Tactical Development Truck Operator

Who we are

Aurora’s mission is to deliver the benefits of self-driving technology safely, quickly, and broadly.

The Aurora Driver will create a new era in mobility and logistics, one that will bring a safer, more efficient, and more accessible future to everyone.

At Aurora, you will tackle massively complex problems alongside other passionate, intelligent individuals, growing as an expert while expanding your knowledge. For the latest news from Aurora, visit aurora.tech or follow us on LinkedIn .

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 Palmer, Texas and Phoenix, AZ terminals. Please be prepared to indicate your availability for the following schedules:

Phoenix: AM Shift: Monday - Friday

Palmer: 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 …