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Vehicle Test Operator Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Test Track Operator

West Plains, MO · On-site

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

Follow Test Documents * Production Acceptance Tests - Functional verifications * Design ... Heavy vehicle maintenance and tools. Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS.

Test Track Operator

West Plains, MO · On-site

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

Follow Test Documents * Production Acceptance Tests - Functional verifications * Design ... Heavy vehicle maintenance and tools. Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS.

Staff Flight Test Engineer

California, MO · On-site

$173.70 - $219/hr

The role involves developing flight test program strategies as well as execution of both ... vehicles in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.

Operator

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

Maintain daily pre-shift vehicle and equipment inspections * Perform regular maintenance and ... Pre-employment medical fit-for-duty test; hold/obtain DOT medical card * Join and maintain Union ...

Operator

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

Maintain daily pre-shift vehicle and equipment inspections * Perform regular maintenance and ... Pre-employment medical fit-for-duty test; hold/obtain DOT medical card * Join and maintain Union ...

Senior Content Producer

California, MO · On-site

$100 - $150/hr

The next, you could be at a remote test site capturing a major vehicle test. You might spend the ... Work closely with engineers and operators to turn technical work into stories people can understand ...

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Vehicle Test Operator information

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.

What cities in Missouri are hiring for Vehicle Test Operator jobs?

Cities in Missouri with the most Vehicle Test Operator job openings:

Test Track Operator

Leonardo DRS

West Plains, MO • On-site

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 hours ago


Leonardo DRS rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

86th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job ID: 115096 

Your future starts here!  Kick off 2026 with a career that makes a difference at Leonardo DRS in West Plains, MO. We're growing and actively hiring for multiple openings across a variety of roles. If you're motivated, ready to learn, and eager to make an impact, we want to hear from you. Explore our open positions and apply today: https://www.leonardodrs.com/careers

The Leonardo DRS Land Systems business is a recognized leader in the design and integration of complex technologies into new and legacy systems and platforms for global military and commercial customers. We are a 6 year running Top Workplace in the Greater St. Louis area.  

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Job Summary
Job Responsibilities
  • Operate Aircraft Cargo Loaders.
    • Tunner and Halvorsen
  • Maintain both types of Loaders
    • Mechanical
    • Hydraulic
    • Electrical
  • Operate Test Dock - Loading / Unloading Cargo Pallets
  • Follow Test Documents
    • Production Acceptance Tests - Functional verifications
    • Design Verification Tests
  • Follow Assembly and Maintenance instructions
    • Manufacturing Instruction Sets (MIS)
    • Air Force Technical Orders - Maintenance Instructions
  • Work closely with Design Engineers, Test Engineers, and Test Technicians instructions
  • Provide operational feedback to Technicians
Job Responsibilities Part II
Qualifications
  • Quality, Integrity, and Safety minded individual with attention to detail.
  • Team environment.
  • System experience a plus.
  • Driver experience a plus.
  • Heavy vehicle maintenance and tools.

Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS. We are proud to offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well-being. We develop our talent by offering programs and activities to support career-growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. And we understand there is more to life than work, and the importance of offering flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave, and community service hours. 
*Some employees are eligible for limited benefits only

Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

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What Leonardo DRS employees say

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About Leonardo DRS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instruments manufacturing and communications equipment manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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