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Autonomous Vehicle Operator (CDL-A) - TEMP POSITION

Henderson, Colorado

The Company

Outrider is a software company that is automating distribution yards with electric, self-driving trucks. Our system eliminates manual tasks that are hazardous and repetitive while it improves safety and efficiency. Outrider’s mission is to drive the rapid adoption of sustainable freight transportation. We are a private company founded in 2018 and backed by NEA, 8VC, Koch Disruptive Technologies, NVIDIA, and other top-tier investors. Our customers are Fortune 200 companies and our autonomous trucks are already running in distribution yards. For more information, visit www.outrider.ai

The Team

The AV Operator (CDL) reports to the Head of Autonomous Vehicle (AV) Site Operations and helps test, operate, maintain, and evaluate Outrider’s self-driving vehicle system. The AV Operator is primarily responsible for the safe operation of AVs -- which may operate in manual, partial-automation or full-automation modes -- and therefore is the authority on identifying and correcting potential safety risks during operation. Responsibilities include monitoring the vehicle and driving environment; determining whether and how to return the vehicle to a minimum-risk condition; and intervening in automated driving tasks to resume manual or computer control for safety and performance assessment purposes. 

This role is hands-on, requiring acute attentiveness to the vehicle system during operation, as well as constant observations of its performance both in the cab and via a software-based dispatching/monitoring tool. The successful candidate will enjoy a dynamic work environment, has strong focus and attention to detail, is comfortable making fast and sound decisions with a safety-first mindset. This position plays an essential role in helping deliver a safety-critical system for industrial automation. The opportunity offers the successful candidate the chance to help develop a market-defining enterprise product that combines robotics technology with a software-as-a-service (SaaS) business model.

The Role

This is a temporary 6-month position with the potential for extension based on business needs.

The Autonomous Vehicle Safety Driver (CDL) reports to the Head of AV Site Operations and is responsible for testing, operating, maintaining, and evaluating Outrider’s self-driving vehicle system. This role ensures the safe operation of AVs in manual, partial-automation, and full-automation modes, identifying and mitigating potential safety risks. Responsibilities include monitoring the vehicle and driving environment, determining appropriate responses to maintain safety, and intervening in automated driving as needed. The role requires sharp attentiveness to vehicle performance, both in-cab and through software-based monitoring tools, as well as the ability to make quick, sound decisions with a safety-first mindset.

This position is critical to delivering a safety-focused industrial automation system and offers the opportunity to contribute to a market-defining enterprise product that integrates robotics technology with a SaaS business model. The ideal candidate thrives in a dynamic environment, demonstrates strong focus and attention to detail, and is comfortable adapting to evolving technology and operational demands.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Safely operate vehicles in-cab for 8 to 10+ hours per day
  • Uphold a strong safety mindset through daily inspections, proactive improvements, and on-the-spot issue resolution
  • Provide detailed verbal and written test reports on system performance for cross-functional teams
  • Maintain a valid U.S. Class A CDL, carrying it at all times as required
  • Conduct preventative maintenance, installation, and upkeep of vehicle hardware
  • Support commercial, operations, and engineering teams in root-cause analysis
  • Perform minor repairs under engineering guidance and OEM instructions
  • Communicate issues and performance insights to AV Dispatchers and engineering teams
  • Adhere to all safety policies, procedures, and equipment requirements
  • Travel up to 20% for fieldwork based on customer needs

Required Qualifications

  • Strong desire and ability to understand Outrider’s autonomous vehicle system through continuous learning and collaboration
  • Valid Class A CDL in Colorado and other states as required, carried at all times on the job
  • 3 years of verifiable Class A tractor-trailer driving experience
  • Safe and proficient backing skills with various trailer types in dynamic yard environments
  • Clean driving record for the past 5 years
  • Flexibility for day, night, and weekend work, sometimes on short notice
  • Commitment to safety and continuous system improvement
  • Proficiency with desktop software and web applications
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Positive and energetic approach to teamwork and interactions
  • Availability to travel to Brighton, CO for a two-week paid training program

Ideal Qualifications

  • Yard hostler experience in a distribution center environment
  • Experience with autonomous vehicles or related technology
  • Background in operations, technology, robotics, or the automotive industry
  • Vehicle maintenance experience
  • Proficiency with issue ticketing software such as Fleetio, Jira, or Zendesk

Shift

  • Monday through Friday from 4:30pm - 1:00am

Compensation & Benefits

  • Hourly Wage: $28.00 - $32.00
  • Actual compensation is based on several factors, including but not limited to job-related skills, qualifications, experience, and specific work location due to differences in the cost of labor

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