Autonomous Vehicle Operator (CDL-A)

The Company

Outrider is a software company that is automating distribution yards with electric, self-driving trucks. Our system eliminates manual tasks that are hazardous and repetitive while it improves safety and efficiency. Outrider’s mission is to drive the rapid adoption of sustainable freight transportation. We are a private company founded in 2018 and backed by NEA, 8VC, Koch Disruptive Technologies, NVIDIA, and other top-tier investors. Our customers are Fortune 200 companies and our autonomous trucks are already running in distribution yards. For more information, visit www.outrider.ai

The Role (Temporary 6-Month Position) | Shift: Monday - Friday, 6:00am - 3:00pm

The Autonomous Vehicle Operator (CDL-A) reports to the Head of AV Site Operations and is responsible for safely operating and monitoring Outrider’s self-driving vehicle system in manual, partial, or full automation modes. This hands-on role involves identifying and addressing safety risks, taking control when needed, and closely observing vehicle performance both from the cab and through a software-based monitoring tool. The ideal candidate is focused, detail-oriented, and quick to make sound, safety-first decisions in a fast-paced environment.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Safely operate vehicles in the cab for 8–10+ hours daily.
• Conduct daily safety inspections of trucks, equipment, and work areas; proactively suggest safety improvements and respond promptly to safety or performance issues.
• Provide detailed verbal and written test reports on system and vehicle performance for Engineering, Operations, Customer Success, and Executive teams.
• Perform preventative maintenance, including preparation, installation, and upkeep of vehicle hardware.
• Support root-cause analysis with commercial, operations, and engineering teams.
• Carry out minor repairs following engineering guidance and OEM instructions.
• Communicate issues and performance feedback to AV Dispatchers and Engineering peers.
• Follow all safety policies and wear required safety equipment.
• Travel for fieldwork up to 20%, based on customer location.

Required Qualifications

• Current Class A CDL valid in Colorado, Arizona, and other requested states (must be carried on the job)
• Minimum 3 years of verifiable Class A tractor-trailer driving experience
• Skilled and safe backing with various trailer types in dynamic yard settings
• Clean driving record for the past 5 years
• Flexible to work day, night, and weekend shifts, sometimes on short notice
• Strong safety focus and commitment to system improvements
• Comfortable using desktop software and web applications
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Available for a two-week paid training at Outrider’s Brighton, CO headquarters

Ideal qualifications

• Yard hostler experience in distribution centers
• Autonomous vehicle knowledge or experience
• Background in operations, technology, robotics, or automotive fields
• Vehicle maintenance experience
• Familiarity with issue ticketing systems like Fleetio, Jira, or Zendesk

Comp & Benefits

• Hourly rate: $25.00–$28.00
• Employee stock option grant
• $200 monthly food stipend
• $50 monthly cell phone stipend
• 3 weeks PTO
• Actual pay varies based on skills, experience, qualifications, and work location. Outrider may assign additional or different tasks as needed.