Autonomous Fleet Specialist 2nd Shift

About the role

Join Torc Robotics as an Autonomous Fleet Specialist on the 2nd shift, where you will be an essential part of our team dedicated to testing and ensuring the safety of our autonomous vehicles. In this role, you will be responsible for overseeing the operation of autonomous trucks during testing phases, monitoring vehicle performance, environmental conditions, and safety protocols to support the development of autonomous transportation solutions. Your work will directly contribute to advancing our technology and ensuring the safety of our autonomous fleet during real-world testing scenarios. This position requires a keen eye for detail, the ability to react quickly to changing conditions, and a commitment to safety standards. You will collaborate closely with engineering teams, providing critical feedback and documentation to improve vehicle performance and safety measures.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Conduct comprehensive pre-trip inspections of autonomous vehicles, including verifying software deployment, safety systems, and vehicle readiness before each test.
• Perform post-trip inspections to identify any issues or anomalies that occurred during testing and document findings accurately.
• Monitor vehicle status and environmental conditions continuously during testing, including road, traffic, and weather factors, to ensure safe operation.
• Make real-time decisions to pause, stop, or adjust vehicle operations based on observed safety concerns or environmental hazards.
• Analyze incidents and test data to determine causes and appropriate responses, ensuring safety protocols are followed at all times.
• Review daily logistics reports, environmental data, and road conditions to identify optimal testing opportunities and plan future test runs accordingly.
• Communicate detailed feedback and observations to engineering teams, providing insights that help improve vehicle systems and safety measures.
• Report any vehicle maintenance, safety issues, or anomalies before testing begins to ensure all vehicles are in proper working order.
• Assist in troubleshooting vehicle issues during testing, providing detailed documentation to support engineering investigations.
• Support the implementation of safety protocols and emergency procedures during vehicle operations, ensuring compliance with all safety standards.
• Maintain accurate records of test activities, incidents, and vehicle performance to support ongoing safety and development efforts.
• Collaborate with team members to ensure testing schedules are adhered to and safety standards are maintained throughout all operations.
• Stay informed about environmental conditions and road safety updates to adapt testing plans as needed.
• Participate in regular safety meetings and training sessions to stay current on safety procedures and operational best practices.
• Assist in the training of new team members or temporary staff as needed, sharing knowledge about vehicle inspection and safety protocols.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives by providing feedback on testing procedures and safety practices.

Requirements

• A background in Computer Science, engineering, transportation, or related fields, or strong computer skills.
• Experience or familiarity with transportation, vehicle safety, or engineering practices.
• Ability to operate software on a laptop while in a moving vehicle for extended periods, demonstrating technical proficiency.
• Strong analytical skills and problem-solving abilities to assess vehicle performance and environmental data.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and make quick decisions in dynamic testing environments.
• Capacity to stay focused and react swiftly under stress, ensuring safety at all times.
• Physical ability to enter and exit vehicles, remain seated for long periods (up to four to ten hours daily), and perform necessary inspections.
• Valid US driver's license with a clean driving record, demonstrating responsible driving behavior.
• At least 6 years of driving experience on US roads, including long-distance driving and navigating various traffic conditions.
• Willingness to comply with all company policies regarding alcohol and drug testing, including random testing protocols.
• Flexibility to travel 1-2 nights per week, with all travel expenses covered by the company.
• Strong communication skills to relay observations and safety concerns clearly to team members and engineers.
• Ability to work in a team environment, collaborating effectively with colleagues and management.
• Attention to detail in documenting test results, incidents, and vehicle conditions.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to new safety procedures and testing protocols as needed.

Nice to have

• Experience scripting or working with Linux-based systems, which can assist in troubleshooting or data analysis.
• Knowledge of logistics, transportation systems, or fleet management.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple test schedules and documentation efficiently.
• An interest in autonomous vehicle technology, vehicle maintenance, and long-distance driving.
• Familiarity with safety standards and best practices in vehicle testing environments.
• Previous experience working in a testing or safety-critical environment involving vehicles or transportation systems.

Skills & tools

• Proficiency in monitoring and analyzing vehicle software and system data.
• Familiarity with vehicle operation, safety protocols, and emergency procedures.
• Ability to operate laptops and software tools used for vehicle monitoring and data collection.
• Strong observational skills to detect anomalies or safety concerns during vehicle operation.
• Good communication skills for reporting incidents and providing feedback to engineering teams.

Practical notes

Torc Robotics offers a competitive compensation package that includes a bonus structure and stock options. Full-time employees benefit from 100% coverage of medical, dental, and vision insurance premiums. Additional benefits include a 401K plan with a 6% employer match, flexible scheduling options, generous paid vacation time, and life insurance coverage. The company is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace environment, encouraging applicants from all backgrounds to apply, even if they do not meet every listed qualification. This role involves on-site work at our Blacksburg, VA facility, with travel required for testing activities. The position emphasizes safety, attention to detail, and teamwork, providing an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge autonomous vehicle development.