Autonomous Vehicle Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Autonomous Vehicle Operator (AVO)

Location: Grand Rapids, MN, US

Pay: $23.00 per hour

Schedule: Part-Time (12–15 hours/week minimum); flexible weekday day/evening shifts; must work at least one weekend shift (Sat or Sun)

Type: Contract (Requires completion of online training and in-vehicle certification)

Help shape the future of self-driving cars — while getting paid to drive.

Ever wondered what it's actually like to work on autonomous vehicle technology? Here's your chance to be in the driver's seat — literally. We're looking for Autonomous Vehicle Operators (AVOs) to monitor, evaluate, and support live passenger service and testing operations.

This role isn't traditional driving. It's a blend of real-time technical oversight, safety intervention readiness, detailed event reporting, and rider-facing professionalism. You won't just be operating a vehicle — you'll be the critical human feedback loop that helps engineers make autonomous technology safer and smarter every single day. If you love technology, safety, and being part of something genuinely new, this is a rare seat to have.

What your day looks like:

• Actively monitor autonomous vehicle behavior in real time to ensure safe operation in dynamic traffic environments
• Maintain constant readiness to disengage autonomy and assume manual control whenever conditions require
• Log unexpected vehicle behaviors accurately and concisely to support engineering reviews and system improvements
• Serve as a professional representative for passengers, answering rider questions confidently and ensuring a safe, smooth journey from pickup to drop-off
• Work flexible assigned shifts that fit your schedule, including early mornings, evenings, or weekends

What we're looking for:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid driver's license with 3+ years of driving experience and a clean driving record
• Strong safety mindset with the ability to remain vigilant, attentive, and conservative during extended monitoring periods
• Comfortable using technical systems, mobile devices, and digital reporting tools
• Clear, calm, and concise communication skills, especially in dynamic situations
• Ability to pass a background check, Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check, and drug screen (including THC)
• Ability to successfully complete paid online training and an in-vehicle certification program prior to full deployment

Nice to have:

• High attention to detail with an organized, methodical approach to documenting daily observations
• Coachable, adaptable, and quick to learn through structured evaluations
• Physical capability to lift up to 30 lbs regularly and comfortably assist passengers in wheelchairs (including pushing a wheelchair up a vehicle ramp)

What's in it for you:

• Paid training and certification program
• Flexible part-time hours to fit your schedule
• Direct hands-on experience with cutting-edge autonomous vehicle technology

The fine print: This is a contracted role with training requirements including a 4–5 hour self-paced online course (to be finished within one week) followed by five consecutive weekdays of onsite training (offered 8:00 AM–12:00 PM or 1:00 PM–5:00 PM). Completion of all training and certification is required before beginning regular operational shifts.