Prototype Driver, Vehicle Test

We are currently seeking a Prototype Driver, Vehicle Test.  You will be responsible for driving prototype and pre-production vehicles and documenting vehicle behavior in support of departmental engineering tests. This role reports to our Supervisor, Vehicle Test.

Our ideal candidate exhibits a can-do attitude and approaches his or her work with vigor and determination. Candidates will be expected to demonstrate excellence in their respective fields, to possess the ability to learn quickly and to strive for perfection within a fast-paced environment.

The Role:

We are looking for precision test drivers who can follow detailed test plans for the vehicle under normal driving conditions. This is not a performance or race driving oriented role.

Test drive and evaluate test vehicles on ‘real world’ driving situations on test routes/tracks, conduct safety inspections, perform specialized test procedures and document findings on driver reports in a clear and concise manner

• Recreate driving scenario in controlled and field tests and provide feedback to engineering team
• Perform vehicle checks, maintenance and keep vehicle prepared for field testing daily
• Manual data collection and driving including mapping drives and final data verification drives
• Specifically, our Vehicle Test Drivers will be responsible for driving prototype vehicles on various public and private roads in order to obtain data and troubleshoot technical issues
• The Test Drivers are valuable contributors, providing necessary feedback to our engineering team in order to advance this cutting-edge technology
• You will be joining a team that regularly performs above expectations, please be prepared to help uphold that standard.
• Some test patterns are designed to heavily stress the vehicle and in turn can challenge driving ability and taxing on your body.
• Some International travel may be required.
• Day to day job can be dynamic, routines vary greatly.

Qualifications: 

• Previous professional driving or testing experience required. Please include any personal hobby/enthusiast driving on your resume.
• Valid US driver's license with at least 7 years of driving experience and a clean driving record (DMV record will be obtained)
• Must be able to demonstrate safe driving in all weather conditions, including rain
• Safety Sensitive position requiring all persons assigned to activity be drug free
• Able to drive for prolonged periods routinely exceeding eight or more hours
• Must be willing to work flexible hours including weekends and possible overtime.
• Must have good vision, hearing and motor skills. Alertness and good driving instinct to monitor automated vehicle performance and supervision
• Proficient computer skills and ability to operate GPS
• Must demonstrate the ability to communicate clearly both written and orally
• Exceptional ability and desire to learn new skills and tools. Ability to apply oneself in new problems in a dynamic lean start-up environment
• Work night shift when there is a need
• 25% travel

Education:

• AA/AS degree, any field; or, demonstrated communication, analytic, mathematical, and reasoning skills consistent with an AA/AS degree

Advantageous:

• Credentials for operating vehicles at an OEM/Supplier automotive proving ground highly preferred
• Enrollment in DMV Pull Notice Program is a nice-to-have
• Professional / Amateur Race team experience
• CDL holder