Tesla is expanding its workforce by targeting 15 cities for the recruitment of full-time Prototype Vehicle Operators, a critical role aimed at enhancing the self-driving capabilities of its vehicles (via @Tslachan).
Located in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, among other locations, this position is essential for the data collection efforts that support Tesla’s advancements in Autopilot and Robotics technologies, notes the job description.
The role of a Prototype Vehicle Operator involves capturing high-quality data crucial for the improvement of Tesla’s autonomous driving performance. Candidates are expected to be highly motivated, attentive to detail, and capable of maintaining confidentiality in a fast-paced and dynamic work environment. The job demands a flexible schedule with shifts available from 5:00 AM to 1:30 PM or 5:00 PM to 1:30 AM, running from Sunday to Thursday or Tuesday to Saturday.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently announced the company will unveil its highly-anticipated ‘Robotaxi’ on August 8, 2024. Some suspect these positions may be tied to that announcement. Maybe these drivers will be verifying Robotaxi data?
Responsibilities for this position include operating a vehicle within a designated area to collect data, managing recording devices, performing minor equipment and software debugging, and reporting on data collected during shifts. Operators are also expected to provide feedback on data collection processes, write daily reports on observations and issues, and ensure the vehicle is in proper and safe working order.
Here are the 15 cities where Tesla is seeking these Prototype Vehicle Operators, as per job postings on its website:
The qualifications for this role include a valid driver’s license, exceptional observational skills, proficiency in English, and strong PC skills, especially in MS Office applications. Previous experience with driver assistance systems or vehicle testing is considered an advantage. The position typically requires overtime, says Tesla.
So far, no positions are listed outside of the United States, where Full Self-Driving (FSD) is available. Canada has FSD right now but no job postings for this position are listed up north.
I wouldn’t be surprised if this is the tip of the spear in getting regulatory approval for FSD and Robos. They are close enough now that they can smell it so the sooner they start gathering the info that NHTSA et al will be wanting/needing, the better.