Field Test Specialist - Autonomous Vehicles (Closed Track)

Overview:

We are seeking a Field Test Specialist to support the testing of multiple autonomous vehicles on a closed track. This role involves monitoring vehicle behavior, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and responding to unexpected situations, including activating emergency stop procedures when necessary. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and comfortable working in a dynamic test environment.

Meet the team:

The Glydways Systems, Safety, and Test team is responsible for ensuring a safe, performant Glydways product. The position of Field Test Specialist is a crucial part of our test and V&V efforts, handling the safe execution of track-side testing and data collection at our Glydways Development Facility (GDF2). 

Key Roles and Responsibilities

• Monitor Autonomous Vehicle Behavior – Visually observe multiple vehicles in real time, ensuring they operate as expected within test parameters.
• Safety Management – Act as the first line of defense in preventing incidents by proactively identifying irregular behavior and triggering the emergency stop protocol when necessary.
• Test Execution & Support – Assist in executing predefined test scenarios, including vehicle startup, shutdown, and performance evaluation.
• Data Logging & Reporting – Document test results, unexpected behaviors, and incidents for further analysis.
• Track Supervision – Ensure a safe and controlled testing environment, coordinating with engineers and test operators.
• Communication & Coordination – Work closely with the development and test engineering teams to relay observations and ensure testing runs smoothly.
• Equipment & Vehicle Readiness – Conduct pre- and post-test inspections to confirm vehicle operability and system integrity.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge:

• Understanding of autonomous vehicle systems and basic vehicle dynamics.
• Familiarity with test track operations and safety protocols.
• Awareness of emergency response procedures in a testing environment.

Skills:

• High attention to detail – Ability to monitor multiple vehicles simultaneously and detect subtle anomalies.
• Quick decision-making – Ability to assess vehicle behavior and react immediately to potential hazards.
• Strong communication – Effectively report observations and collaborate with engineering teams.
• Technical aptitude – Ability to operate test equipment, SW deployment tools, remote monitoring systems, and onboard vehicle systems.
• Basic troubleshooting – Ability to recognize and report system malfunctions.

Abilities:

• Ability to remain focused for extended periods while monitoring vehicle behavior.
• Ability to work in an outdoor or enclosed test track environment in varying conditions.
• Ability to quickly react and initiate emergency stop protocol when needed.
• Ability to follow structured test plans while adapting to real-time conditions.
• Ability to work collaboratively with engineers, technicians, and other test operators.

Requirements:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is a plus.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Experience working in real-world, safety-critical test environments (test tracks, test labs, etc)
• Knowledge of robotics, autonomy, and transportation systems, or relevant complex integrated systems, is preferred
• Knowledge of automotive and rail & transit standards (ISO26262, SAE J3016, FMVSS, FRA, AAR, EN50126/50128/50129), is a plus but not required. 

This role is critical in ensuring the safe and effective testing of autonomous vehicles. If you thrive in a structured yet fast-paced environment and have a keen eye for detail, we encourage you to apply!

The pay range for this position at commencement of employment in California is expected in the range below.

$75,000-110,000 USD plus stock options, commensurate with experience