Tactical Development Testing Operator - CDL A

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 and technically proficient CDL A Operator to join the Tactical Development Operations team. This critical role requires the individual to be a cross-trained crew member, collaboratively executing the full spectrum of Commercial Autonomous Vehicle (AV) development missions. The operator will drive AV product maturity, map coverage optimization, and development efficiency by ensuring all foundational high-fidelity mapping, complex 2VO and SVO autonomy development missions, and critical software release testing are seamlessly completed on time.This role requires operation of a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) and extensive travel (up to 90%).

In this role you will

The Tactical Development Operator will be cross-trained and expected to perform the following core duties:

• Spend 100% of shift time in the vehicle (vehicle as office), performing hands-on operations across all mission types.
• Operate the Commercial AV manually while strictly adhering to complex, non-linear test and data collection protocols to meet specific engineering objectives.
• Operate AVs autonomously, following outlined test and release procedures on public roads and closed courses, including critical two-vehicle operation (2VO) and safety-critical vehicle operation (SVO) missions.
• Execute high-fidelity mapping missions to capture the necessary data for foundational map coverage and new domain expansion.
• Perform critical on-road validation and testing of new software releases, identifying, documenting, and reporting all defects, anomalies, and necessary improvements.
• Be cross-trained in "right seat" mission setup, troubleshooting, and monitoring of data collection missions to seamlessly execute the full spectrum of development.
• Responsible for the complete end-to-end readiness of the autonomous vehicle, including pre- and post-trip inspections (e.g., DOT/FMCSA standards), sensor calibration verification, software updates, and basic troubleshooting.
• Meticulously collect, log, and annotate mission data, and provide detailed, high-quality feedback and reports on vehicle performance, behavior, and environment interactions, utilizing strong time management and organizational skills.
• Strictly adhere to all company safety protocols, DOT/FMCSA regulations, and legal requirements while operating the CMV, prioritizing safety in all aspects of the job.
• Act as the primary interface between the on-road operations team and engineering teams, ensuring clear communication of development needs and on-road feedback.
• Interact with the public as an ambassador for Aurora.

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
• 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 some 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 $36.00 - $46.00 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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