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Vehicle Test Driver Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Hyster-Yale

Forklift Test Driver

Portland, OR · On-site

$18 - $21.25/hr

Forklift Test Driver Forklift Test Driver - Contract Position Put a LIFT in Your Career! Hyster ... Perform simple facility or vehicle maintenance duties as assigned. * Follow safety procedures.

New

Crash Champions

Autobody Mechanic

Tigard, OR

Test drive vehicles, test components and systems using equipment such as computerized diagnostic ... Must have valid driver's license. * Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds Submit a Referral ...

Clean Harbors

Mobile Vehicle Mechanic

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Valid driver's license and clean driving record. * 1+ years prior experience working on heavy duty ... Ability to pass a background, drug, and physical test upon hire. 40-years of sustainability in ...

Clean Harbors

Mobile Vehicle Mechanic

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$17.97 - $47.77/hr

Maintain active light duty or DQ driver status as per mobile vehicle type. * Performs other duties ... Ability to pass a background, drug, and physical test upon hire. 40-years of sustainability in ...

Clean Harbors

Mobile Vehicle Mechanic

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$17.97 - $47.77/hr

Maintain active light duty or DQ driver status as per mobile vehicle type. * Performs other duties ... Ability to pass a background, drug, and physical test upon hire. 40-years of sustainability in ...

Clean Harbors

Mobile Vehicle Mechanic

Portland, OR · On-site

$17.97 - $47.77/hr

Maintain active light duty or DQ driver status as per mobile vehicle type. * Performs other duties ... Ability to pass a background, drug, and physical test upon hire. 40-years of sustainability in ...

Clean Harbors

Mobile Vehicle Mechanic

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$17.97 - $47.77/hr

Maintain active light duty or DQ driver status as per mobile vehicle type. * Performs other duties ... Ability to pass a background, drug, and physical test upon hire. 40-years of sustainability in ...

Clean Harbors

Mobile Vehicle Mechanic

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Valid driver's license and clean driving record. * 1+ years prior experience working on heavy duty ... Ability to pass a background, drug, and physical test upon hire. 40-years of sustainability in ...

Clean Harbors

Mobile Vehicle Mechanic

Tualatin, OR

$30 - $37/hr

Valid driver's license and clean driving record. * 1+ years prior experience working on heavy duty ... Ability to pass a background, drug, and physical test upon hire. 40-years of sustainability in ...

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All JobsVehicle Test Driver JobsVehicle Test Driver Jobs in Portland, OR

Vehicle Test Driver information

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How much do vehicle test driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for vehicle test driver in Portland, OR is $20.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $20.34 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.
More about Vehicle Test Driver jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Vehicle Test Driver jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Vehicle Test Driver jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Vehicle Test Driver jobs in Portland, OR? For Vehicle Test Driver jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Vehicle Test Driver jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Vehicle Test Driver jobs in Portland, OR are:
Vehicle Test Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vehicle Test Driver job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,059 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Test Driver - Portland

Kett Engineering Corporation

Portland, OR • On-site

$24/hr

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Kett Engineering is looking for project Test Drivers to work with us at our customer location in Portland, OR!
Successful candidates will drive and evaluate pre-production and prototype test vehicles for an upcoming test project.
We are looking for good, dependable, and safe drivers to evaluate vehicles and their systems. Drivers must be able to work 5 days a week, Monday through Friday. Strong technical and mechanical knowledge preferred. If you are a detail oriented safe driver and a vehicle enthusiast, this is the perfect position for you.
Shift hours:
1st shift: 6:00 am to 2:00 pm
2nd shift: 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm
3rd Shift: 10:00pm to 6:00 am
Qualifications Requirements:
• Minimum five years licensed driving experience
• Available to work 5 days a week, Monday through Friday. Saturdays might be implanted in future testing
• Must be available to work any shift
• Must possess current Oregon Drivers License
• Must be able to drive both manual and automatic transmission vehicles well
• Must be able to lift at least 25 pounds
• High school graduate or equivalent required
• All candidates will be required to pass a DOT physical, drug screen and driving test
Additional desired qualifications:
. Strong technical and mechanical aptitude highly preferred
• Familiar with current trends in automotive industry including alternative fuel vehicles; Hybrids, fuel cell etc.
• Ability to learn and operate new vehicle features (Ex: GPS, Navigation, Infotainment systems, etc...)
• Attention to detail with the ability to communicate finding both verbally and in writing
• Able to contribute to a team environment

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