About this role
AutoNation is one of the largest automotive retailers in the United States, offering innovative products, exceptional services, and comprehensive solutions, empowering our customers to make the best decisions for their needs. With a network of dealerships nationwide strengthened by a recognized brand, we offer a wide variety of new and used vehicles, customer financing, parts, and provide expert maintenance and repair services. Through DRV PNK, we have raised over $40 million for cancer-related causes, demonstrating our commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of our Associates, Customers, and the communities we serve.
So what do you say? Are you ready to be part of something big?
The Autonomous Vehicle (AV) Technician is an entry-level role responsible for supporting basic inspections, maintenance, and troubleshooting tasks on autonomous vehicles. This position provides hands-on learning and development in AV hardware, sensors, electrical systems, and diagnostic procedures while assisting more experienced technicians. The Junior Technician ensures vehicle readiness, supports fleet operations, and follows established safety and technical procedures.
This role is ideal for early-career technicians, recent technical program graduates, or individuals transitioning from traditional automotive or mechanical fields into advanced mobility technology.
At AutoNation, we want our employees to feel happy, healthy, and valued as they work to provide a top-notch experience for our customers. We offer our full-time Associates great, competitive benefits such as:
- Higher income potential
- Full benefits package including Paid Time Off & 401K w/ Company match
- Longevity bonuses
- Generous employee referral bonus program for Technicians (employees can earn up to $3000 per Tech referral!)
- Employee discount on vehicle purchases, parts, & service
- Advancement opportunities
- And so much more!
Key Responsibilities
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Basic Vehicle Maintenance & Support
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Perform routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and basic repairs under the direction of senior technicians.
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Check fluid levels, tire condition, torque specs, safety systems, and general vehicle health.
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Document maintenance activities in fleet management systems.
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Assisted Diagnostics & Repair
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Support troubleshooting of mechanical, electrical, and low-voltage issues.
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Assist with basic component replacements such as sensors, wiring harnesses, modules, or mounts.
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Learn and use diagnostic tools, scan software, and testing equipment with supervision.
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Sensor & System Handling
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Assist with basic sensor cleaning, visual inspection, and mounting checks (LiDAR, radar, cameras).
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Support high-level technicians with calibration setups and test preparation.
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Learn fundamentals of perception systems and how they affect AV performance.
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AV Hardware & Software Support
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Support installation, removal, or inspection of vehicle hardware components.
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Perform basic cable routing, connector checks, and system verification steps.
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Assist with software updates, data transfers, and log collection under supervision.
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Field Operations & Testing
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Prepare vehicles for daily missions, including power checks, health verification, and readiness procedures.
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Respond to low-level field incidents, perform simple vehicle resets, and coordinate with remote monitoring teams.
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Assist during test drives, closed-course operations, and controlled scenarios.
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Safety, Documentation & Continuous Learning
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Follow all safety procedures, including high-voltage awareness, lockout/tagout, and safe tool usage.
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Maintain accurate documentation of work performed and vehicle conditions.
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Actively participate in training, mentorship, and skill development programs.
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Learn AV systems, diagnostic practices, and component functions with the goal of advancement.
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Required Qualifications
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0–2+ years of experience as an automotive, EV, mechanical, or electrical technician OR recent graduate of a technical training program.
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Basic understanding of vehicle mechanical and electrical systems.
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Ability to use hand tools and basic diagnostic equipment.
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Willingness to learn advanced AV systems, sensors, and diagnostic tools.
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Ability to lift 50 lbs, work under vehicles, and operate in field environments.
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Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
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Preferred Qualifications
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Experience with EV systems, hybrid systems, robotics, or ADAS (even at a basic level).
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Familiarity with multimeters, scan tools, or basic electrical testing.
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Technical certifications (automotive, diesel, electronics, robotics, mechatronics).
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Interest in autonomous vehicles, mobility technology, or robotics.
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Working Conditions
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On-site role; may require evening or weekend shifts depending on operations.
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Work performed in shop, lab, and outdoor environments.
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May occasionally support remote test locations.
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This full-time position offers a competitive compensation structure ranging from $22.80 to $78.00 per hour, depending on certifications, skills and experience.