Autonomous Driving Test Operator

Motional’s Pittsburgh office is located in the new Hazelwood Green development, a culmination of the city’s goal of restoring an economic driver to the neighborhood in a thoughtful, inclusive, and sustainable way. With views along the Monongahela river, the Pittsburgh office is in the heart of this new state of the art development.

This role is based in our Pittsburgh office and requires in-office days each week.

We are hiring Autonomous Driving Test Operators to support Motional’s growing AV Test Operations team. In this role, you will play a key part in testing and validating autonomous vehicle technology in real-world driving environments. As an AV Test Operator, you will serve as the “eyes and ears” for engineering teams by safely operating autonomous vehicles, monitoring vehicle behavior, collecting and annotating data, and providing detailed feedback that helps improve vehicle performance and software development.

This role is ideal for individuals who prioritize safety, demonstrate strong attention to detail, communicate effectively, and thrive in a fast-paced and evolving technology environment.

Why Join Motional

At Motional, you’ll work alongside teams developing cutting-edge autonomous vehicle technology that is reshaping transportation. As a member of the AV Test Operations, your work will directly contribute to improving vehicle behavior, advancing software development, and delivering safer mobility solutions.

We value individuals who are adaptable, collaborative, detail-oriented, and excited to contribute in a rapidly evolving industry.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Safe Vehicle Operations: Safely operate prototype autonomous vehicles across diverse weather and traffic conditions while strictly adhering to all state/local traffic laws, signage, and company safety directives.
• Testing & Data Collection: Operate in-vehicle data systems, execute testing procedures, and document actionable feedback for engineering teams using tools like JIRA and Confluence.
• Vehicle Readiness: Conduct comprehensive pre- and post-trip inspections, support basic troubleshooting, and maintain the overall care, condition, and cleanliness of assigned vehicles.
• Incident Management: Respond promptly to unexpected situations or emergencies, complete detailed incident reports, and ensure professional interactions with passengers and the public.
• Team Collaboration & Professionalism: Work closely with cross-functional teams (engineers, leads, fellow operators), arrive punctually with all required driving credentials, and travel occasionally as needed.
• Vehicle Cleanliness & Upkeep: Maintain the cleanliness and professional presentation of assigned vehicles, including interior and exterior upkeep, to ensure they are clean, tidy, and ready for operation at all times.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Education & Experience: High school diploma (or GED equivalent) with a minimum of 5 years of licensed driving experience.
• Licensing & Driving Record: Valid Nevada State Driver’s License with an exceptional record (clean for the past 3 years, no DUIs within 10 years, and no at-fault injury accidents). Must successfully complete an in-house driving examination.
• Skills & Technology: Comfort using smartphones, navigation tools, and communication systems, combined with strong English communication and teamwork skills.
• Work Environment & Availability: Ability to remain calm, alert, and safety-focused in dynamic driving environments. Flexible to work varying schedules, including days, nights, and weekends.
• Preferred Qualifications: Prior experience providing subjective feedback on vehicle behavior and environmental conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience providing clear and concise subjective feedback on vehicle behavior and environmental conditions.
• Prior experience as an Operator/Driver for Autonomous Vehicles preferred, or completion of internal or external training related to autonomous vehicle technology.
• Experience working with NHTSA Levels 2–5 autonomous vehicle systems.
• Familiarity with technical tools and software such as Linux, JIRA, Confluence, GitLab, and/or Python.
• Experience collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to support operational or testing activities.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

• Must pass a standard DOT physical examination and drug screening prior to employment.
• Must be able to remain seated and operate a vehicle for up to 4 consecutive hours, and up to 10 hours per day.
• Maintain a high level of wakefulness, alertness, and attention to detail throughout the entire shift.
• Function adaptively as both a driver and a passenger within autonomous vehicle systems.
• Safely operate all vehicle controls and perform thorough vehicle inspections (including occasional under-vehicle checks).
• Meet strict visual acuity standards necessary for safe vehicle operation, encompassing near, distance, depth, and color perception.
• Must be able to lift and move up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Regular exposure to outdoor weather conditions, road environments, and vehicle/mechanical systems, with occasional exposure to fumes and airborne particles.
• Work environment noise levels are typically low to moderate.

Safety Requirements

This position is considered safety-sensitive and requires successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening and participation in random drug testing programs as permitted by law.

This role may require operating Motional fleet vehicles, including test vehicles, commercial vehicles, or pool vehicles.

Motional may require employees in this role to meet applicable public health and safety requirements consistent with federal, state, and local law, including reasonable accommodations where required.