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Salaried Vehicle Test Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Autonomous Vehicle Test Driver Austin, TX (On-site) | Full-time Contract | $25/hour | 12-Month Contract Be at the Forefront of Autonomous Vehicle Innovation Our client, a leading developer in the ...

Vehicle Test Driver - Corona

Corona, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Vehicle Test Driver - Corona Contract, Compensation: USD 20 hourly Company Description Shaping the Future of Automotive Engineering Applus+ IDIADA is a global leader in automotive engineering ...

Vehicle Test Driver - Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/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 ...

Vehicle Test Driver - Texas

Round Rock, TX · On-site

$15 - $18.75/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 ...

Autonomous Vehicle Test Driver

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

In this role, you will operate CDL or box trucks while working alongside advanced vehicle ... Drive & Test: Safely operate 26-30 ft box trucks , monitor diagnostic screens, and execute test ...

Vehicle Test Driver - Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/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 ...

Vehicle Test Driver - Maryland

North East, MD · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/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 ...

In this role, you will operate CDL or box trucks while working alongside advanced vehicle ... Drive & Test: Safely operate 26-30 ft box trucks , monitor diagnostic screens, and execute test ...

Vehicle Test Driver - Florida

Bunnell, FL · On-site

$13.25 - $16.50/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 ...

Vehicle Test Driver - Florida

Bunnell, FL · On-site

$13.25 - $16.50/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 ...

Autonomous Vehicle Test Driver

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

In this role, you will operate CDL or box trucks while working alongside advanced vehicle ... Drive & Test: Safely operate 26-30 ft box trucks , monitor diagnostic screens, and execute test ...

New

Vehicle Test Driver - Texas

Round Rock, TX · On-site

$15 - $18.75/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 ...

Vehicle Test Driver - Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/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 ...

Vehicle Test Driver - Corona

Temescal Valley, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/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 ...

Vehicle Test Driver - Washington

Auburn, WA

$17.50 - $21.75/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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Salaried Vehicle Test Driver information

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$19

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

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for salaried 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 salaried vehicle test driver?

Salaried vehicle test drivers are professionals employed by automotive manufacturers, research organizations, or testing facilities to evaluate vehicles under various conditions. Their main responsibilities include driving prototypes or production vehicles to assess performance, safety, durability, and compliance with regulatory standards. They provide detailed feedback to engineers and designers, helping improve the overall quality of vehicles before they reach the market. This role may involve driving on test tracks, public roads, or in controlled environments, and requires a high level of skill, attention to detail, and sometimes specialized licenses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a salaried vehicle test driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Salaried Vehicle Test Driver, you need a valid driver's license, advanced driving skills, and a strong understanding of automotive systems, often supported by technical or mechanical education. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, data logging equipment, and test track protocols is commonly required. Attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to follow precise procedures are crucial soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure accurate test results, vehicle safety, and effective feedback for automotive development teams.

What are some of the common challenges faced by salaried vehicle test drivers, and how can these be managed effectively?

Salaried vehicle test drivers often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing test protocols, working in varying weather and road conditions, and maintaining focus during repetitive driving scenarios. Managing these challenges involves strong attention to detail, effective communication with engineering teams, and a commitment to safety procedures. Building flexibility and resilience is key, as drivers may need to adjust schedules or drive different vehicle models throughout the week. Collaborating closely with technicians and engineers also helps ensure accurate reporting and contributes to continuous vehicle improvement.

What is the difference between Salaried Vehicle Test Driver vs Contract Vehicle Test Driver?

AspectSalaried Vehicle Test DriverContract Vehicle Test Driver
Employment TypeFull-time, salariedTemporary or project-based, contract
CertificationsTypically requires driving licenses and safety certificationsSame as salaried, may require additional certifications for specific tests
Work EnvironmentCompany testing facilities or on-road testingVaries; often on-site or on-road, depending on contract
Industry UsageCommon in automotive manufacturers and testing centers

In summary, Salaried Vehicle Test Drivers are employed full-time with consistent hours and benefits, while Contract Vehicle Test Drivers work on temporary projects. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments, but employment terms differ significantly.

What cities are hiring for Salaried Vehicle Test Driver jobs?

Cities with the most Salaried Vehicle Test Driver job openings:

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

The most popular types of Vehicle Test Driver jobs are:

What states have the most Salaried Vehicle Test Driver jobs?

States with the most job openings for Salaried Vehicle Test Driver jobs include:

Infographic showing various Salaried 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.

Autonomous Vehicle Test Driver

Hire Aregio

Austin, TX • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago

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Job description

Autonomous Vehicle Test Driver
Austin, TX (On-site) | Full-time Contract | $25/hour | 12-Month Contract


Be at the Forefront of Autonomous Vehicle Innovation

Our client, a leading developer in the autonomous vehicle and delivery robot industry, is looking for attentive, detail-oriented drivers to join their team of Autonomous Vehicle Safety Drivers. This role puts you at the heart of AV testing — helping advance cutting-edge technology while upholding the highest safety standards. It's a great fit for someone with excellent driving skills, a passion for innovation, and the ability to act quickly and calmly in unpredictable driving situations.


What You'll Do

  • Operate autonomous vehicles safely and lawfully to collect critical data on system performance and environmental factors
  • Interact professionally with riders, engineers, and operations leaders, providing valuable feedback and insights
  • Monitor vehicle performance and conduct in-field testing to ensure operational safety
  • Prepare vehicles daily for in-field operations, including safety checks and system readiness
  • Submit detailed reports to support system advancements and operational improvements
  • Stay alert and anticipate the actions of other drivers, pedestrians, and unexpected events
  • Maintain full focus and remain distraction-free while driving


What You Bring

  • Valid U.S. driver's license held for at least 3 years
  • Excellent knowledge of local traffic regulations
  • Strong communication skills
  • Willingness to work in various weather conditions and road types
  • High level of responsibility and attention to detail
  • Clean driving record — no DUI, drug, or alcohol-related offenses within the last 5 years


Preferred (a plus, not required)

  • Knowledge of technical aspects of vehicles and control systems
  • Prior experience working with autonomous vehicles
  • Safe driving courses, motorsport experience, or defensive driving training


Available Schedules

  • Tuesday–Saturday (8 hrs/day, 40 hrs/week)
  • Friday–Monday (10 hrs/day, 40 hrs/week)

Shift Options

AM Shifts:

  • 4:30 AM–3:00 PM (Fri–Mon)
  • 5:00 AM–1:30 PM (Tue–Sat)
  • 5:30 AM–2:00 PM (Tue–Sat)
  • 6:00 AM–2:30 PM (Tue–Sat)

PM Shifts:

  • 2:30 PM–1:00 AM (Fri–Mon)
  • 3:30 PM–12:00 AM (Tue–Sat)
  • 4:00 PM–12:30 AM (Tue–Sat)


Why This Role

Join a team shaping the future of transportation. You'll gain hands-on exposure to real-world autonomous vehicle testing, contribute directly to the advancement of the technology, and build valuable experience in one of the fastest-growing industries today.