Test Driver / Operator - Autonomous Vehicle

Job Title:
Autonomous Vehicle Data Collection Driver / Operator - San Francisco, CA

Location: San Francisco, CA, United States
Work Environment: In-person
Expected Pay: $28.00 USD per hour
Schedule: Full time (30 hours/week)
Assignment Length: Contract (No end date, Contract can continue depending on annual performance review)

Job Description

JH Careers is partnering with a leading technology company at the forefront of autonomous vehicle (AV) development to support real-world testing and innovation in self-driving technology.

We are hiring Vehicle Operators / Data Collection Drivers to play a pivotal role in gathering high-quality data from test vehicles. You'll operate equipped vehicles on public roads to collect critical sensor and performance data that directly improves AV systems and enables new product advancements.

Note: This is not driving a fully autonomous vehicle—you'll be in full control while supporting advanced testing protocols. This is a rare opportunity to join and help build the vehicle operations team from the ground up at a fast-growing AV tech leader. If you're a reliable, safety-focused driver with keen observation skills and interest in cutting-edge mobility tech, this contract role offers meaningful impact in a dynamic environment.

Available Shifts (select one set):

• Morning: 6:00 AM – 2:30 PM (Wed-Sun, Thur-Mon, or Sat-Wed)
• Afternoon/Evening: 2:00 PM – 10:30 PM (Tue-Sat, Wed-Sun, Thur-Mon, Fri-Tue, Sat-Wed, or Sun-Thu)

Key Responsibilities:

• Safely drive test vehicles 4–8 hours per day on assigned public routes, strictly adhering to all safety guidelines.
• Conduct daily pre- and post-drive vehicle inspections to verify roadworthiness, cleanliness, and report any issues.
• Use basic software interfaces (including Linux/command line tools) to initiate and monitor real-time data collection.
• Observe and accurately log road events, system behaviors, anomalies, and other relevant details.
• Provide clear written and verbal feedback to engineering teams to support continuous AV improvements.
• Support vehicle logistics tasks such as movement, maintenance scheduling, and secure storage.

Required Qualifications & Skills:

• Valid U.S. driver's license with a clean driving record.
• Proven ability to drive safely and comfortably for extended periods in varied conditions (traffic, weather, urban/highway).
• Basic comfort with Linux/command line operations (training provided for quick learners).
• Exceptional attention to detail, strong observational skills, and unwavering commitment to safety.
• Interest in autonomous vehicles, ADAS, or related tech is a strong plus (prior AV experience helpful but not required).
• Professional attitude, reliability, and ability to thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced tech setting.

Why This Role?
Contribute directly to the future of autonomous driving by collecting essential data that drives product enhancements and new innovations. Be one of the first operators in a growing vehicle operations group at an innovative AV company—gain hands-on exposure to advanced vehicle technology while working with talented engineers. Competitive hourly pay in a contract role with potential for impact and growth in the booming AV sector.

Ready to drive innovation? Apply now through JH Careers!