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Vehicle Test Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kett Engineering

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Vehicle Test Operator

Austin, TX · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

This takes the form of operating test vehicles statically, driving on public roads, or private test facilities, conducting safety inspections and performing specialized test procedures. Anticipated ...

Kett Engineering

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Vehicle Test Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

This takes the form of operating test vehicles statically, driving on public roads, or private test facilities, conducting safety inspections and performing specialized test procedures. Anticipated ...

Kett Engineering

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Vehicle Test Operator

Torrance, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

This takes the form of operating test vehicles statically, driving on public roads, or private test facilities, conducting safety inspections and performing specialized test procedures. Anticipated ...

Motional

Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator II

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

AV Test Operator II will support the business by working with Operations, Testing, Autonomy, Mapping, and System and Vehicle Integration Engineers to execute in-vehicle tests, refine test and ...

Motional

Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator II

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

AV Test Operator II will support the business by working with Operations, Testing, Autonomy, Mapping, and System and Vehicle Integration Engineers to execute in-vehicle tests, refine test and ...

TSMG

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

Dallas, TX · On-site

$18 - $22.25/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail ...

TSMG

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

Las Vegas, NV

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail ...

TSMG

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

Miami, FL

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail ...

TSMG

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

Atlanta, GA

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail ...

TSMG

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

Austin, TX

$18 - $22.25/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail ...

TSMG

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

San Francisco, CA

$21.50 - $26.50/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail ...

TSMG

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$20.75 - $25.50/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail ...

TSMG

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$20.75 - $25.50/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail ...

TSMG

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

New York, NY

$20 - $24.50/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail ...

TSMG

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

Miami, FL

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail ...

TSMG

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

Los Angeles, CA

$19.75 - $24.25/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail ...

TSMG

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

Phoenix, AZ

$18 - $22.25/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail ...

TSMG

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

San Francisco, CA

$21.50 - $26.50/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail ...

TSMG

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail ...

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Vehicle Test Operator information

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How much do vehicle test operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for vehicle test operator in the United States is $20.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a vehicle test operator?

Vehicle Test Operators are professionals responsible for testing vehicles, often under real-world or controlled conditions, to ensure they meet safety, performance, and quality standards. They may drive vehicles on test tracks or public roads, monitor systems, and collect data for engineers. Their work helps manufacturers identify issues and improve vehicle designs before mass production. Vehicle Test Operators play a critical role in the automotive development process, especially for new technologies like autonomous vehicles and electric cars.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a vehicle test operator?

To thrive as a Vehicle Test Operator, you need a valid driver’s license, a solid understanding of vehicle mechanics, and strong attention to safety protocols. Familiarity with data logging systems, diagnostic tools, and sometimes proprietary autonomous vehicle software is often required. Excellent observational skills, clear communication, and the ability to work independently make candidates stand out in this position. These skills and qualities ensure accurate vehicle testing, uphold safety standards, and support effective collaboration in the development process.

What are some common challenges faced by vehicle test operators during on-road testing, and how can they be managed?

Vehicle Test Operators often encounter challenges such as unpredictable road conditions, adapting to rapidly changing test protocols, and ensuring accurate data collection while maintaining safety standards. Managing these challenges involves thorough pre-test planning, clear communication with engineering teams, and staying attentive to both the vehicle's behavior and the surrounding environment. Operators must also be comfortable with technology, as many tests involve advanced driver-assist or autonomous systems that require quick troubleshooting and feedback.

What is the difference between Vehicle Test Operator vs Vehicle Inspector?

AspectVehicle Test OperatorVehicle Inspector
Required CertificationsDriver's license, safety trainingVehicle inspection certification, safety training
Work EnvironmentTest tracks, laboratories, testing facilitiesInspection stations, repair shops, testing sites
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive testing companies, manufacturersGovernment agencies, automotive service centers
Common Search & ComparisonVehicle Test OperatorVehicle Inspector

Both roles involve working with vehicles in testing or inspection environments. Vehicle Test Operators focus on conducting tests on vehicles to assess performance and safety, often requiring driving and safety certifications. Vehicle Inspectors primarily evaluate vehicle conditions for compliance and safety standards, often in inspection stations. While their environments and certifications overlap, their core responsibilities differ: testing vs. inspection.

How to become a vehicle test operator?

To become a vehicle test operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should have good mechanical skills and attention to detail. Relevant experience with vehicle systems or testing procedures can be beneficial, and some positions may require safety certifications or training on testing equipment. Strong communication skills and the ability to work in a team environment are also important.

What cities are hiring for Vehicle Test Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Vehicle Test Operator job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Vehicle Test Operator jobs?

The top employers for Vehicle Test Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Vehicle Test Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Vehicle Test Operator jobs include:

Vehicle Test Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vehicle Test Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 43% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,045 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Vehicle Test Operator

Kett Engineering

Austin, TX • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Temporary

Posted 10 days ago

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Job description

Job Description:

Kett Engineering's client is looking for 20+ Vehicle Operators for an autonomous vehicle data collection project.


In this role, you will be responsible for operating, driving, troubleshooting and evaluating client's prototype test vehicles and documenting product development feedback to our engineers. This takes the form of operating test vehicles statically, driving on public roads, or private test facilities, conducting safety inspections and performing specialized test procedures.


Anticipated Shifts:

1st shift: 6:00am - 2:30pm

2nd shift: 5:00pm - 1:30am


Responsibilities:

  • Safely operate test vehicles in a wide range of testing conditions up to 8 hours/day
  • Perform vehicle prep work, including basic vehicle inspections and diagnostics before and after driving
  • Troubleshoot hardware and software issues
  • Collect data via data acquisition systems
  • Complete clear, concise and detailed post drive reports and online tickets, working with and escalating to engineers as necessary
  • Assist with training of new vehicle operators
  • Additional work and tasks as needed by the team


Qualifications:

  • Prior professional automotive driving or autonomous vehicle experience
  • Self-motivated, organized and demonstrate good judgement in a fast-paced, high-stress environment
  • Attention to detail and able to describe events quickly and concisely
  • Good command of the English language with excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Proficiency in using a smartphone, laptop and Microsoft Office Suite
  • Ability to drive safely in all conditions and alone or with a partner for 6-8 hrs. a day
  • Must be flexible to work overtime as needed
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Must be able to pass an MVR (Motor Vehicle Record) background check and onsite road test examination


Bonus

  • Experience with Jira
  • Experience driving 16 ft or larger vehicles

Company Description

Established in 1953, Kett Engineering is a leader in the Automotive Test and Personnel Services industry. Our goal is to provide our Automotive and OEM customers with superior service.

The strength and success of Kett clearly comes from the people behind the organization. Our workforce is comprised of dedicated, talented and hard working individuals with years of industry experience.

If you have an interest in automotive technology industry, a passion for excellence and a desire to exceed expectations then, we want you on are our team!