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Vehicle Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ami Arroyo

Vehicle Operator

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$28/hr

About the Role Our client is seeking a skilled and safety-driven Vehicle Operator - Data Collection Specialist to support the development of cutting-edge autonomous vehicle technology in Sunnyvale

DLM Pro

Vehicle Operator

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

We are hiring Vehicle Operators - Data Collection to support a leading autonomous vehicle technology company developing the future of transportation. This is an exciting opportunity for safety ...

DLM Pro

Vehicle Operator

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$28/hr

We are hiring Vehicle Operators - Data Collection to support a leading autonomous vehicle technology company developing the future of transportation. This is an exciting opportunity for safety ...

IntelliPro Group Inc.

Vehicle Operator

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

The primary objective is to maintain the integrity of the data collection process by manually operating a vehicle including by following precise routes, ensuring system uptime, and performing basic ...

IntelliPro Group Inc.

Vehicle Operator

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

The primary objective is to maintain the integrity of the data collection process by manually operating a vehicle including by following precise routes, ensuring system uptime, and performing basic ...

Ascent Placement Partners

Be Seen First

Autonomous Vehicle Operator

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$28 - $31/hr

Vehicle Operator - Data Collection (Autonomous Technology) $28-$31/hour Full-Time | Contract About the Opportunity Join a rapidly growing technology company at the forefront of next-generation ...

Ascent Placement Partners

Be Seen First

Autonomous Vehicle Operator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$28 - $31/hr

Vehicle Operator - Data Collection (Autonomous Technology) $28-$31/hour Full-Time | Contract About the Opportunity Join a rapidly growing technology company at the forefront of next-generation ...

Hikinex

Vehicle Operator Data

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

We are seeking Vehicle Operators to play a critical role in testing, collecting data, and refining cutting-edge driving technology. As part of this program, you will operate test vehicles in real ...

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All JobsVehicle Operator JobsVehicle Operator Jobs in California

Vehicle Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$23

$30

How much do vehicle operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for vehicle operator in California is $23.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.62 and $25.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a vehicle operator?

Vehicle operators are professionals responsible for driving and managing various types of vehicles, such as cars, trucks, buses, or specialized machinery. Their duties often include transporting goods or passengers, ensuring vehicle safety, conducting routine inspections, and adhering to traffic laws. Vehicle operators may work in industries like transportation, logistics, public transit, or construction. They must typically hold a valid driver's license appropriate for the vehicles they operate and may require additional certifications for specialized vehicles.

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

To thrive as a Vehicle Operator, you need a valid driver's license, safe driving skills, and a solid understanding of traffic laws and vehicle maintenance. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, fleet management software, and, in some cases, a commercial driver's license (CDL) are typically required. Strong attention to detail, time management, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, timely, and efficient transportation of goods or passengers, while minimizing risks and maintaining operational reliability.

What are some common challenges vehicle operators face in their daily work, and how can they be addressed?

Vehicle Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating heavy traffic, adhering to strict delivery schedules, and maintaining vehicle safety standards. These issues can be managed by planning routes in advance, staying updated on traffic conditions, and performing regular vehicle inspections. Additionally, effective communication with dispatchers and team members helps address unexpected delays or changes, ensuring a smooth workflow and timely deliveries.

What is the difference between Vehicle Operator vs Truck Driver?

AspectVehicle OperatorTruck Driver
Required CredentialsDriver's license, possibly specialized licenses for certain vehiclesCommercial Driver's License (CDL)
Work EnvironmentVaries from buses, forklifts, to construction vehiclesLong-haul or local trucking, freight transport
Employer & Industry UsagePublic transit, construction, logisticsFreight companies, logistics, supply chain

Vehicle Operators and Truck Drivers both operate vehicles, but Vehicle Operators typically handle a wider range of vehicles including buses and construction equipment, often requiring similar licenses. Truck Drivers focus specifically on freight transport with a CDL. The roles overlap in licensing and work environments, but their primary functions differ based on vehicle type and industry focus.

What cities in California are hiring for Vehicle Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Vehicle Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Vehicle Operator jobs in CA?

For Vehicle Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Vehicle Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vehicle Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,073 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Vehicle Operator

Ami Arroyo

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$28/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a skilled and safety-driven Vehicle Operator – Data Collection Specialist to support the development of cutting-edge autonomous vehicle technology in Sunnyvale. In this role, you will operate test vehicles, gather critical driving data, and ensure vehicle readiness. You will contribute directly to the refinement of next-generation mobility solutions by working in a fast-paced, collaborative team environment that values precision, safety, and innovation.

Core Attributes

What You Bring to the Table

  • Safety-Driven Mindset: You prioritize safety in all aspects of vehicle operations and testing.
  • Problem Solver: You excel at identifying and addressing challenges with a proactive and detail-oriented approach.
  • Effective Communicator: You provide clear, concise feedback to engineering teams, ensuring smooth collaboration.
  • Technically Skilled: You are proficient in basic software operations and follow detailed data collection protocols.
  • Team Player: You thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and are committed to continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

  • Operate test vehicles for 4–8 hours daily on predefined routes, maintaining a strict "safety first" approach.
  • Perform routine vehicle inspections to ensure roadworthiness, cleanliness, and readiness for operation.
  • Conduct basic software operations to support real-time data collection efforts.
  • Document observations, issues, and anomalies clearly and accurately.
  • Provide constructive written and verbal feedback to engineering teams, helping to enhance system performance.
  • Assist with vehicle logistics, including maintenance coordination, movement, and storage.

Qualifications for Success

What It Takes

Minimum Requirements:

  • 1-2 years of professional driving experience with a clean driving record.
  • Comfortable driving for extended periods (4–8 hours daily).
  • No moving violations within the past 12 months, DUIs, or criminal record.
  • Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Ability to follow detailed instructions and adhere to strict safety guidelines.
  • Less than 1-year of Autonomous Vehicle Operator experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
  • Previous experience in data collection, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), or autonomous vehicle testing.

Perks & Benefits

  • Pre-tax commuter benefits.
  • Employer-subsidized healthcare benefits.
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for healthcare-related expenses.
  • Fully covered short- and long-term disability and life insurance.
  • 401(k) retirement package.

Working Environment

This is a full-time, 12-month contract position based in Sunnyvale, with the potential for extension or conversion. The role is in-person with shifts from

6:00 AM – 2:30 PM: Wed-Sun | Thur-Mon | Fri-Tue
2:00 PM – 10:30 PM: Fri-Tue | Sat-Wed | Sun-Thur | Wed-Sun | Thur-Mon


About Our Client

Our client is at the forefront of autonomous vehicle technology, revolutionizing the future of transportation. They are committed to innovation, safety, and operational excellence, offering state-of-the-art solutions to enhance mobility worldwide. Their team is passionate about creating a world where technology seamlessly integrates into daily life, driving progress and sustainability.


We embrace diversity and are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to their status. While we are not able to sponsor visas at this time, we welcome every candidate eligible to work in the United States to connect with us.

Apply