Mission Analyst - Palo Alto, CA (Contract)

Latitude AI•Palo Alto, CA

16h•Onsite

About The Position

The Mission Analyst is a senior-level technical role responsible for executing complex vehicle evaluation missions independently. You will serve as the primary link between the field and the engineering team, managing the vehicle’s software state, troubleshooting system failures in real-time, and providing high-fidelity data. This role eliminates the need for an engineer to be present in the vehicle during most test cycles and requires a degree of technical literacy regarding vehicle software architecture.

Requirements

Minimum 3+ years of experience in vehicle testing, automotive technology, or prototype systems validation.
High School Diploma required.
Proficiency with Jira (managing bug lifecycles), Linux terminal/command-line interfaces, GitHub, and automotive diagnostic hardware.
Hands-on proficiency with wiring, sensor installation, and electrical system troubleshooting.
A strong sense of responsibility and reliability & an exceptional ability to follow multi-step instructions and maintain focus during repetitive tasks.
Valid driver’s license with a clean record.
Ability to pass a ten-panel drug screen and criminal background check.

Nice To Haves

Degree in Automotive Technology, Computer/Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field preferred.
ASE Certification is a plus.
Prior experience in technical driving, fleet operations, or vehicle testing environments where compliance and adherence to procedures were crucial.
Experience with fully electric vehicles (EV) and embedded software systems.
Exposure to vehicle software flashing tools or bug tracking systems.
Professional motorsports or high-performance vehicle experience.
Preferred accredited proving ground training.
Fabrication and advanced wiring experience.

Responsibilities

Lead and execute comprehensive test routes and maneuvers based on engineering test plans without on-site supervision.
Precisely document test cases and suggest product improvements based on field observations.
Utilize in-house and industry-standard diagnostic tools (e.g., CANalyzer, Vehicle Spy) to perform software updates, module flashing, and configuration changes.
Identify and document software defects in Jira. Create detailed tickets including reproduction steps and environmental conditions; manage the bug lifecycle by verifying fixes with the development team.
Test and validate prototype firmware across platforms.
Service and maintain instrumentation systems, firmware interfaces, sensor installations, and vehicle wire harnesses.
Troubleshoot system level Issues, documenting & escalating clear reproduction steps for failure modes. May require the ability to rapidly learn new tools and technologies in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
Monitor and manage onboard data logging equipment to ensure all necessary signals are captured correctly.
Execute commands or scripts in a Linux terminal to gather diagnostic data.
Oversee small shifts or groups, providing coaching and feedback to team members to ensure efficiency and a culture of safety.
Drive test vehicles for long-distance missions (up to 400 miles) and travel missions (up to 20%), including occasional rotating schedules & shifts.
Represent the organization professionally and responsibly while driving in public environments, prioritizing the safety of all road users.