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Vehicle Test Driver Jobs in Carson, CA (NOW HIRING)

TSMG

Professional Test Driver

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

Drive test vehicles through predefined regional test routes across the U.S. * Operate vehicles ... Valid U.S. driver's license. * Ability to travel between test regions as needed. * Good ...

TSMG

Professional Test Driver

Los Angeles, CA

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

Drive test vehicles through predefined regional test routes across the U.S. * Operate vehicles ... Valid U.S. driver's license. * Ability to travel between test regions as needed. * Good ...

TSMG

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$19.75 - $24.25/hr

Must be at least twenty-one (21) years old, possess a valid Class C driver's license, and have at ... Test other aspects of our autonomous vehicles * Complete timely and detailed ride reports for our ...

TSMG

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$19.75 - $24.25/hr

Must be at least twenty-one (21) years old, possess a valid Class C driver's license, and have at ... Test other aspects of our autonomous vehicles * Complete timely and detailed ride reports for our ...

KOTEITSP Inc.

Be Seen First

Vehicle Test Operator - Autonomous Driving Program (Sept 2026)

Torrance, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Valid US driver's license with clean motor vehicle record for the last 3 years (no DUIs, no major ... Prior test driver, vehicle operator, or fleet operations experience (Waymo, Cruise, Aurora, May ...

New

TSMG

Autonomous vehicle Operator with CDL

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving ... driver's license, and have at least three (3) years of experience as a Class C licensed driver to ...

TSMG

Autonomous vehicle Operator with CDL

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving ... driver's license, and have at least three (3) years of experience as a Class C licensed driver to ...

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Vehicle Test Driver information

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How much do vehicle test driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for vehicle test driver in Carson, CA is $20.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $20.10 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.
More about Vehicle Test Driver jobs

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The top searched job categories for Vehicle Test Driver jobs in Carson, CA are:

What cities near Carson, CA are hiring for Vehicle Test Driver jobs?

Cities near Carson, CA with the most Vehicle Test Driver job openings:

Vehicle Test Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vehicle Test Driver job openings in Carson, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,631 per year, or $20 per hour.

Professional Test Driver

TSMG

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

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 situational awareness, and the ability to operate safely in extreme weather and challenging terrain.
No special certificates are required - experience is the priority.
Responsibilities
  • Drive test vehicles through predefined regional test routes across the U.S.
  • Operate vehicles safely in extreme heat, extreme cold, snow/ice, high elevation, and mountainous terrain.
  • Maintain full alertness and compliance with route-specific safety protocols.
  • Provide feedback on road conditions, environmental factors, and vehicle behavior.
  • Conduct routine pre-trip and post-trip inspections (basic level).
  • Follow instructions from the test coordinator and report any issues immediately.
  • Adhere strictly to schedule, safety rules, and testing guidelines.
Requirements
  • 5+ years of experience as a professional driver (test driver, delivery driver, long-haul trucking, fleet driver, etc.).
  • Proven ability to operate safely in extreme or unpredictable weather conditions.
  • Strong stamina and ability to stay fully alert for long stretches.
  • Excellent situational awareness and risk management skills.
  • Valid U.S. driver's license.
  • Ability to travel between test regions as needed.
  • Good communication skills and ability to follow structured test procedures.
  • Reliable, responsible, and safety-oriented.
Preferred Qualifications
  • High-temperature desert driving
  • Snow/ice or winter testing
  • Mountain or high-altitude driving

  • Experience with vehicle testing or automotive programs (not required)
What We Offer
  • Work on a unique U.S.- wide automotive test project
  • Competitive compensation
  • Travel support depending on the route schedule
  • Opportunity to gain experience with specialized test operations
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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