Professional Test Driver

VinFast Auto is seeking a meticulous and observant Professional Test Driver to play a crucial role in evaluating the performance, reliability, and safety of our electric vehicles and buses. Based in Irvine, California, the Professional Test Driver will operate pre-production and production vehicles in various real-world and controlled environments, providing detailed feedback to engineering teams to ensure our vehicles meet the highest standards of quality and performance. This role requires excellent driving skills, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to accurately document observations to contribute to the development and validation of cutting-edge electric vehicles.

RESPONSIBILITIES & KEY ACTIVITIES:

• Inspect and verify the condition of vehicles/buses and all attached materials using standard checklists at the beginning and end of each shift.
• Drive test vehicles/buses to evaluate product performance, competitiveness, and readiness for customer usage.
• Achieve target mileage as defined by testing standards and project gate requirements.
• Simulate customer usage scenarios based on market insights and real-world driving conditions.
• Prepare detailed assessment reports and document all malfunctions, anomalies, or issues identified during evaluations.
• Understand vehicle features and identify engineering-related issues; capture logs and relevant data for accurate issue reporting.
• Perform basic vehicle/bus preparation tasks, including software updates, configurations, and health checks.
• Conduct competitor benchmarking to evaluate performance, features, and potential gaps.
• Support additional team activities and operational tasks between driving cycles as required.
• Perform maintenance tasks, light repairs, and maintain the cleanliness of vehicles/buses when needed.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Local candidates only; must be a permanent resident or US citizen.
• Graduate of Technical College or higher in Automotive Engineering, Mechanics, Electrical, or related fields
• Must possess a valid CDL Class A or B Commercial license with "P" endorsement for passenger bus operation.
• Minimum 5 years of on-road test driving experience across multiple OEMs, including bus OEMs.
• Demonstrated advanced driving skills with a clean driving record and strong defensive driving techniques.
• Strong understanding of driving behaviors, customer needs, market expectations, and vehicle competitiveness.
• Excellent analytical, reporting, presentation, and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge and experience with Data Acquisition Systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Eager to learn new skills and flexible to work various shifts.
• Readiness for travel as required.
• Ability to sit for extended periods while driving.
• Ability to enter and exit vehicles/buses frequently.
• Ability to perform occasional light physical tasks, such as checking fluid levels or tire pressure.

VinFast is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit and business need.