CDL-A Cold Weather Test Driver

Technical Professionals Group•Fairbanks, AK

About The Position

Technical Professionals Group, LLC (TPG) is seeking an experienced, technically skilled CDL test driver for a seasonal, project-based winter vehicle testing program supporting a leading electric commercial vehicle manufacturer. The role involves operating specialized heavy-duty electric commercial vehicles, including pre-production vehicles and prototypes, in real-world winter conditions. It is not a traditional commercial driving position; drivers combine behind-the-wheel expertise with technical observation and disciplined testing procedures to support vehicle development, validation, durability, reliability, and safety evaluation. The driver conducts vehicle inspections, follows structured engineering-directed test procedures, evaluates vehicle performance in snow, ice, extreme cold, and other adverse conditions, and records and communicates findings to engineering and technical teams. The position may also involve assisting with troubleshooting and repeat testing. It is safety-sensitive and requires compliance with applicable driver qualification requirements, drug screening, and established testing protocols. Work involves winter road testing in challenging and potentially extreme weather, prolonged routine sitting for eight or more hours, and lifting at least 25 pounds.

Requirements

Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL-A) and a safe driving record.
Extensive professional experience operating heavy-duty commercial vehicles, preferably Class 8 vehicles.
Demonstrated ability to safely operate heavy commercial vehicles in adverse winter conditions, including snow, ice, freezing temperatures, and reduced visibility.
Strong mechanical and technical aptitude, including the ability to recognize, describe, and communicate vehicle performance concerns.
Experience conducting detailed pre-trip and post-trip inspections and identifying potential mechanical or operational issues.
Ability to follow detailed technical instructions, specialized test procedures, and safety protocols accurately.
Strong observational, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to document findings clearly and communicate effectively with engineering and technical personnel.
Professionalism, sound judgment, situational awareness, and commitment to safe vehicle operation.
Flexibility to adapt to changing test plans, vehicle configurations, and environmental conditions.
Ability to sit routinely for eight or more hours and lift at least 25 pounds.
Ability to meet applicable driver qualification requirements and comply with drug screening and established testing protocols.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in automotive testing, vehicle validation, proving grounds, or research and development environments.
Experience operating electric commercial vehicles or familiarity with high-voltage electric vehicle systems.
Understanding of vehicle dynamics, braking systems, traction control, stability systems, and electronic vehicle monitoring systems.
Experience with prototype vehicles, diagnostic equipment, vehicle data collection systems, or specialized testing procedures.
Experience collaborating directly with automotive engineers, test technicians, or vehicle development teams.

Responsibilities

Safely operate specialized heavy-duty electric commercial vehicles, including pre-production models and prototypes, in real-world winter driving conditions.
Conduct comprehensive pre-trip and post-trip inspections and identify and document mechanical, electrical, operational, or safety-related concerns.
Execute structured vehicle testing procedures and engineering-directed driving assignments according to established protocols.
Evaluate and document vehicle behavior, handling, braking, traction, stability, and overall performance in snow, ice, extreme cold, and other adverse weather.
Monitor vehicle performance and recognize unusual behavior, system alerts, faults, or potential operational concerns during testing.
Collect, record, and communicate test data, vehicle observations, and performance findings to engineering and technical teams.
Assist engineering personnel with troubleshooting, diagnostic observations, and repeat testing to identify or verify vehicle performance concerns.
Follow safety protocols, testing procedures, and operational guidelines when working with specialized prototype vehicles.
Maintain accurate test logs, inspection reports, and other required documentation.
Collaborate with engineering, testing, and project personnel to support daily testing objectives and program milestones.