Autonomous Systems Vehicle Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Company Overview

Kett Engineering is a well-established company with over 70 years of experience, specializing in automotive testing and development. Our team supports leading automotive manufacturers and Tier-1 suppliers by managing and staffing durability test programs across various testing facilities worldwide.

Job Summary

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.

Anticipated Shifts:

1st shift: 6:00am - 2:30pm

2nd shift: 5:00pm - 1:30am

Essential Functions

• 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.

Job Requirements

• At least one year of prior autonomous vehicle (AV) testing experience.
• 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 active points on motor vehicle report in the past 3 years.
• Willingness to undergo continuous Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) monitoring.
• Minimum age of 21 years.
• Ability to maintain focus while operating or monitoring autonomous vehicles independently or with a partner for 6–8 hours per day.
• 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).

Critical Skills

• Safety- Abides by, promotes and acknowledges all safety practices in keeping with high safety standards.
• Communications- Must provide information and receive feedback in a concise, accurate, and detailed manner.
• Dependability- Display ability to successfully and satisfactorily complete assigned tasks.
• Cooperation- Exhibit characteristics of an effective team member focused on a common goal, promotes the development of like qualities in others.
• Initiative and Resourcefulness- Possess initiative to take effective action, anticipate needs and perform in accordance to resources provided.
• Flexibility- Must be willing and able to expand the scope of responsibilities as dependent upon requirements of the business environment.
• Commitment- Able to accept assigned tasks with a quality result as an objective.
• Dedication- Demonstrate the ability to consistently perform all responsibilities with integrity.
• Role Model- Serve as an example for Kett’s Vision and Values.
• Result Oriented- Accomplish performance targets established by Kett and the customer.

Application Question(s):

• Do you have at least one year of autonomous vehicle testing experience?

Work Location: In person

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!

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.\r\n\r\nThe 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.\r\n\r\nIf 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!