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Test Driver Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Hyundai Motor Company

Propulsion Test Engineer II

Chino, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Propulsion Test Engineer II The Team: The Performance and Drivability Development Team oversees the ... Valid Driver's License and a satisfactory driving record WHAT HYUNDAI CAN OFFER YOU * Zero-dollar ...

Hyundai Motor Company

Propulsion Test Engineer II

Chino, CA · Hybrid

$90K - $110K/yr

Propulsion Test Engineer II The Team: The Performance and Drivability Development Team oversees the ... Valid Driver's License and a satisfactory driving record WHAT HYUNDAI CAN OFFER YOU * Zero-dollar ...

Apple

Wireless System Automation and Test Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$49.50 - $65.25/hr

Proven experience developing test automation, including equipment drivers, debug tools, automation scripts and interfaces. Experience with automation infrastructure development (traceability ...

Masimo

Sr Test Engineering Technician

Irvine, CA

$33 - $39/hr

The Test Engineering Technician supports the execution of verification, validation, reliability, and performance testing for Masimo products and technologies. This role is responsible for setting up ...

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All JobsTest Driver JobsTest Driver Jobs in Riverside, CA

Test Driver information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$10

$19

$32

How much do test driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for test driver in Riverside, CA is $19.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $20.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Is a Test Driver?

A test driver measures the performance of a vehicle for car manufacturers. While some tests are done with computers or crash dummies, test drivers are an essential part of the process that cannot be simulated in a lab. Their duties involve driving new models and prototypes of cars to test safety, speed, and the mechanics of the engine, pushing the vehicle to the outer limits of performance. Test drivers observe odd noises, braking or accelerating issues, and maximum speed and report the data to the manufacturers.

What are test drivers?

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.

How much does a Lamborghini test driver make?

Lamborghini test drivers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of testing tasks. They often require specialized driving skills, knowledge of vehicle dynamics, and sometimes certifications in automotive testing or engineering.

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.

What job makes $1,000,000 a year?

Test drivers in specialized fields such as high-performance automotive testing or aerospace testing can earn close to or over $1,000,000 annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and working for major corporations. These roles often require extensive technical knowledge, certifications, and sometimes involve working in high-stakes environments or on exclusive projects.

Is there a job where you test drive cars?

A test driver is a professional who evaluates vehicles by driving them to assess performance, safety, and quality. This role often requires driving skills, knowledge of vehicle mechanics, and sometimes specific certifications, and it may involve testing prototypes or new models in controlled environments or on public roads.

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.

How do I become a test driver?

To become a test driver, candidates typically need a valid driver's license, a strong driving record, and experience in vehicle operation or racing. Many positions require knowledge of vehicle mechanics and safety protocols, and some employers prefer candidates with a background in engineering or automotive technology. Certification in defensive driving or specialized training may also be beneficial.
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Test Driver jobs near you
EVOC Triage Engineer

EVOC Triage Engineer

Kett Engineering Corporation

Irvine, CA • On-site

$45/hr

Other

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Job description:
Company Overview
Kett Engineering is a 60-year-old company with over 28 years of experience in the automotive test industry. We support vehicle testing, development, personnel management, and staffing for leading automotive manufacturers and Tier-1 suppliers. Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to delivering exceptional customer service and quality in every project.
Summary
We are seeking a dedicated EVOC Triage Engineer to join our team in Irvine, CA. This is a critical, hands-on role responsible for rapidly triaging, tracking, and driving resolution of all fleet issues, playing a key part in accelerating our vehicle development and reliability growth. The role is part data analytics and part hands-on vehicle diagnostics.
EVOC is an over the road mileage accumulation program that operate in multiple locations and weather conditions to capture issues before products go to market.
You will personally diagnose vehicles onsite using CANalyzer and other CAN tools, and for high-priority issues you may be required to travel to remote locations on short notice. This requires a broad and deep understanding of all EV systems, including but not limited to Thermal, Charging, Propulsion, Chassis, and Body Controls. You will ensure all relevant data is captured and documented in tickets to enable fast, accurate root-cause analysis and resolution. You will be the central point of contact for our test drivers, technicians, and engineering teams to follow up on vehicle issues.
Responsibilities
  • Manage Issue Triage & Tracking: Act as the first line of defense for new vehicle issues. Document, prioritize, and assign emerging problems using Jira (e.g., system-level tickets, root cause analysis requests). Analyze trends and escalate high volume and high severity issues.
  • Investigate & Document: Collaborate with test drivers to gather detailed logs and qualitative feedback to strengthen issue reports. Ensure all diagnostic information is accurately captured and linked. Diagnose in vehicle or with dashboard data initial root cause of issues.
  • Facilitate Failure Analysis: Create tickets for any hardware issues. Manage the logistics for failed components. You will be responsible for ensuring parts are correctly removed, documented, and routed to the appropriate engineering teams or suppliers for root cause analysis.
  • Act as a Key Liaison: Serve as the primary communication bridge between test drivers, the workshop/tech team, and supporting engineering groups to ensure seamless information flow for rapid problem resolution.
  • Maximize Fleet Uptime: Proactively manage and prioritize the fleet schedule to ensure continuous, efficient testing. Create, manage, and track workshop repair tickets from inception to closure.
  • Coordinate Vehicle Updates: Oversee the deployment of Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates to the fleet. In some cases, manually flashing may be required to update the fleet or verify issue resolution.

Qualifications
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Automotive Technology, or a related technical field.
  • Experience: A minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in a fast-paced technical environment (automotive, aerospace, or a related hardware-testing field is strongly preferred).
  • Technical Skills: High proficiency in Jira for ticket creation, workflow management, and reporting.
  • Automotive Knowledge: Strong understanding of complex vehicle systems, diagnostics, and architecture. Specific experience with Electric Vehicles (EVs) is a major asset.
  • No driving related suspensions or revocation of Driver License
  • Must have a valid driver's license and/or Real ID or any other documentation to travel within the country.
  • Will be subject to continuous Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) monitoring

If you are passionate about advancing electric vehicle technology and thrive in a dynamic testing environment, we invite you to bring your expertise to Kett Engineering. Join us in shaping the future of automotive innovation-apply today to become part of our dedicated team.

Apply