

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype vehicle test driver in California is $18.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a prototype vehicle test driver?

A Prototype Vehicle Test Driver evaluates pre-production vehicles to assess performance, safety, and durability. They follow test plans on tracks, public roads, or controlled environments, collecting data for engineers. Drivers provide detailed feedback on handling, braking, ride comfort, and other factors to help refine the vehicle before mass production. The role requires strong driving skills, attention to detail, and sometimes mechanical knowledge to identify issues accurately.

What does a prototype vehicle test driver do?

A typical day for a Prototype Vehicle Test Driver involves operating prototype vehicles on test tracks or public roads to evaluate performance, safety, and overall functionality. Drivers work closely with engineers and technicians, providing detailed feedback and documenting results from various test scenarios, including acceleration, braking, handling, and environmental conditions. The role may require flexible hours to accommodate different test schedules and conditions, including driving in varying weather and road environments. Being part of a collaborative team, you’ll attend regular briefing sessions and contribute valuable insights to help guide vehicle development and improvements.

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

To thrive as a Prototype Vehicle Test Driver, you need advanced driving skills, automotive technical knowledge, and a valid driver's license, often complemented by experience in vehicle testing or engineering. Familiarity with vehicle diagnostics tools, data logging systems, and sometimes specialized certifications such as high-performance or commercial driving credentials are common requirements. Sharp attention to detail, adaptability, and clear written and verbal communication are crucial soft skills in this position. These skills are essential for ensuring safe and accurate vehicle evaluations, effective feedback for design improvements, and detailed documentation during the prototype testing process.

How to become a prototype vehicle test driver?

To become a prototype vehicle test driver, candidates typically need a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and experience driving various vehicle types. Relevant skills include mechanical knowledge, attention to safety protocols, and the ability to provide detailed feedback on vehicle performance. Some positions may require a background in automotive engineering or related fields and physical fitness to handle demanding testing environments.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Prototype Vehicle Test Driver jobs in California?

For Prototype Vehicle Test Driver jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Prototype Vehicle Test Driver jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Prototype Vehicle Test Driver jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Prototype Vehicle Test Driver jobs?

Cities in California with the most Prototype Vehicle Test Driver job openings:

Prototype Vehicle Test Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prototype Vehicle Test Driver job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,286 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Professional Test Driver

TSMG

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Overview

We are looking for highly experienced professional drivers to support a series of regional vehicle test loops across the United States.
The role requires exceptional driving skill, strong situational awareness, and the ability to operate safely in extreme weather and challenging terrain.
No special certificates are required - experience is the priority.
Responsibilities
  • Drive test vehicles through predefined regional test routes across the U.S.
  • Operate vehicles safely in extreme heat, extreme cold, snow/ice, high elevation, and mountainous terrain.
  • Maintain full alertness and compliance with route-specific safety protocols.
  • Provide feedback on road conditions, environmental factors, and vehicle behavior.
  • Conduct routine pre-trip and post-trip inspections (basic level).
  • Follow instructions from the test coordinator and report any issues immediately.
  • Adhere strictly to schedule, safety rules, and testing guidelines.
Requirements
  • 5+ years of experience as a professional driver (test driver, delivery driver, long-haul trucking, fleet driver, etc.).
  • Proven ability to operate safely in extreme or unpredictable weather conditions.
  • Strong stamina and ability to stay fully alert for long stretches.
  • Excellent situational awareness and risk management skills.
  • Valid U.S. driver's license.
  • Ability to travel between test regions as needed.
  • Good communication skills and ability to follow structured test procedures.
  • Reliable, responsible, and safety-oriented.
Preferred Qualifications
  • High-temperature desert driving
  • Snow/ice or winter testing
  • Mountain or high-altitude driving

  • Experience with vehicle testing or automotive programs (not required)
What We Offer
  • Work on a unique U.S.- wide automotive test project
  • Competitive compensation
  • Travel support depending on the route schedule
  • Opportunity to gain experience with specialized test operations
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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