Safety Driver - Full Time/Contract

📋 Description

• • As a Safety Driver at Avride, you will play a critical role in advancing autonomous vehicle technology by ensuring safe, reliable, and lawful operation of self-driving vehicles in real-world conditions. Your work directly supports data collection, system validation, and the safe deployment of cutting-edge autonomous systems in partnership with industry leaders like Uber.
• • You will operate Avride autonomous vehicles across Austin, TX, alternating between manual control and supervising autonomous mode, while maintaining constant vigilance to ensure safety, collect performance data, and support ongoing testing and development efforts.
• • You will be part of Avride’s dedicated Operations Team, a mission-driven group focused on bringing autonomous technology safely from the lab to the road. Working closely with engineers, QA specialists, and remote operators, you’ll contribute to a culture of precision, responsibility, and innovation in a fast-paced startup environment.
• • Through this role, you will develop deep expertise in autonomous vehicle operations, gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge mobility technology, and build valuable skills in vehicle safety protocols, data reporting, and cross-functional collaboration—positioning you for growth in the emerging autonomous transportation industry.
• • Operate autonomous vehicles safely and lawfully to collect critical data on system performance and environmental factors.
• • Interact professionally with riders, engineers, and company operations leaders to provide feedback and insights.
• • Monitor vehicle performance and conduct in-field testing to ensure operational safety.
• • Prepare vehicles daily for in-field operations, including safety checks and system readiness.
• • Submit detailed reports to support system advancements and operational improvements.
• • Be prepared for the actions of other drivers and pedestrians as well as for unexpected events.
• • Be alert and distraction free while in vehicles.
• • Work closely with remote operators, alternating between manual driving and supervising the vehicle in autonomous mode.
• • Support data collection and testing efforts, which may include adjusting hardware, uploading software, and assisting with basic technical troubleshooting.
• • Adhere to strict safety protocols and maintain a distraction-free environment at all times during vehicle operation.
• • Communicate operational observations and anomalies clearly to engineering and operations teams.
• • Ensure vehicle readiness through pre-shift inspections, including fluid levels, tire pressure, sensor cleanliness, and system diagnostics.
• • Follow all traffic laws and company safety policies while operating in diverse urban and suburban environments across Austin.