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Race Car Test Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver

Bloomington, CA

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Driver Operator Applus IDIADA is seeking Driver Operators to join our team. The ideal candidate is ... We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin ...

formeldusa

Test Drivers

Novi, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

The Test Driver (Local and Travel) is responsible for driving and evaluating new and prototype ... Able to travel by car or plane for extended assignments within the U.S. as required. * Must have ...

Hendrick

... Driver-in-the-Loop (DiL), Design of Experiments (DOE), Lap Time Simulation (LTS), software ... Actively participate in 7-Post operations, including mechanical changeover of the test car when ...

Kellymoss Inc.

Race Technician

Fitchburg, WI

Perform car setups based upon the recommendations and/or requirements of the engineers and drivers * Assist with set up and tear down at race events * Professionally represent the team and sponsors ...

Lucid Motors

Prototype Driver, Vehicle Test

Wittmann, AZ

$15 - $18.75/hr

This is not a performance or race driving oriented role. Test drive and evaluate test vehicles on ... Specifically, our Vehicle Test Drivers will be responsible for driving prototype vehicles on ...

WME Express

Test Car Driver

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$25/hr

... drivers to help test self-driving cars ! You'll sit in the car, monitor how it drives, and step in ... Experience with self-driving cars , driving schools , racing , or vehicle testing . * Training in ...

WME Express

Test Car Driver

Atlanta, GA · On-site

... drivers to help test self-driving cars ! You'll sit in the car, monitor how it drives, and step in ... Experience with self-driving cars , driving schools , racing , or vehicle testing . * Training in ...

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver - Phoenix, AZ

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Driver Operator Applus IDIADA is seeking Driver Operators to join our team. The ideal candidate is ... We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin ...

TRC Inc

Test Conductor I

Surprise, AZ · On-site

Basic troubleshooting of hardware, software, car, test execution issues and escalate accordingly ... Valid state DMV issued or valid foreign country issued driver's license Working conditions • ...

Applus IDIADA

Vehicle Test Driver - Phoenix, AZ

Tempe, AZ

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Driver Operator Applus IDIADA is seeking Driver Operators to join our team. The ideal candidate is ... We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin ...

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Race Car Test Driver information

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How much do race car test driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for race car 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 the difference between Race Car Test Driver vs Automotive Test Driver?

AspectRace Car Test DriverAutomotive Test Driver
CredentialsDriving licenses, racing experience, specialized trainingDriving licenses, automotive certifications, testing experience
Work EnvironmentRace tracks, high-performance vehiclesTest tracks, road simulations, vehicle development labs
Industry UsageMotorsports, racing teams, automotive manufacturersAutomotive industry, vehicle manufacturers, research centers

Both Race Car Test Drivers and Automotive Test Drivers require driving licenses and specialized training. Race Car Test Drivers focus on high-performance vehicles on race tracks, often working with racing teams. Automotive Test Drivers work in controlled environments testing various vehicles for safety, performance, and reliability. While their roles overlap in vehicle testing, their environments and specific skills differ significantly.

How much does a test driver earn?

Race car test drivers typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, the employer, and the level of testing involved. Highly experienced drivers working for major manufacturers or racing teams can earn higher salaries, often supplemented with performance bonuses and benefits.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Race Car Test Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Race Car Test Driver, you need advanced driving skills, a deep understanding of vehicle dynamics, and often a background in motorsports or automotive engineering. Familiarity with telemetry systems, data analysis software, and performance measurement tools is commonly required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to provide precise feedback make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure accurate vehicle assessments, support engineering teams, and contribute to the development of high-performance, safe race cars.

How much do race car test drivers make?

Race car test drivers typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, the employer, and the level of competition. Top professionals in the field or those working with major racing teams can earn higher salaries and bonuses, especially if they have specialized skills and certifications. Compensation may also include benefits such as travel allowances and performance incentives.

How much do racecar drivers get paid?

Race car test drivers' salaries vary widely depending on experience, the level of competition, and the employer. Entry-level test drivers may earn around $50,000 to $100,000 annually, while experienced professionals working with top teams can earn several hundred thousand dollars or more per year. Compensation often includes performance bonuses and benefits related to their testing and development work.

What are race car test drivers?

Race car test drivers are professional drivers employed by automotive manufacturers or racing teams to test and evaluate race cars before they are used in competitions. They provide critical feedback on the vehicle’s performance, handling, safety, and reliability under various conditions. Their insights help engineers and designers make improvements to optimize the car’s speed, stability, and overall race-readiness. Test drivers often have a strong background in motorsports or high-performance driving, and their work is essential in the development of competitive race vehicles.

What are some common challenges faced by Race Car Test Drivers during vehicle testing sessions?

Race Car Test Drivers often encounter the challenge of providing precise feedback on a car's performance under varying track and weather conditions. They must quickly adapt to new vehicle setups, communicate effectively with engineers, and maintain focus during repetitive or high-speed testing scenarios. Balancing safety with pushing the vehicle to its limits is crucial, as is managing physical and mental fatigue during long testing days. Collaboration and clear documentation are essential to help the engineering team make data-driven decisions for vehicle improvements.

How do you become a test car driver?

To become a race car test driver, individuals typically need extensive racing experience, a strong understanding of vehicle mechanics, and a racing license or certification. Many start as professional drivers or engineers, gaining skills in high-performance driving, vehicle testing, and safety protocols, often working with racing teams or automotive manufacturers.
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Race Car Test Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Race Car Test Driver job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,807 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Vehicle Test Driver

Applus IDIADA

Bloomington, CA

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Contractor

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Applus+ IDIADA is a global partner to the automotive industry, supporting its clients in their product development activities by providing design, engineering, testing and homologation services. As a TOP Employer certified company, we have a large team of more than 3000 professionals drawn from over 22 countries, as well as an international network of subsidiaries and branch offices in 25 countries which ensures that our clients get customized, added-value solutions. IDIADA offers you the opportunity to develop a career in one of the worldwide leading automotive engineering companies.

At Applus IDIADA we are looking for talent to help us shaping the mobility of tomorrow with safer, more efficient, and sustainable vehicles. With presence in 22 countries, we offer job positions around the world and internal / transversal mobility within the company. The automotive sector is currently living a moment of deep technological change. At IDIADA, we focus on constant innovation to adapt our services' portfolio to an ever-changing environment. Therefore, as part of our team, we expect you to be dynamic and eager to learn and grow with us.

If you want an opportunity to challenge yourself and enhance your technical skills, to work in a thriving environment and to work alongside world-leading experts, then apply for one of our vacancies.

Job Description

Driver Operator

Applus IDIADA is seeking Driver Operators to join our team. The ideal candidate is technically adept and possesses general knowledge of the automotive industry and its products. The driver would be responsible for gathering data to customer specifications across North America, and documenting observations in a clear and detailed manner through our Data Acquisition system.

Responsibilities

  • Carry out various driving services on vehicles in line with customer specifications.
  • Drive and operate vehicles across a pre-defined routes through various terrain and weather conditions.
  • Perform predatory activities before shift, including but not limited to inspection of the vehicle before and after shift completion.
  • Manage data acquisition systems to ensure accurate data retrieval.
  • Drive vehicles in a safe manner and following traffic regulations.
  • Follow instructions provided by project manager.
  • Perform reporting activities daily and when required by the program manager.
  • Maintain all documentation with utmost confidentiality.
  • Support the acquisition of data and implement proper tagging techniques to document objects, obstacles, and anomalies found during data acquisition.

Duration - TBD, but must be flexible and willing to be on the road for 1-2 weeks at a time. This project is expected to last 4-5 months with consecutive projects thereafter.

(Note: These tasks are not intended to be all-inclusive. You may perform other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the company)

Qualifications

Qualifications

  • High School diploma
  • 5 years of licensed driving experience
  • Must have current Driver's License and a clean driving record for a minimum of 3 years.
  • Experience working with ADAS features highly preferred.
Additional Information

Job Functions:

  • Must be physically able to support 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 record.
  • Meet all workplace health and safety requirements and practices.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds able to drive passenger vehicles up to 8 hours a day.

Schedule:

  • Monday to Sunday

APPLUS IDIADA is an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

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