At Mercedes-Benz Research & Development North America (MBRDNA), we are committed to delivering world-class automotive technologies that push the boundaries of what is possible. Our teams of highly skilled engineers and designers use cutting-edge software and technology, to enhance the driving experience and reduce environmental impact.

As the Test Operations Lead, you will be responsible for leading Test Operators and
supporting the execution of vehicle testing. This role combines people and resource
management, operator training and qualification, program coordination, and hands-on
vehicle testing. You will work closely with engineering teams, external partners, and other
cross-functional stakeholders to ensure test activities are executed safely, efficiently, and
according to defined requirements.

 

Key Responsibilities
• Identify operator resource needs and coordinate staffing based on vehicle
availability, testing priorities, and program requirements.
• Maintain and track operator qualifications, required training, certifications, vacation
schedules, and overall availability.
• Coordinate onboarding and training of new Test Operators and ensure operators
maintain the qualifications required for their assigned activities.
• Receive technical and operational training from internal teams and external
partners and effectively cascade that knowledge to the Test Operator team.
• Provide ongoing guidance, coaching, and support to Test Operators to ensure safe
and consistent execution of testing activities.
• Partner closely with engineering, vehicle operations, program management, and
other teams to align testing needs, vehicle readiness, and operator availability.
• Support planning and execution of upcoming test campaigns and specialized
driving activities.
• Drive operational improvements that increase the safety, efficiency, consistency,
and quality of vehicle testing activities.
 

The successful candidate’s starting pay will be determined based on a wide range of factors, including, but not limited to, job-related education, skills, and experience, geographic location, and market conditions. The current salary range for this position is as follows and may be modified in the future: $87,000 - $140,000.

Required Qualifications
• Possess a valid CA Driver’s license with a driving record that meets CA DMV
autonomous vehicle testing requirements.
• 6+ years autonomous vehicle experience
• Proven experience in coaching and supporting team members to close
performance gaps and achieve expected standards.
• 3+ years experience in supplier relations with multiple contracting houses.

• Strong understanding of defensive driving and vehicle safety practices.
• Strong ability to identify gaps and drive improvements.

 

Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with 3+ autonomous vehicle training programs.
• 5+ years of instructing experience related to autonomous vehicles
• 3+ years working with senior management to understand priorities, take ownership,
and independently drive execution across downstream members with minimal
oversight.
• Experience managing teams across multiple locations

MBRDNA is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and strongly supports diversity in the workforce. MBRDNA only accepts resumes from approved agencies who have a valid Agency Agreement on file. Please do not forward resumes to our applicant tracking system, MBRDNA employees, or send to any MBRDNA location.  MBRDNA is not responsible for any fees or claims related to receipt of unsolicited resumes.

Mercedes-Benz Research and Development North America, Inc.