Vehicle Test Driver

Vehicle Test Driver

The Vehicle Test Driver operates pre-production and production test vehicles on designated test tracks and public roads to support advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and vehicle development programs. This role focuses on safe, professional driving while executing defined test use cases, collecting data, and performing basic vehicle inspections and documentation. The position offers the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge ADAS technology in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Drive pre-production and production test vehicles on test tracks, approved highways, and interstates in a professional and non-aggressive manner.
• Maintain constant attention to road conditions, traffic, surroundings, and test instructions while operating test vehicles.
• Adhere strictly to all local traffic laws and regulations in the jurisdictions where you operate the vehicles.
• Follow all safety and security procedures related to vehicle testing and data collection.
• Operate test vehicles safely in various weather conditions, including inclement weather.
• Execute defined test use cases on public roads or test tracks to support data collection and validation activities.
• Perform vehicle inspections during assigned shifts and complete all required records and checklists for test vehicles.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and orderly test vehicle in alignment with 5S principles.
• Create and submit test vehicle incident reports using electronic forms when needed.
• Monitor and maintain vehicle fuel levels and coordinate refueling as required.
• Coordinate with fleet management to schedule and support maintenance, repairs, and general operating condition of test vehicles.
• Use GPS devices and maps to follow designated routes and test paths accurately.
• Lift and handle equipment or components up to 50 pounds as needed for testing activities.
• Use Microsoft Office and other software tools to document tests, complete reports, and communicate findings.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 5 years of licensed driving experience with a clean motor vehicle record, including no major traffic citations, accidents, or suspensions in the past 3 years.
• Hands-on experience working with vehicles and the ability to troubleshoot and fix simple electrical issues.
• Basic understanding of vehicle mechanics and automotive systems.
• Completion of driver training to an appropriate level for professional vehicle operation.
• Ability to read and interpret maps and use GPS devices to follow designated routes.
• Ability to lift at least 50 pounds to support testing activities.
• Capability to work effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced team environment.
• Ability to complete electronic incident forms and documentation via computer or tablet.
• Proficiency with the Microsoft Office suite.
• Comfort driving and working in various weather conditions, including inclement weather.
• Strong focus on safety, attention to detail, and adherence to procedures.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Tier 2 Driver Certificate.
• Trailer towing experience and familiarity with operating vehicles while towing.
• Possession of a chauffeur or commercial driver's license (CDL).
• Experience in motorsport environments.
• Experience with software-based ADAS tools and related testing software.
• Exposure to vehicle electronics and software testing.
• Interest in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and emerging automotive technologies.
• Strong communication skills to report issues, incidents, and test observations clearly.

Work Environment

The role is based out of an office in the Southfield area, with daily driving and test activities conducted across the Metro Detroit region. The position may require occasional travel out of state for testing assignments. Work schedules can include evenings and weekends, so flexibility with hours is essential. You will spend a significant portion of your time driving on public roads and test tracks in a variety of weather conditions, including inclement weather. The environment is fast-paced and team-oriented, with frequent coordination with fleet management and technical staff. You will use computers, tablets, Microsoft Office, GPS devices, and ADAS-related software tools as part of daily tasks. Test vehicles and equipment must be kept clean and organized in line with 5S principles, and you will be expected to adhere to all safety protocols and operational procedures while on the road and at the facility.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Southfield, MI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $28.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Southfield, MI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 5, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.