Test Vehicle Operator

Job Description

Job Description

The Nevada Automotive Test Center (NATC) is currently seeking talented candidates for a Test Vehicle Operator role at our Silver Springs, NV location. At NATC, our test vehicle operators work directly with a team intent on designing, manufacturing, and testing innovative automotive mobility solutions.

Founded in 1957, the Nevada Automotive Test Center (NATC) is a privately owned, independent test, evaluation, design and engineering facility offering development and certification testing to customers worldwide. We have substantial international experience, which allows us to evaluate products intended for global markets knowledgeably and objectively. NATC has compiled an extensive database of worldwide operational and infrastructure conditions allowing accurate definition of user duty cycles and creation of test programs that are representative of service environments around the world. NATC is a leading innovator in translating real world conditions into validated virtual proving ground simulation and virtual prototyping.

NATC's location in the great basin of Nevada allows our engineers to access terrain that can represent 85% of the world within a 150 mile radius, providing an excellent test bed for off-road mobility. NATC's operational area includes 1200 sq. miles of natural terrain, that when coupled with 6,200 acres of privately owned test courses, create an unparalleled testing area available to our engineers to innovate and solve our customers problems. From motorcycles to M1 tanks to weapons systems to electrified autonomous vehicles, NATC has completed thousands of test programs as a one-stop shop for automotive development.

Position Summary:
Operates commercial and military, wheeled and tracked vehicles over a variety of on and off-road test courses. Performs a variety of duties in conjunction with the operation, test and repair, or modification of various vehicles undergoing engineering and development tests.

Essential Functions:
1. Operates test vehicles in a safe, responsible manner in accordance with Nevada State Traffic Laws and test requirements.
2. Operates vehicles over such courses as gravel, mud, sand, Belgian Block, concrete, frame twisters, wash board, cross country, marshes, swamps, water courses, slopes and vertical walls.
3. Perform tests in the field.
4. Collects test data by reading gauges and recording temperature, pressure, fuel and amperage.
5. Records engine readings in various gear ranges to determine vehicle performance.
6. Records acceleration and deceleration characteristics, etc.
7. Makes visual and functional checks of vehicle prior to, during, and at the end of operation.
8. Periodically inspects vehicle and components, noting any failures, malfunctions or other observations that may be helpful.
9. Submits completed test data log with all pertinent information.
10. Performs vehicle maintenance in the field while on test courses as directed.
11. Remove or repair major components such as tires.
12. Responsible for enforcement of the Company's Safety Plan and that safe work practices are followed.

Marginal Functions:
1. Review data downloaded to ensure accuracy.
2. Assist shop personnel with minor mechanical adjustments as required.
3. Perform dispatcher duties as required.
4. Perform course maintenance when needed.
5. Clean and detail, weigh and measure vehicle for pre and post test baselines and for return to manufacturer.
6. Support tire testing as required.
7. To perform tests in the field and in extreme temperature and/or environmental conditions.
8. Other duties as assigned.

Starting Pay: $20/hour