CONTRACT: Autonomous Vehicle Safety Driver | Second shift | ORLANDO, FL - LOCAL CANDIDATES ONLY

About the role

As an Autonomous Vehicle Safety Driver (AVSD), you will operate autonomous vehicles on public roads in both Self-Driving and manual modes to enable testing, monitoring, and development of the autonomous vehicle system (AVS). You will provide feedback to software development teams on system disengagements and related situations via voice recording while driving. The role is highly safety-relevant, requiring continuous monitoring of traffic, road conditions, and system status to ensure safe operation.

Prior to operating an AV, all safety drivers undergo a rigorous training program covering vehicle components, underlying technology, and safe driving techniques. After training, AVSDs will operate on public roads, collaborating with Fleet Operations Managers and Test Engineers to improve autonomous driving performance.

Responsibilities

• In-Vehicle Driving (80% of time):
  • Safely operate an AV through diverse traffic conditions for extended periods, including both Self-Driving and manual modes.
  • Perform tests of software, hardware, interfaces, and instrumentation while in the vehicle.
  • Continuously evaluate traffic, road, and system situations to disengage the self-driving system and manually operate the vehicle when necessary.
  • Monitor vehicle movements and provide detailed daily feedback.
  • Proactively monitor software performance via a proprietary Graphical User Interface (GUI) tablet integrated with the AVS.
  • Record disengagements and related situations via voice recording.
  • Monitor testing equipment, devices, and software to ensure compliance with testing and reporting requirements.
  • Perform pre- and post-mission tasks, including startup procedures and vehicle inspections.
  • Daily cleaning of vehicles to maintain a neat and orderly condition.
  • Identify and address potential safety risks while adhering to and promoting all safety practices.
• Training and Continued Education (10% of time):
  • Undergo a detailed training program covering manual driving fundamentals and autonomous vehicle operation.
  • Participate in continuing education as autonomous driving processes and practices evolve.
• Software Feedback (10% of time):
  • Brief and debrief driving behavior to Autonomous Vehicle and testing teams.
  • Deliver clear and concise communications evaluating AVS performance, documenting strengths and areas for improvement to aid software development.

Requirements

• Experience:
  • 3-5 years of experience operating a vehicle with a clean driving record.
  • 2 years of stable employment experience.
  • Autonomous vehicle experience preferred.
  • Professional driving experience preferred.
• Education:
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent (required).
  • Associate or Bachelor’s Degree preferred.
• Skills:
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to meet Volkswagen Group of America’s safety driving standards, including obtaining a prototype permit upon hire.
  • Ability to pass motor vehicle and criminal record background checks, drug screens, and additional third-party screenings.
  • Attention to detail and sound judgment for public road testing.
  • Professional and courteous demeanor.
  • Flexible mindset to adapt to new workflows and logistics in commercial pilot operations.
  • Strong interest in technology and software, with adaptability to evolving developments.
• Specialized Skills:
  • Detail-oriented mindset with a focus on safety, honesty, and strict adherence to protocols.
  • Ability to monitor vehicle behavior in a moving vehicle and annotate clearly and concisely.
  • Ability to anticipate critical traffic, system, and road situations to disengage the self-driving system and safely operate the vehicle manually.
  • Self-motivation for independent troubleshooting work in the vehicle.
  • Desire to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment where adaptability and flexibility are essential.
  • Desire to learn about autonomous vehicle technology and run specific tests.
  • Basic technical knowledge of complete vehicle components and functions (desired).
• Work Flexibility:
  • Physically able to drive a vehicle for extended periods.
  • Ready and able to travel (international and domestic) to remote offices, training facilities, or other testing cities if needed.
  • Ability to adhere to a flexible work schedule, including multiple shifts. Currently hiring for second shift (approx. 3 pm - 10:30 pm).

Schedule

This role is for the second shift, approximately 3 pm - 10:30 pm.