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Vehicle Test Driver Jobs in Texas (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 ...

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 ...

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 - Texas

Round Rock, TX

$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 - Texas

Round Rock, TX

$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 - 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 - Hutto, TX

Hutto, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/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 - Hutto, TX

Georgetown, TX

$14.75 - $18.50/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 - Hutto, TX

Georgetown, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/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 - Hutto, TX

Pflugerville, 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 - Hutto, TX

Hutto, TX

$16.25 - $20.25/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 - Hutto, TX

Pflugerville, 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 - Hutto, TX

Georgetown, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/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 - Hutto, TX

Hutto, TX

$16.25 - $20.25/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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Vehicle Test Driver information

See Texas salary details

$8

$17

$29

How much do vehicle test driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for vehicle test driver in Texas is $17.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.33 and $17.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

How much does a vehicle test driver earn?

Vehicle test drivers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of testing tasks. Some positions may offer additional compensation for overtime or specialized skills such as vehicle diagnostics or safety testing.

Is there a job where you test drive vehicles?

A vehicle test driver is a job that involves driving new or prototype vehicles to evaluate their performance, safety, and handling. These roles often require a valid driver's license, good driving skills, and sometimes specific knowledge of vehicle mechanics or safety standards. Test drivers typically work in controlled environments or on designated test tracks and may be employed by automakers, suppliers, or testing agencies.

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

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

What job categories do people searching Vehicle Test Driver jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Vehicle Test Driver jobs in Texas are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Vehicle Test Driver job openings in Texas as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,086 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Autonomous Vehicle Test Driver

Austin, TX • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 21 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.