Tactical Development Truck Operator

Aurora hires talented people with diverse backgrounds who are ready to help build a transportation ecosystem that will make our roads safer, get crucial goods where they need to go, and make mobility more efficient and accessible for all.  We are seeking a highly motivated CDL A professional to join our Autonomous Vehicle (AV) testing team. In this role, you aren’t just a driver—you are a vital part of our development process. You will operate Class 8 trucks equipped with cutting-edge self-driving technology to help us map, test, and build the future of transportation. This role is built for those who love the open road and is perfect for individuals comfortable with up to 90% travel.

We are currently hiring for multiple shifts at our Houston location. Please be prepared to indicate your availability for the following schedules:

• AM Shift: Monday – Friday

• AM Shift: Thursday – Monday

• PM Shift: Monday – Friday

• PM Shift: Thursday – Monday

In this role, you will

• Strictly adhere to all safety protocols and DOT regulations while acting as a professional representative of the company to the public.
• Operate the truck while following specific, technical driving protocols to collect high-quality data for our engineering teams.
• At times work as a two-person team, cross-training to sit in the passenger seat, where you will manage mission software, troubleshoot equipment, and monitor real-time data feeds.
• Execute test missions to evaluate software changes on public roads and closed courses, acting as the "eyes and ears" for our engineers.
• Perform Pre-Trips—going beyond standard DOT/FMCSA inspections to verify sensor calibrations and ensure software is updated for the day’s mission.
• Use onboard digital tools to "flag" or "tag" road events (like construction or unique traffic behaviors) so engineers can review the data later.
• Perform simple troubleshooting, such as restarting software modules or checking sensor connections with remote guidance from our engineering team.

Who You Are

• A Continuous Learner: You don't need a computer science degree, but you must be comfortable using laptops/tablets and eager to build a foundation in autonomous technology.
• A Growth Mindset: You value coaching and feedback and are excited by the fast-moving nature of the AV industry.
• Detail Oriented: You take pride in providing clear, actionable feedback on how the truck "feels" and behaves on the road.

Required Qualifications

Licensing & Compliance:

• Interstate Class-A Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
• Valid U.S. Driver’s License (in addition to the CDL)
• Must pass DOT physical and meet all DOT qualification standards.
• Must pass pre-employment, post-incident, and randomized drug testing in accordance with FMCSA requirements
• Driving record must pass Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) guidelines
• Is at least 25 years of age

Experience & Technical Skills:

• Minimum 3 years of experience driving trucks commercially 
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude for basic troubleshooting and maintenance of vehicle systems
• Proficiency in collaboration tools, including Google Docs, Slides, and Sheets
• Experience with Jira (e.g., filling out tickets, tracking ticket statuses)

Aptitude & Soft Skills:

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, for technical reporting and team collaboration
• Ability to use laptops and tablets to launch test missions, monitor real-time data feeds, and enter detailed digital logs.
• Inquisitive attitude, interested in problem solving and solving puzzles
• Positive experiences working in a collaborative environment - team player
• Ability to prioritize and make strategic decisions proactively 
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude for basic troubleshooting and maintenance

Work Environment & Travel:

• Comfortable with long distance driving in diverse traffic and weather conditions
• Ability to travel weekly to new collection locations (up to 90% of the time)
• Comfortable with air travel for deployments
• Ability to work rotating shifts as needed, and regular overtime and weekends

Desirable Qualifications

• Experience in an Agile or Scrum Environment
• Experience with Linux or Command Line Interfaces (CLI)
• Prior Experience in Aviation, or High-Stakes Logistics
• Experience with high-fidelity mapping tools and procedures
• Experience in a safety-critical operations environment or vehicle development/testing

Work Environment and Requirements

• Travel: Significant and frequent travel (up to 90%) across various domestic locations, often for extended periods over the road.
• Environmental Exposure: 
• Must be prepared to operate the Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) and execute mission protocols in a wide range of weather conditions (e.g., heat, cold, rain, snow) and diverse road environments (e.g., urban, rural, interstate highways, construction zones). 
• Operators must be comfortable with exposure to dust, dirt, vibration, and other particulate matter common to commercial vehicle operations.
• Schedule: Flexibility to work non-standard hours, including over the road schedules, weekends or nights, to meet critical development deadlines.
• Testing: Ability to pass all DOT and company-required testing, including pre-employment drug and alcohol screening, ongoing random testing, and annual medical certification.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to sit for long periods while operating a vehicle and the ability to lift up to 50 pounds for equipment handling and cargo securing.

The base hourly wage range for this position is $31.00 - $38.50 per hour. Aurora’s pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, the successful candidate’s starting base pay will be determined based on factors including job-related skills, experience, qualifications, relevant education or training, and market conditions. These ranges may be modified in the future. The successful candidate will also be eligible for an annual bonus, equity compensation, and benefits.

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