1

Vehicle Test Driver Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Vehicle Maintenance Supervisor

Irvine, KY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Road test vehicles to determine necessary repairs as needed * Perform mechanical duties as needed ... Valid driver's license (if applicable) * Must successfully complete pre-employment testing * Must ...

$120 - $180/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Support propulsion system testing from test stand buildup through full-scale test execution ... Valid driver's license and ability to operate company vehicles . Security Requirements * Must be ...

New

Automotive Technician

Owensboro, KY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Repair customer vehicles * Test drives as needed * Help ensure shop safety Automotive Technician Requirements: * Automotive Technician / Mechanic experience * Valid driver's license * Set of tools ...

Driver

Elizabethtown, KY · On-site

$13/hr

Drug test * Criminal Background check - over one year since prior conviction * TB skin test: Must ... Ensure that the vehicle is always fueled and ready for use * Arrange for vehicle repairs as needed

Automotive Technician

Owensboro, KY

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Repair customer vehicles * Test drives as needed * Help ensure shop safety Automotive Technician Requirements: * Automotive Technician / Mechanic experience * Valid driver's license * Set of tools ...

Automotive Technician

Owensboro, KY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Repair customer vehicles * Test drives as needed * Help ensure shop safety Automotive Technician Requirements: * Automotive Technician / Mechanic experience * Valid driver's license * Set of tools ...

Diesel Mechanic

Bardstown, KY · On-site

$22 - $29/hr

Routinely change tires on tractors and trailers, large commercial vehicles. * Test electrical ... Valid Class A CDL license, or willing to obtain one. * Professional appearance and a positive ...

Conduct laboratory component, systems, and vehicle tests to evaluate and validate new designs and ... Basic machining and welding experience preferred. * CDL license preferred. * PC experience required ...

Diesel Mechanic

Bardstown, KY · On-site

$22 - $29/hr

Routinely change tires on tractors and trailers, large commercial vehicles. * Test electrical ... Valid Class A CDL license, or willing to obtain one. * Professional appearance and a positive ...

$128 - $192/hr

... BAT vehicle. These solutions are in-house designed electrical and mechanical equipment used to ... Architect, design, and develop software drivers and interfaces in Python for hardware systems ...

New

Showing results 21-40

Vehicle Test Driver information

See Kentucky salary details

$8

$16

$27

How much do vehicle test driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for vehicle test driver in Kentucky is $16.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $16.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a vehicle test driver do?

As a vehicle test driver, you operate a vehicle and perform a test drive to check systems on a test track or open road. Your feedback helps assess safety factors, provide reports for fuel economy, and identify issues before production. You may work with a prototype, pre-production, or a finished vehicle and are often expected to inspect and review every part of the car, from tires to brakes to turn signals to engines. Your duties include completing scientifically designed tests and creating reports on your findings to improve the speed and safety of vehicles.

What is a vehicle test driver?

Vehicle test drivers are professionals who operate automobiles, trucks, or other vehicles in controlled or real-world environments to evaluate their performance, safety, and reliability. They follow specific test procedures and report on factors such as handling, braking, acceleration, and comfort. Their feedback helps manufacturers identify potential problems and improve vehicle design before products reach the market.

How much does a vehicle test driver earn?

A vehicle test driver typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Some test drivers may also receive additional benefits such as overtime pay, performance bonuses, and access to specialized testing environments.

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

AspectVehicle Test DriverVehicle Quality Inspector
Required CredentialsValid driver's license, driving experience, sometimes specialized trainingQuality control certifications, attention to detail, inspection training
Work EnvironmentTest tracks, manufacturing plants, vehicle testing facilitiesInspection stations, manufacturing lines, quality assurance labs
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturers, testing agencies, R&D departmentsAutomotive plants, quality assurance companies, certification bodies

While both roles involve working with vehicles, Vehicle Test Drivers focus on driving and evaluating vehicle performance, whereas Vehicle Quality Inspectors concentrate on inspecting vehicles for defects and quality standards. The roles often overlap in automotive testing environments but serve different primary functions.

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

To thrive as a Vehicle Test Driver, you need a valid driver’s license, strong driving skills, mechanical aptitude, and often a background in automotive technology or engineering. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, data logging systems, and vehicle testing protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to follow precise instructions are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate vehicle assessments, reliable data collection, and the safe execution of test procedures.

What challenges might I face as a vehicle test driver, and how can I prepare for them?

As a Vehicle Test Driver, you'll often encounter varying road conditions, tight schedules, and the need to meticulously document your observations. Adapting quickly to different vehicles and maintaining focus during long or repetitive test drives are common challenges. Strong communication skills are essential, as you'll regularly collaborate with engineers and technicians to relay performance feedback and safety concerns. Preparing by staying up to date on vehicle technologies and practicing defensive driving techniques can help you excel in this role.

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

The most popular types of Vehicle Test Driver jobs in Kentucky are:

What are popular job titles related to Vehicle Test Driver jobs in Kentucky?

For Vehicle Test Driver jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Vehicle Test Driver jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Vehicle Test Driver job openings:

Infographic showing various Vehicle Test Driver job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,573 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

CDL Class A Test Truck Runner

160 Driving Academy

Louisville, KY • On-site

$24 - $25/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 8 hours ago


160 Driving Academy rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Type
Part-time
Description
160 Driving Academy is seeking a reliable and safety-focused CDL Test Truck Runner to transport test trucks to CDL testing locations for student exams.
This role plays an important part in supporting students on test day by ensuring the vehicle is ready, documentation is complete, and students feel prepared and confident.
This is a Monday through Friday position, with start and end times that may vary based on testing schedules.
Responsibilities
Transport test trucks to and from CDL testing locations.
• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections to ensure the vehicle is safe and ready for testing.
• Verify required documentation is present and accurate in the vehicle.
• Assist students during the check-in process at the testing site.
• Provide basic guidance and support to help students feel prepared for testing.
• Review key expectations for Pre-Trip, Skills, and Road Tests.
• Communicate test results and updates to school staff.
What We Offer
• Local position with no overnight travel.
• Hourly pay based on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, PTO, and paid holidays.
• Training and onboarding to support your success in the role.
• An opportunity to make a direct impact by supporting students on test day.
160 Driving Academy is one of the nation's leading CDL training providers. With 90 locations across 32 states, we offer career stability and relocation opportunities within our network of schools.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
160 Driving Academy is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, protected veteran status, disability/handicap status, or any other legally protected characteristic.
Requirements
  • Must reside in the state you are applying for or have a residence secured for relocation.
  • Valid CDL Class A license with a minimum of 24 months of verifiable tractor-trailer driving experience.
  • Safe driving record and ability to pass DOT physical and drug/alcohol screening.
  • Strong attention to detail, especially with documentation and vehicle readiness.
  • Good communication skills and ability to support students in a professional manner.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule based on testing times.

Salary Description
$24.00-$25.00

What 160 Driving Academy employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


160 Driving Academy logo

About 160 Driving Academy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Given the massive shortage of truck drivers in the U.S., the 160 Driving Academy has become a strategic supplier of Human Capital to some of the largest companies in the United States. At the same time, working with government leaders, the 160 Driving Academy has become the largest job creator in numerous cities and states. Run by highly experienced leaders from industry and organizations like Teach for America, the 160 Driving Academy is seeking leaders who are driven, energetic and personable to lead its newest Branch locations.

Industry

Business schools and computer and management training

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Peoria, IL, US

Year founded

2012