Technical Vehicle Test Operator - Wittmann, AZ (Contract)

Latitude AI (lat.ai) is building the future of Ford's autonomy roadmap to make travel safer, less stressful, and more enjoyable for everyone. Bringing this vision to scale, our fully in-house developed hands-free ADAS platform will debut on the all-new Ford Fathom in 2027. 

When you join the Latitude team, you'll work alongside leading experts across machine learning and robotics, cloud platforms, mapping, sensors and compute systems, test operations, systems and safety engineering - all dedicated to redefining the relationship between people and their vehicles for millions of customers.

As a Ford Motor Company subsidiary, we operate independently to develop automated driving technology at the speed of a technology startup. Latitude is headquartered in Pittsburgh with engineering centers in Dearborn, Mich., and Palo Alto, Calif.

Meet the team:

Fleet Operations is where cutting-edge technology meets real-world application. As a Mission Analyst, you'll play a hands-on role in preparing test vehicles, executing structured driving routes, logging data, and assisting engineers in verifying software features across multiple domains such as chassis, body, and thermal systems.

What you'll do: 

• Drive test vehicles for long-distance local missions (up to 300-400 miles) and on extensive travel missions (up to 50% travel), including multi-day trips across the U.S.
• Operate on rotating schedules, including night shifts
• Perform daily start-up, engagement, disengagement, and shutdown procedures for development vehicles
• Actively monitor and troubleshoot both software and hardware systems while on the road
• Execute testing in accordance with strict safety and compliance protocols
• Maintain accurate and detailed reports on vehicle performance
• Collaborate closely with engineers to provide feedback and insight on system performance
• Represent the organization professionally and responsibly while driving in public environments, prioritizing the safety of all road users
• Assist with vehicle readiness, including software flashing, configuration setup, and instrumentation installation
• Log test data using CAN tools (e.g., Vehicle Spy, CANalyzer) and onboard logging systems
• Demonstrate expertise across all stages of development from early software and hardware testing to mature systems in diverse environments such as public roads and closed-course settings
• Analyze performance through a product-focused lens, taking into account software, engineering, and consumer needs, while capturing and effectively communicating findings to developers and key stakeholders
• Showcase leadership through superior performance, coaching, promotion of a culture of safety, and positive influence
• Deliver coaching, feedback, and support to team members, helping them improve performance
• May oversee and direct the activities of a small shift or group, ensuring efficiency and adherence to company standards
• Requires the ability to travel (including air)
• Afternoon, weekend, or nighttime testing may be required depending on development needs and test schedules

What you'll need to succeed:

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent with two years of employment experience required. Associate or Bachelor's Degree preferred
• Must have a valid driver's license in the state of residence and ability to meet Latitude AI's minimum driving record requirements, as verified by Motor Vehicle Record background checks prior to hire and periodically thereafter
• Ability to pass ten-panel drug screening and criminal background checks conducted prior to employment and periodically thereafter
• 0-2 years of experience in vehicle testing, validation, or development shop support
• Comfortable spending long hours driving and working in close quarters with others, maintaining professionalism and focus
• Strong interest in technology, adapting quickly to challenges and embracing changes
• Technical Proficiency with Computers; for example, knowledge of terminal commands and GitHub, with the ability to navigate command-line interfaces
• Excellent troubleshooting skills with an ability to identify issues with both software and hardware
• Proficient in vehicle diagnostics and data logging tools (OBD, CAN tools, etc.)
• Proficient in work management tools like Jira, Slack, Driver Schedule, etc
• Contributes to a positive and professional work environment while working with people from diverse backgrounds
• A strong sense of responsibility and reliability-show up on time, ready to work every day
• Takes initiative to resolve issues and make decisions independently, using available tools and expertise effectively
• Actively seeks out opportunities and takes ownership without needing direction or prompting
• Curiosity and excitement about learning new technologies

Nice to have:

• Prior experience in technical driving, fleet operations, or vehicle testing environments where compliance and adherence to procedures were crucial
• Associate degree or certificate in Automotive Technology, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, or a related field
• Accredited proving ground driver training
• Exposure to vehicle software flashing tools or bug tracking systems
• Interest in electric vehicles and embedded software systems

Learn more about Latitude's team, mission and career opportunities at lat.ai!

Candidates for positions with Latitude AI must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.

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We are an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a culturally diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status or protected veteran status.