Brief Role Description

The Autonomous Vehicle Safety Operations Trainer is responsible for planning and executing training programs that ensure the safe operation of autonomous vehicles on public roads. This role requires deep understanding of VW autonomous driving technology and hands-on expertise with in-vehicle systems. You will stay current on software updates by testing and evaluating new releases before incorporating them into training.

As a subject matter expert, you will collaborate with the autonomous vehicle training team and fleet operations to support all phases of public road and closed-course testing. You will also create and maintain training materials for initial certification and ongoing education programs, while ensuring accurate documentation and visibility of training metrics.

Possible Tasks within this Role

Safety Driver Training – 80%

• Deliver classroom and in-vehicle training on manual driving fundamentals and autonomous vehicle operations.
• Train safety drivers on engagement/disengagement procedures, fault injection, and system interaction.
• Provide introductory autonomous driving instruction and explain testing protocols for software, hardware, and instrumentation.
• Track driver progress, certifications, and refresher requirements.
• Offer real-time feedback during in-vehicle sessions and assess performance using standardized rubrics.
• Develop specialized training for mission types such as Release Candidate (RC), Verification & Validation (V&V) testing, and external demonstrations.
• Facilitate group discussions, administer assessments, and provide constructive feedback.

Assess Vehicle Performance - 10%

• Safety operate autonomous vehicles in both manual and self-driving modes across varied traffic conditions
• Continuously monitor road, traffic, and system status; disengage automation when necessary to maintain highest levels of safety.
• Document vehicle performance and provide detailed feedback after each trip.
• Identify and mitigate potential safety risks while promoting adherence to safety standards.

Driving Interviews – 5%

• Conduct candidate driver evaluations and recommend hiring decisions based on performance.

• Design interview routes that assess knowledge of local and state traffic laws.

Administrative Responsibilities- 5%

• Participate in scheduling and planning meetings to align training needs
• Recommend process improvements and enhancements to online learning modules
• Update curriculum to reflect advancements in software and associated tools

Qualification requirements

Years of Experience:

• 3+ years of driving experience (preferably in vehicle testing, as a driving instructor, in racing, etc.) in accordance with SAE J3018
• 3+ years of training experience

Education:

Required

Desired

• High School Diploma

• Associate’s degree

Skills:

• Detail oriented mindset with a focus on safety and procedure.
• Strong desire to learn new skills related to technology and software
• Excellent written and oral communication skills with the ability to span a large and varied workforce
• Ability to lead training and continuing education sessions.
• Demonstrated ability to lead large groups by continuous education training modules across operations.
• Motivate, engage, and inspire people with diverse backgrounds in various settings
• Possess a valid US Driver License with a clean driving record
• Thrives in dynamic environments, embraces operational challenges, and demonstrates adaptability when navigating ambiguity

Specialized Skills:

Required

Desired

• Proven experience in a training setting with the ability to conduct process and safety orientations
• Experience with hands-on and computer-based learning programs.
• Passport for international travel incl. Germany

• Direct experience working in the autonomous vehicle industry within operations
• Previous experience working with an international work environment.

Work Flexibility:

• Physically able to drive a vehicle for an extended period
• Able to travel (international and domestic) up to 25- 40% of time to remote offices, training facilities or other testing cities if the need arises
• Flexible work schedule primarily during daytime to support cross-regional collaboration, including early engagements with Europe as well as US locations in Austin and on the East Coast.

Compensation Data

In Los Angeles, California, the salary range for this role will be $70,000 - $80,000, depending on education and years of relevant experience. Salary is determined by geographical location and adjusted accordingly.

Competencies