Autonomous Vehicle Technician - San Francisco 94124 HOURLY PAY up to $70

AutoNation

1d • $23 - $70 • Onsite

About The Position

The Autonomous Vehicle Technician is an entry-level role supporting inspections, maintenance, and troubleshooting of autonomous vehicles. The position offers hands-on learning in AV hardware, sensors, electrical systems, and diagnostic procedures while supporting fleet readiness and operations and following safety and technical procedures. It is described as suitable for early-career technicians, recent technical program graduates, and people transitioning from traditional automotive or mechanical work into advanced mobility technology.

The posting also describes advanced diagnostics and repair, sensor calibration, AV hardware and software support, field testing, documentation, and technical guidance. Work is performed onsite in shop, lab, and outdoor operational settings, with occasional travel to remote testing or operational sites. Evening, weekend, day, night, or moonlight shifts may be required. The full-time position offers $22.80 to $70.00 per hour, depending on certifications, skills, and experience; another compensation range in the posting is $39.90 to $69.82.

Requirements

• 3–5+ years of experience as an automotive, EV, robotics, or AV technician.
• Strong diagnostic experience with mechanical and electrical vehicle systems.
• Hands-on experience with sensor systems such as LiDAR, radar, and cameras, and with computer hardware.
• Proficiency with diagnostic software, scan tools, and electrical testing equipment.
• Ability to interpret wiring diagrams, schematics, and engineering documentation.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds, work under vehicles, and operate in field environments.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with CAN/LIN tools such as CANalyzer, SavvyCAN, or Vehicle Spy.
• ASE Master Technician certification, EV/Hybrid certification, or OEM factory training.
• High-voltage systems experience; HV safety certification is a plus.
• Knowledge of Linux command line and basic scripting for diagnostics.
• Prior experience in autonomous vehicles, robotics, advanced ADAS, or mobility technology.
• Experience supporting fleet operations or fast-paced technical environments.

Responsibilities

• Perform complex mechanical and electrical troubleshooting on AV powertrain, braking, suspension, and high-voltage systems.
• Diagnose, repair, and validate faults involving CAN networks, LIN bus, power distribution, and AV computer hardware.
• Use advanced diagnostic tools for root-cause analysis and resolution of recurring system issues.
• Calibrate LiDAR, radar, camera arrays, GPS units, IMUs, and perception systems.
• Validate sensor alignment, accuracy, and performance against AV operational standards.
• Support testing and verification of updated sensor platforms and new hardware integrations.
• Install, configure, and replace AV components, including computer modules, communication units, wiring harnesses, and networking equipment.
• Support engineering teams with software deployments, data extraction, log reviews, and local debugging.
• Execute test plans, collect vehicle data, and provide technical feedback on firmware and hardware performance.
• Support on-road and closed-course AV testing, including real-time troubleshooting during missions.
• Respond to escalated field issues, vehicle recoveries, and operational incidents.
• Coordinate with remote monitoring teams to address live AV technical needs.
• Document repairs, calibrations, and diagnostics in fleet management systems.
• Identify system trends, propose solutions, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Provide technical guidance, mentorship, and training to AV technicians and cross-functional team members.
• Support basic inspections, maintenance, troubleshooting, vehicle readiness, and fleet operations while following established safety and technical procedures.

Benefits

• Full benefits package, including paid time off and 401(k) with company match.
• Longevity bonuses.
• Employee referral bonus program for technicians, with up to $3,000 per technician referral.
• Employee discounts on vehicle purchases, parts, and service.
• Advancement opportunities.
• Competitive compensation and 401(k) matching.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Maternity benefits.
• Associate purchase and discount programs for vehicles, services, parts, collision, accessories, and AutoGear.
• Discounts through YouDecide, a website with offers from providers and retailers.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed