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Vehicle Validation Engineer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

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Operating at the intersection of hands-on vehicle testing and systems engineering, this role is ... Must hold a valid Driver's License in the state of residence. * Clean driving record: No ...

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Operating at the intersection of hands-on vehicle testing and systems engineering, this role is ... Must hold a valid Driver's License in the state of residence. * Clean driving record: No ...

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The Engineering Technician will play a key role in real-world vehicle validation, product testing, defect documentation, hardware and software integration, and pre-release support. This position ...

Vehicle Quality Engineer

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$70K - $91K/yr

Support validation/testing activities as needed (fit/function checks, failure analysis, and ... engineering within PTV/golf carts, powersports, automotive, or a related vehicle/equipment industry

Autonomous test specialist

Miami, FL · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

... engineers to accelerate development, testing, and validation workflows. You will own the creation of simulation scenarios, manage vehicle testing activities, and serve as the first line of triage for ...

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$73K - $117K/yr

Design and develop mechanical components, assemblies, and systems for heavy-duty vehicles ... Hands-on mechanical aptitude with experience testing, troubleshooting, and validating engineering ...

We support vehicle testing, development, personnel management, and staffing for leading automotive ... Must have a valid driver's license and/or Real ID or any other documentation to travel within the ...

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Vehicle Validation Engineer information

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$16

$38

$58

How much do vehicle validation engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for vehicle validation engineer in Florida is $38.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.47 and $47.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do vehicle validation engineers make good money?

Vehicle validation engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary by industry, experience, and location. They often require knowledge of testing procedures, quality standards, and tools like MATLAB or CAN protocols, which can influence earning potential. Overall, the role offers solid compensation within automotive and transportation sectors.

What does a vehicle validation engineer do?

A Vehicle Validation Engineer is responsible for testing and verifying that vehicles meet all required safety, performance, and regulatory standards before they go to market. They design and execute test plans, analyze data, and collaborate with design and manufacturing teams to identify and resolve any issues. Their work ensures that vehicles are reliable, safe, and function as intended under various conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by vehicle validation engineers during the testing phase?

Vehicle Validation Engineers often encounter challenges such as tight project timelines, rapidly evolving technology, and the need to coordinate tests across multiple departments. They must ensure that vehicles meet stringent safety, performance, and regulatory standards while adapting quickly to unexpected test results or component issues. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential for addressing these challenges and collaborating with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to implement solutions efficiently.

What is the difference between Vehicle Validation Engineer vs Vehicle Test Engineer?

AspectVehicle Validation EngineerVehicle Test Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Electrical Engineering; certifications like ISTQB or SAE are commonBachelor's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Electrical Engineering; similar certifications often required
Work EnvironmentDesigning validation plans, analyzing data, ensuring vehicle complianceConducting tests, operating testing equipment, recording test results
Industry UsageUsed in automotive manufacturing, OEMs, and suppliers for validation phasesUsed in testing labs, manufacturing plants, and R&D departments

Vehicle Validation Engineers focus on validating vehicle systems through analysis and testing to ensure compliance and performance, while Vehicle Test Engineers primarily conduct physical tests and operate testing equipment. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, often working closely within automotive development teams to ensure vehicle quality and safety.

Are vehicle validation engineers in demand?

Vehicle validation engineers are in demand due to the growing automotive industry and the shift toward electric and autonomous vehicles. They are needed to ensure safety, compliance, and performance standards, often requiring skills in testing, data analysis, and familiarity with industry regulations. Job prospects are strong in regions with advanced manufacturing and automotive research centers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a vehicle validation engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vehicle Validation Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, strong analytical skills, and experience with vehicle testing and validation processes. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, data acquisition systems, and relevant industry standards or certifications, such as ISO or Six Sigma, is typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help you collaborate effectively and deliver accurate results. These skills are crucial for ensuring vehicle safety, quality, and compliance with regulatory standards during the development process.
Infographic showing various Vehicle Validation Engineer job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 39% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,821 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

Autonomous Systems Validation Operator

Kett Engineering

Miami, FL • On-site

$24 - $27/hr

Temporary

Posted yesterday

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Job description

Kett Engineering is working with a major EV manufacturer, and we are hiring multiple Autonomous Systems Validation Operators on 1st and 2nd shift in Miami, FL. This is an extended data collection and validation project and excellent opportunity to engage with where autonomous vehicle technology is going.

Role Overview

The Autonomous Systems Validation Operator plays a critical role in the development, testing, and safety validation of advanced self-driving and autonomous vehicle technology. Operating at the intersection of hands-on vehicle testing and systems engineering, this role is responsible for driving, evaluating, and troubleshooting prototype vehicles equipped with cutting-edge autonomous software and hardware suites.

You will execute precise test procedures across public roads and private testing tracks, gather crucial data streams for engineering analysis, and provide detailed operational feedback to accelerate the deployment of safe autonomous driving features.

Key Responsibilities

  • Safely operate prototype test vehicles in autonomous, semi-autonomous, and manual modes across diverse traffic, road, and weather conditions for up to 8 hours daily.
  • Maintain constant vigilance and situational awareness; execute safety protocols and intervene or manual disengage seamless when necessary to ensure complete vehicle safety.
  • Perform pre-defined autonomous test cases, edge-case evaluations, and specialized driving scenarios on both public roads and closed-course test facilities.
  • Identify, isolate, and debug hardware, software, and sensor platform anomalies using system diagnostic tools.
  • Work directly with hardware and software engineering teams to communicate system behavior, reproduce edge cases, and escalate critical issues via online ticketing systems.
  • Manage onboard logging equipment, record system performance data, and verify data transfer for engineering analysis.
  • Perform and verify Over-The-Air software updates and system flashes across vehicle ECUs and autonomous control units.
  • Conduct vehicle pre-trip inspections, basic system checks, and sensor calibration/setup prior to test routes.
  • Compose clear, concise, and thorough post-drive reporting, operational logs, and safety feedback for cross-functional stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Must hold a valid Driver's License in the state of residence.
  • Clean driving record: No suspensions/revocations within the last 3–5 years.
  • No drug or alcohol-related driving incidents within the last 3 years.
  • No more than 1 serious moving violation within the last 3 years.
  • Willingness to undergo continuous Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) monitoring.
  • Minimum age of 21 years.
  • Prior professional automotive driving, vehicle fleet operations, or autonomous vehicle (AV) testing experience.
  • Ability to maintain focus while operating or monitoring autonomous vehicles independently or with a partner for 6–8 hours per day.
  • Ability to travel up to 50% for off-site field testing and trips.
  • Flexibility to work overtime, non-standard shifts, or weekends as needed.
  • Proficiency with laptops, smartphones, and collaboration software (Google Docs, Sheets, Maps).
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to concisely articulate technical events and system anomalies.
  • Sound judgment, strong organizational skills, and composure in high-stress or fast-paced testing environments.
  • Ability to lift and maneuver up to 50 lbs.

Bonus Skills

  • Hands-on experience with Jira or equivalent engineering ticketing platforms.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in troubleshooting, flashing, and debugging embedded automotive software and CAN/hardware networks.
  • Experience operating 16 ft+ commercial vehicles, medium-duty trucks, or large fleet platforms.
  • Valid Class A or Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL).

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!