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Vehicle Test Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Be Seen First

You'll be on the road operating instrumented test vehicles for one of our OEM partners, capturing the multi-terabyte sensor datasets (LiDAR, radar, cameras, prototype hardware) that train the next ...

Be Seen First

You'll be on the road operating instrumented test vehicles for one of our OEM partners, capturing the multi-terabyte sensor datasets (LiDAR, radar, cameras, prototype hardware) that train the next ...

Role Overview As a Vehicle Test Operator , you will be responsible for operating test vehicles, collecting data, and providing detailed feedback on performance and environmental conditions. You may ...

Role Overview As a Vehicle Test Operator , you will be responsible for operating test vehicles, collecting data, and providing detailed feedback on performance and environmental conditions. You may ...

Role Overview As a Vehicle Test Operator , you will be responsible for operating test vehicles, collecting data, and providing detailed feedback on performance and environmental conditions. You may ...

Role Overview As a Vehicle Test Operator , you will be responsible for operating test vehicles, collecting data, and providing detailed feedback on performance and environmental conditions. You may ...

Role Overview As a Vehicle Test Operator , you will be responsible for operating test vehicles, collecting data, and providing detailed feedback on performance and environmental conditions. You may ...

Role Overview As a Vehicle Test Operator , you will be responsible for operating test vehicles, collecting data, and providing detailed feedback on performance and environmental conditions. You may ...

Test Operator

Frederick, MD · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

... launched vehicles. We approach each project understanding that achieving the highest quality ... Test Operators will test electronic products and systems for electrical function and reliability in ...

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Vehicle Test Operator information

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How much do vehicle test operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 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 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 are Vehicle Test Operators?

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, and why are they important?

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 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.

More about Vehicle Test Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Vehicle Test Operator jobs? Cities with the most Vehicle Test Operator job openings:
What states have the most Vehicle Test Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Vehicle Test Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Vehicle Test Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Vehicle Test Operator jobs are:

Autonomous vehicle Test Operator

TSMG

Phoenix, AZ

$18 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Company description
 
Terry Soot Management Group (TSMG) is a field data collection company founded in 2017 in Europe. 
 
We collect data where automation is not possible. We count features, take pictures, make videos, record speech, and scan areas for every detail you need to make more informed decisions. Our field data collection teams are spread across Europe and North America, ready to accept new challenges.
 
Role Overview:
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 service to the general public.
Eligibility:
  • Must be at least twenty-one (21) years old, possess a valid Class C  driver's license, and have at least three (3) years of experience as a Class C licensed driver to operate Class C vehicles.
Key responsibilities:
  • Operate/Drive autonomous vehicles on both defined and undefined routes, including a variety of environmental conditions - driving (some manual driving but primarily monitoring the vehicle's behavior in autonomous mode) and (ii) software monitoring and logging responsibilities and providing verbal feedback/directions about the autonomous vehicles (AV) environment.
  • Test other aspects of our autonomous vehicles
  • Complete timely and detailed ride reports for our operations and engineering teams
  • Must be able to work specific shifts, including early mornings, evenings, and/or weekends, as well as overnight shifts 
  • Maintain high standard of safety, inside and outside of the vehicle.
Necessary skills:
  • Proficiency with a laptop and Office apps (i.e., Gmail, Sheets and Docs)
  • Proficiency using a handheld device/touchscreen smartphone 
  • Must have good attention to detail and be able to quickly and concisely describe their thoughts.
Physical requirements:
  • Occasional standing, walking, and long periods of sitting.
  • Use hands to finger; handle or feel; and talk or hear; climb stairs and/or ladders.
  • Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • Must be able to occasionally lift and/or move up to 45 pounds.
  • Must use close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • Most work is accomplished outdoors in a vehicle.
We would be happy to get to know you and your skills better and see how we can support each other's growth.

Please apply and let's meet!
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. 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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