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Test Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Kett Engineering Corporation

Test Driver

Fontana, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Test Driver Fontana, CA - Fontana, CA 92335 Overview Salary Range $20.00 - $20.00 Hourly Position Type Part Time Job Shift Graveyard Education Level High School Travel Percentage Negligible Category ...

TSMG

Professional Test Driver

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

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 ...

formeldusa

Vehicle Test Driver

Newark, CA · On-site

$21 - $24.25/hr

Vehicle Test Driver Shift: Monday-Friday -- 4am - 12pm, 12pm - 8pm, 8pm - 4am * Flexibility with working overtime and on weekends * Flexibility on adapting to other shift hours Pay Range: $21-$24.25 ...

Formel D USA

Vehicle Test Driver

Newark, CA · On-site

$23.25/hr

Vehicle Test Driver Shift: Monday-Friday -- 8:00 A.M.-5:00 P.M. 4am - 12pm, 12pm - 8pm, 8pm - 4am * Flexibility with working overtime and on weekends * Flexibility on adapting to other shift hours ...

TSMG

Professional Test Driver

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

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 ...

formeldusa

Vehicle Test Driver

Newark, CA

$21 - $24.25/hr

Vehicle Test Driver Shift: Monday-Friday -- 8:00 A.M.-5:00 P.M. 4am - 12pm, 12pm - 8pm, 8pm - 4am * Flexibility with working overtime and on weekends * Flexibility on adapting to other shift hours ...

Kett Engineering Corporation

Test Driver

Fontana, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Must be able to complete training in all durability test procedures and driving routes, availability to meet scheduling requirements. Sufficient computer skills. Physical Requirements : Required to ...

formeldusa

Vehicle Test Driver

Newark, CA · On-site

$21 - $24.25/hr

Vehicle Test Driver Shift: Monday-Friday -- 8:00 A.M.-5:00 P.M. 4am - 12pm, 12pm - 8pm, 8pm - 4am * Flexibility with working overtime and on weekends * Flexibility on adapting to other shift hours ...

Formel D USA

Vehicle Test Driver

Newark, CA · On-site

$23.25/hr

Vehicle Test Driver Shift: Monday-Friday -- 4am - 12pm, 12pm - 8pm, 8pm - 4am * Flexibility with working overtime and on weekends * Flexibility on adapting to other shift hours Pay Range: $21-$24.25 ...

Formel D USA

Vehicle Test Driver

Newark, CA · On-site

$21 - $24.25/hr

Vehicle Test Driver Shift: Monday-Friday -- 8:00 A.M.-5:00 P.M. 4am - 12pm, 12pm - 8pm, 8pm - 4am * Flexibility with working overtime and on weekends * Flexibility on adapting to other shift hours ...

KETT ENGINEERING CORPORATION

Test Driver

Fontana, CA

$20/hr

Must be able to complete training in all durability test procedures anddriving routes, availabilitytomeet scheduling requirements.Sufficient computer skills. Physical Requirements : Requiredtolift ...

TRUCKING PEOPLE

Autonomous Field Test Driver

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Test Driver / Vehicle Operator - Autonomous Vehicle Data Collection Location: Sunnyvale, CA (On-Site, with travel to San Francisco) Pay: $25.00 - $28.00 per hour Schedule: * PM Shift: 2:30 PM - 10:30 ...

Kett Engineering

Test Driver Operator

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$26/hr

The Driver 1 works under the direction of the Lead Driver and Driver Supervisor to ensure test schedule requirements and relevant procedures are followed. Additionally, the Driver 1 upholds a ...

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All JobsTest Driver JobsTest Driver Jobs in California

Test Driver information

See California salary details

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How much do test driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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 test driver?

Test drivers are professionals who operate vehicles under various conditions to evaluate their performance, safety, and reliability. They work for automotive manufacturers, research organizations, or regulatory agencies to ensure that new or modified vehicles meet specific standards and requirements. Test drivers follow detailed protocols, document their findings, and may provide feedback to engineers and designers to help improve the vehicle's design and functionality.

What are some common challenges test drivers face during vehicle evaluations?

Test Drivers often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing test scenarios, accurately documenting subtle vehicle behaviors, and maintaining focus during repetitive or long driving sessions. They must also ensure strict adherence to safety protocols while pushing vehicles to their performance limits. Effective communication with engineers and development teams is crucial, as Test Drivers provide firsthand feedback that shapes vehicle improvements.

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

To thrive as a Test Driver, you need a valid driver's license, strong driving skills, and an understanding of automotive mechanics or vehicle systems. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, data logging equipment, and sometimes specialized driving certifications are typically required. Attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are important soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure accurate vehicle assessments, safety during test procedures, and effective feedback to engineering teams.

What is the difference between Test Driver vs Quality Control Inspector?

AspectTest DriverQuality Control Inspector
Required CredentialsDriver's license, driving experienceInspection certifications, quality assurance training
Work EnvironmentTest tracks, automotive labsManufacturing plants, inspection sites
Industry UsageAutomotive testing, product evaluationManufacturing quality assurance

Test Drivers primarily evaluate vehicles' performance on roads or tracks, focusing on driving experience and vehicle handling. Quality Control Inspectors assess products for defects and compliance during manufacturing. While both roles ensure product quality, Test Drivers focus on operational testing, whereas Quality Control Inspectors concentrate on inspection and defect detection.

How much does a test driver earn?

Test drivers typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the industry sector. Skilled drivers with specialized training or certifications may earn higher salaries, especially when working for major automotive or aerospace companies. Compensation can also include benefits such as health insurance and performance bonuses.
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Test Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Test Driver job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,286 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Test Driver

Kett Engineering Corporation

Fontana, CA • On-site

$20/hr

Other

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Test Driver

Fontana, CA - Fontana, CA 92335

Overview

Salary Range $20.00 - $20.00 Hourly Position Type Part Time Job Shift Graveyard Education Level High School Travel Percentage Negligible Category Transportation

Description

This position is responsible for efficiently driving customer vehicles assigned by management on an evaluation route, executing evaluation procedures, and work instructions in order to collect and report accurate data.

Essential Functions:

  • Drive vehicles and perform all assigned tasks with safety as first consideration
  • Drive all assigned vehicles in a responsible manner, while obeying all traffic laws and any other rules, procedures, and special instructions prescribed by management, and customers
  • Display excellent demonstrated driving skills documented by a supervised field evaluation and a good driving history acknowledged by DMV records
  • Maintain the integrity of the evaluation route and procedures
  • Observe and record (in written logs and reports) required data per customer requirements
  • Perform basic supervised care of vehicles as required; check for damage / drive vehicle with safety and care as a first consideration etc.
  • Perform duties in an efficient and effective manner in order to meet or exceed customer expectations
  • Maintain a professional manner, in deed, work and dress representing both Kett and our customers
  • Perform other duties as required by management and the customer

Key Responsibilities:

  • Promote safety awareness and assure compliance with all safety practices
  • Complete training in all paperwork, reporting procedures and practices as per work instruction
  • Contribute to a positive work environment and promote overall team effort
  • Focus on meeting and exceeding customer and Kett expectations
  • Possess a thorough understanding of schedule operations, Kett and customer policies and procedures and Kett's Vision and Values
  • Good communication skills, verbal and written
  • Ability to complete concise and accurate documentation
  • Remain flexible supporting varying workloads and schedule changes
Qualifications

Job Requirements:

Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent required. Basic math skills required. Must be literate and able to read and write the English Language

Skills/Experience: Basic knowledge of vehicle components, systems, and operating procedures. Ability to drive an automatic and/or manual transmission vehicle. Must be able to complete training in all durability test procedures and driving routes, availability to meet scheduling requirements. Sufficient computer skills.

Physical Requirements: Required to lift up to 50 pounds. Job requires sitting, standing, and bending for approximately 6 8 hours on a daily basis.

Critical Skills:

  • Safety: Abides by, promotes and acknowledges all safety practices in keeping with high safety standards
  • Communications: Must provide information and receive feedback in a concise, accurate and detailed manner
  • Dependability: Display ability to successfully and satisfactorily complete assigned tasks
  • Cooperation: Exhibit characteristics of an effective team member focused on a common goal, promotes the development of like qualities in others
  • Initiative and Resourcefulness: Possess incentive to take effective action, anticipate needs and perform in accordance to resources provided
  • Flexibility: Must be willing and able to expand the scope of responsibilities as dependent upon requirements of the business environment
  • Commitment: Able to accept assigned tasks with a quality result as an objective
  • Focus: Recognizes and operates within the scope of Kett's Visions and Values
  • Dedication: Demonstrate the ability to consistently perform all responsibilities with integrity
  • Result Oriented: Accomplish performance targets established by Kett and the customer

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