ALSO READICYMI
In a bid to enhance its driving capabilities, electric vehicle (EV) company Tesla is seeking individuals to drive its EVs during the summer season.
The company has posted a series of job openings on its careers website over the past two weeks, announcing its search for candidates to gather “high quality data that will contribute to the improvement of our vehicles’ performance.”
While Tesla has previously employed test drivers, the recent influx of job listings suggests the company may be placing greater emphasis on internal testing rather than relying solely on data provided by Tesla owners.
Real-time data from owners has been helpful in testing various software programs, including the beta Full Self-Driving initiative. However, the surge in new job postings indicates a shift towards more extensive internal testing methods.
Test drivers at Tesla play a crucial role in refining the Autopilot driver-assist feature and beta Full Self-Driving software. These drivers operate specially equipped Tesla vehicles, outfitted with an array of sensors.
Former test driver John Bernal revealed that they often simulate scenarios designed to challenge Tesla’s Full Self-Driving software, such as forming intersections and left-hand turns. The resulting data is carefully reviewed and used by data labelers at Tesla facilities.
No formal degree is required for the position, but applicants must possess a “clean driving record, safe driving habits, and a minimum of 4 years of licensed driving experience,” as outlined in the job listing.
The position comes with competitive pay rates ranging from $18 to $48 per hour, alongside comprehensive benefits, as stated in the job posting.
Adhering to New York state law, Tesla has transparently provided salary expectations in all its advertisements.
It is worth noting that Tesla has faced scrutiny in the past regarding the alleged collection of data from its EV owners.
Earlier this year, the company was confronted with a class-action lawsuit when it was revealed that Tesla employees had access to photos and videos captured by cameras utilized for the company’s driving assistance programs.
Some employees reportedly shared and made light of this footage internally. Despite requests for comments, Tesla remained silent on the matter.
