Autonomous Fleet Specialist - CDL A

Company: Kett Engineering
Location: Elmendorf
Posted on: February 21, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Company Overview Kett Engineering is a well-established leader in automotive testing and engineering services, supporting vehicle development, durability testing, and program management for leading automotive manufacturers and Tier-1 suppliers. With over 60 years of industry experience, our dedicated team ensures the highest standards of quality and customer service. Summary We are seeking skilled and safety-focused Autonomous Drivers to support the testing, validation, and operational readiness of advanced autonomous Class A commercial vehicles. In this role, you will serve as the primary safety operator, responsible for monitoring autonomous driving systems, maintaining full situational awareness, intervening when necessary, and providing high-quality operational feedback to engineering and safety teams. The ideal candidate brings extensive CDL Class A experience, strong technical aptitude, and the ability to work in dynamic, fast-moving development environments. This position is a critical component of on-road autonomous operations and requires professionalism, discipline, and exceptional communication skills. Hourly Pay Rate: $25 - $27 (depending on experience) Overnight Shift: 12:00am - 8:00am Day Shift: 8:00am - 4:00pm Responsibilities Autonomous & Manual Vehicle Operation Safely operate and oversee autonomous commercial vehicles on designated highway routes along the I-35 corridor, intervening or assuming manual control when required. Execute recurring regional routes between Laredo and Dallas as part of daily pilot and validation operations. Maintain continuous attention and situational awareness during all autonomous operations. Support specialized test procedures, including system checks, route validations, and event-specific evaluations. Perform drop-and-hook operations, yard moves, backing/docking, and coupling/uncoupling of tractor-trailer combinations. Pre-Trip, In-Route & Post-Trip Requirements Conduct thorough vehicle safety inspections per DOT, OEM, and site-specific protocols. Document vehicle performance, disengagements, anomalies, near-misses, and environmental observations using standardized reporting templates and onboard systems. Ensure accuracy and completeness of logs, data entries, and operational records. Technical & Reporting Responsibilities Utilize onboard data tools, GPS tracking systems, and diagnostic interfaces to support engineering and safety reporting. Communicate real-time route status, events, system observations, and safety concerns to the Control Center and engineering teams. Provide structured feedback after each route, including improvement opportunities, system behaviors, and operational insights. Safety, Compliance & Training Maintain full compliance with DOT/FMCSA requirements, ELD regulations, site operating rules, and safety standards. Complete all required site-specific training, customer orientations, and company safety certifications before operating autonomous equipment. Adhere to PPE requirements, safety protocols, alcohol/drug policies, and operational readiness standards. Participate in incident reporting, near-miss documentation, and corrective action processes when required. Teamwork & Communication Collaborate closely with engineering, safety, field operations, and Control Center teams. Communicate clearly and consistently across functions to ensure safe, successful execution of test plans. Support a culture of continuous improvement, operational discipline, and safety excellence. Follow all company safety policies and procedures to ensure a safe working environment. Required Qualifications Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Minimum 5 years of recent Class A driving experience, preferably across regional and OTR environments. Demonstrated experience operating safely in high-traffic interstate corridors. Clean and current Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) meeting DOT standards. Successful completion of DOT physical and ability to meet all DOT qualification requirements. Ability to work variable schedules, including nights and weekends, to support 24/7 operations. Must have your high school diploma or GED. Preferred Qualifications Prior experience in vehicle testing, OEM validation, fleet technology trials, or advanced vehicle systems development. Familiarity with autonomous driving systems, SAE Level 2–4 features, or advanced driver-assist technologies. Proficiency with ELDs, telematics systems, and in-cab technology platforms. Strong analytical skills, curiosity, and ability to recognize patterns or anomalies. Experience in mixed-traffic environments, including long-haul interstate corridors. Passport preferred for potential travel requirements. Physical & Environmental Requirements Ability to sit for prolonged periods (up to 2 hours at a time) during on-road testing. Ability to lift, carry, push, or move items up to 50 lbs. Comfortable working outdoors in varied weather conditions, including heat, dust, rain, or uneven terrain. Work in environments with varying noise levels (proving grounds, garages, active roadways). Schedule Expectations Drivers should expect regular route execution along the I-35 corridor, including day and night operations depending on pilot phase. Some roles require overnight, weekend, or variable shift work to support around-the-clock testing and operations. Must be flexible to participate in rotating shift schedules depending on pilot phases and operational needs. Travel may be required for training, testing events, or remote operations support. Company Description Established in 1953, Kett Engineering is a leader in the Automotive Test and Personnel Services industry. Our goal is to provide our Automotive and OEM customers with superior service. The strength and success of Kett clearly comes from the people behind the organization. Our workforce is comprised of dedicated, talented and hard working individuals with years of industry experience. If you have an interest in automotive technology industry, a passion for excellence and a desire to exceed expectations then, we want you on are our team! Company Description Established in 1953, Kett Engineering is a leader in the Automotive Test and Personnel Services industry. Our goal is to provide our Automotive and OEM customers with superior service.\r\n\r\nThe strength and success of Kett clearly comes from the people behind the organization. Our workforce is comprised of dedicated, talented and hard working individuals with years of industry experience.\r\n\r\nIf you have an interest in automotive technology industry, a passion for excellence and a desire to exceed expectations then, we want you on are our team!

Keywords: Kett Engineering, Austin , Autonomous Fleet Specialist - CDL A, Engineering , Elmendorf, Texas