CDL A Driver - Autonomous Trucks

Job Description

Job Description

We are seeking dependable, skilled and safety-focused Autonomous Drivers to support the testing, validation, and operational readiness of advanced autonomous Class A commercial vehicles. In this role, you will serve as the primary safety operator, responsible for monitoring autonomous driving systems, maintaining full situational awareness, intervening when necessary, and providing high-quality operational feedback to engineering and safety teams.

The ideal candidate brings extensive CDL Class A experience, strong technical aptitude, and the ability to work in dynamic, fast-moving development environments. This position is a critical component of on-road autonomous operations and requires professionalism, discipline, and exceptional communication skills.

The ideal candidate will also be tech savvy and have at least 5 years of computer skills.

Full Time role with benefits offered after completing 60 days of employment.

Monday - Friday scheduling (shift times may vary depending on test parameters)

Overnight Shift: 12:00am - 8:00am (scheduling start time may vary between 8pm-12am)

Key Responsibilities

Autonomous & Manual Vehicle Operation

• Safely operate and oversee autonomous commercial vehicles on designated test routes, intervening or assuming manual control when required.
• Maintain continuous attention and situational awareness during all autonomous operations.
• Support specialized test procedures, including system checks, route validations, and event-specific evaluations.
• Perform drop-and-hook operations, yard moves, backing/docking, and coupling/uncoupling of tractor-trailer combinations.

Pre-Trip, In-Route & Post-Trip Requirements

• Conduct thorough vehicle safety inspections per DOT, OEM, and site-specific protocols.
• Document vehicle performance, disengagements, anomalies, near-misses, and environmental observations using standardized reporting templates and onboard systems.
• Ensure accuracy and completeness of logs, data entries, and operational records.

Technical & Reporting Responsibilities

• Utilize onboard data tools, GPS tracking systems, and diagnostic interfaces to support engineering and safety reporting.
• Communicate real-time route status, events, system observations, and safety concerns to the Control Center and engineering teams.
• Provide structured feedback after each route, including improvement opportunities, system behaviors, and operational insights.

Safety, Compliance & Training

• Maintain full compliance with DOT/FMCSA requirements, ELD regulations, site operating rules, and safety standards.
• Complete all required site-specific training, customer orientations, and company safety certifications before operating autonomous equipment.
• Adhere to PPE requirements, safety protocols, alcohol/drug policies, and operational readiness standards.
• Participate in incident reporting, near-miss documentation, and corrective action processes when required.
• Follow policies and procedures of both Kett Engineering and customer.

Teamwork & Communication

• Collaborate closely with engineering, safety, field operations, and Control Center teams.
• Communicate clearly and consistently across functions to ensure safe, successful execution of test plans.
• Support a culture of continuous improvement, operational discipline, and safety excellence.
• Contribute to a positive work environment and promote overall team effort.
• Focus on meeting and exceeding Kett and customer expectations.
• Responsibilities involve a definite degree of skill, accuracy and cooperation.
• Possess a thorough understanding of Kett and customer policies and procedures and Kett’s Vision and Values.
• Ability to complete concise and accurate documentation.
• Promote safety awareness and assure compliance with all safety practices.
• Communication skills, verbal and written, are a priority.
• Must always present and communicate professionally.

Required Qualifications

• Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
• Minimum 5 years of recent Class A driving experience , preferably across regional and OTR environments.
• Clean and current Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) meeting DOT standards.
• Successful completion of DOT physical and ability to meet all DOT qualification requirements.
• Ability to work variable schedules, including nights and weekends, to support 24/7 operations.
• Ability to travel periodically to perform over the road testing and vehicle transfers.
• Ability to drive in adverse extreme weather conditions, including harsh winter conditions.
• Able to contribute in a team environment.
• Must be willing to travel as needed.
• Must be flexible and available travel as required .
• Must be able to pass the pre-employment drug and background screens.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in vehicle testing, OEM validation, fleet technology trials, or advanced vehicle systems development.
• Familiarity with autonomous driving systems, SAE Level 2–4 features, or advanced driver-assist technologies.
• Proficiency with ELDs, telematics systems, and in-cab technology platforms.
• Strong analytical skills, curiosity, and ability to recognize patterns or anomalies.
• Experience in mixed-traffic environments, including highway, local, and urban settings.
• Passport preferred for potential travel requirements.

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Ability to sit for prolonged periods (up to 2+ hours at a time) during on-road testing.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or move items up to 50 lbs.
• Comfortable working outdoors in varied weather conditions, including heat, dust, rain, or uneven terrain.
• Work in environments with varying noise levels (proving grounds, garages, active roadways).

Schedule Expectations

• Some roles require overnight or variable shift work to support around-the-clock testing and operations.
• Must be flexible to participate in rotating shift schedules depending on pilot phases and operational needs.
• Travel may be required for training, testing events, or remote operations support.

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!