SECOND SHIFT: Contract Autonomous Vehicle Safety Driver

As MOIA America, we develop and realize fully autonomous mobility and transportation services. Our mission is to make mobility-and transportation-as-a-service safe, accessible and most attractive for society. For that, we cover the entire ground from strategy and business development, software development and end-2-end integration, fleet operations to next-generation self-driving systems. Being the driver in Volkswagen Group initiative for mobility solutions, we’re an integral part of Volkswagen Group's future success.

About the role

An AVSD (Autonomous Vehicle Safety Driver) is responsible for operating autonomous vehicles on public roads in Self-Driving mode and in manual mode to enable the continuation of testing, monitoring, and development of the AVS (autonomous vehicle system). The role involves giving feedback to the software development teams on disengagements of the system and the connected situation via voice recording while driving. The AVSD must continuously monitor traffic, road, environmental, and system status to promptly evaluate situations, react, and disengage the self-driving system to bring the vehicle into a safe mode and drive it manually.

This role is highly safety-relevant, as the AVSD is responsible for the safe operation of a self-driving vehicle. Prior to operating an AV, all safety drivers undergo a rigorous training program covering vehicle components, underlying technology, and safe driving techniques exercised on public roads daily. After successfully completing training, AVSDs will operate on public roads. The role collaborates with Fleet Operations Managers and Test Engineers to continuously improve autonomous driving performance based on feedback.

Local candidates only. Must have a valid US passport and a completely clean DMV report. You must submit a current DMV report with your application.

Responsibilities

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

Requirements

• Years of Relevant Experience:
  • 3-5 years of experience operating a vehicle with a clean driving record (zero accidents, tickets, or points).
  • 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 specific prototype permit for operations (obtained upon hire).
  • Ability to pass motor vehicle and criminal record background checks, as well as drug screens in accordance with applicable law.
  • Attention to detail and sound judgment for handling public road testing.
  • Professional and courteous demeanor at all times.
  • Flexible mindset to test new workflows and logistics pertaining to commercial pilot operations.
  • Strong interest in technology and software, with the ability to adapt to evolving developments.
• Specialized Skills:
  • Required:
    • 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.
  • Desired:
    • Desire to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment where adaptability and flexibility are essential.
    • Desire to learn more about autonomous vehicle technology and run specific tests.
    • Basic technical knowledge of complete vehicle components and functions.
• 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. 3pm - 10:30 pm).