Technical Vehicle Test Operator - Wittmann, AZ (Contract)

Latitude AI ( lat.ai ) develops automated driving technologies, including L3, for Ford vehicles at scale. We’re driven by the opportunity to reimagine what it’s like to drive and make travel safer, less stressful, and more enjoyable for everyone. When you join the Latitude team, you’ll work alongside leading experts across machine learning and robotics, cloud platforms, mapping, sensors and compute systems, test operations, systems and safety engineering – all dedicated to making a real, positive impact on the driving experience for millions of people. As a Ford Motor Company subsidiary, we operate independently to develop automated driving technology at the speed of a technology startup. Latitude is headquartered in Pittsburgh with engineering centers in Dearborn, Mich., and Palo Alto, Calif. Meet the team: Fleet Operations is where cutting-edge technology meets real-world application. As a Mission Analyst, you’ll play a hands-on role in preparing test vehicles, executing structured driving routes, logging data, and assisting engineers in verifying software features across multiple domains such as chassis, body, and thermal systems. What you’ll do: Drive test vehicles for long-distance local missions (up to 300-400 miles) and on extensive travel missions (up to 50% travel), including multi-day trips across the U.S. Operate on rotating schedules, including night shifts Perform daily start-up, engagement, disengagement, and shutdown procedures for development vehicles Actively monitor and troubleshoot both software and hardware systems while on the road Execute testing in accordance with strict safety and compliance protocols Maintain accurate and detailed reports on vehicle performance Collaborate closely with engineers to provide feedback and insight on system performance Represent the organization professionally and responsibly while driving in public environments, prioritizing the safety of all road users Assist with vehicle readiness, including software flashing, configuration setup, and instrumentation installation Log test data using CAN tools (e.g., Vehicle Spy, CANalyzer) and onboard logging systems Demonstrate expertise across all stages of development from early software and hardware testing to mature systems in diverse environments such as public roads and closed-course settings Analyze performance through a product-focused lens, taking into account software, engineering, and consumer needs, while capturing and effectively communicating findings to developers and key stakeholders Showcase leadership through superior performance, coaching, promotion of a culture of safety, and positive influence Deliver coaching, feedback, and support to team members, helping them improve performance May oversee and direct the activities of a small shift or group, ensuring efficiency and adherence to company standards Requires the ability to travel (including air) Afternoon, weekend, or nighttime testing may be required depending on development needs and test schedules What you'll need to succeed: High School Diploma or GED equivalent with two years of employment experience required. Associate or Bachelor’s Degree preferred Must have a valid driver’s license in the state of residence and ability to meet Latitude AI’s minimum driving record requirements, as verified by Motor Vehicle Record background checks prior to hire and periodically thereafter Ability to pass ten-panel drug screening and criminal background checks conducted prior to employment and periodically thereafter 0–2 years of experience in vehicle testing, validation, or development shop support Comfortable spending long hours driving and working in close quarters with others, maintaining professionalism and focus Strong interest in technology, adapting quickly to challenges and embracing changes Technical Proficiency with Computers; for example, knowledge of terminal commands and GitHub, with the ability to navigate command-line interfaces Excellent troubleshooting skil…