Position
Salary

How much does a Test Driver make?

The average salary for a Test Driver is $44,903 per year in the US.

A Test Driver plays a key role in ensuring that vehicles meet safety and performance standards. This job involves driving new and existing vehicles to test their features and functions. The average yearly salary for a Test Driver is around $44,903. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the company you work for.

Test Drivers often start with a salary on the lower end of the scale. With more experience, they can earn more. For example, those with a few years of experience might earn between $40,909 and $49,818. As experience grows, so can the salary, reaching up to $121,091 for the most experienced drivers. This range shows that there are good opportunities for growth in this career.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Test Driver?

Akron, OH, offers some of the highest salaries for test drivers. The average salary there is around $124,498. This makes it a top choice for those in the field. Portland, OR, also provides a good salary, though it is lower at about $53,978. Both cities present strong opportunities for test drivers.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Test Driver jobs, highlighting Akron, OH with the highest at $124,498 and Portland, OR with the lowest at $53,978.
  1. Akron, OH
    Average Salary: $124,498
    In Akron, driving test vehicles offers a unique chance to work with major automotive companies. With a strong presence of tire manufacturing giants, test drivers here play a key role in ensuring vehicle safety and performance. The average salary for this role is around $124,498, making it a lucrative career choice.
    Find Test Driver jobs in Akron, OH


  2. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $53,978
    Portland provides a dynamic environment for those in the test driver role. The city's focus on innovation and sustainability means test drivers often work with companies that value eco-friendly practices. The average salary here is about $53,978, offering a balanced lifestyle with a growing job market.
    Find Test Driver jobs in Portland, OR

What are the best companies a Test Driver can work for?

Roush Industries offers the highest average salary for Test Driver jobs, making it a top choice for professionals in this field. Formel D and Bertrandt also provide competitive pay, with average salaries above $46,000. These companies value skilled test drivers and offer attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Test Driver jobs, highlighting Roush Industries with the highest at $54,762 and Kett Engineering Corporation with the lowest at $36,731.
  1. Roush Industries
    Average Salary: $54,762
    Roush Industries offers exciting Test Driver jobs. They operate in Michigan and North Carolina. They focus on performance vehicles and racing. This role involves testing new car models and ensuring they meet high standards.


  2. Formel D
    Average Salary: $46,050
    Formel D provides Test Driver positions with a competitive salary. They work in California and Texas. Formel D specializes in automotive engineering and racing. As a Test Driver, you will test vehicles and provide feedback to improve performance.


  3. Bertrandt
    Average Salary: $37,880
    Bertrandt offers Test Driver jobs with a focus on engineering and innovation. They operate in Germany and the United States. This role involves testing vehicles and ensuring they meet safety and performance standards. It is a great opportunity for those passionate about automotive engineering.


  4. Kett Engineering
    Average Salary: $37,487
    Kett Engineering provides Test Driver positions with a focus on engineering and innovation. They operate in Germany and the United States. This role involves testing vehicles and ensuring they meet safety and performance standards. It is a great opportunity for those passionate about automotive engineering.


  5. Kett Engineering Corporation
    Average Salary: $36,731
    Kett Engineering Corporation offers Test Driver jobs with a focus on engineering and innovation. They operate in Germany and the United States. This role involves testing vehicles and ensuring they meet safety and performance standards. It is a great opportunity for those passionate about automotive engineering.

How to earn more as a Test Driver?

Becoming a successful test driver involves more than just a passion for cars. It requires a combination of skills, experience, and strategic planning to maximize earnings. One key factor is gaining extensive experience in various types of vehicles. This includes both passenger cars and commercial vehicles. Experience allows a test driver to perform more complex tests and handle different driving conditions.

Another important factor is obtaining additional certifications and training. These can include advanced driving courses, safety training, and specialized vehicle handling. Certifications can make a test driver more valuable to employers and open up opportunities for higher-paying positions. Networking with other professionals in the industry also plays a crucial role. Building relationships can lead to job referrals and insider information about high-paying opportunities. Staying updated on the latest automotive technology and trends ensures that a test driver remains competitive. This knowledge can lead to more efficient and effective testing, which can impress employers and lead to higher pay.

Finally, seeking out roles with companies that offer performance-based bonuses can significantly increase earnings. Performance bonuses often depend on the quality and efficiency of the tests conducted. This means that a test driver who can deliver high-quality results will earn more. Additionally, considering freelance or contract work can provide more flexibility and potentially higher pay rates. Many companies hire test drivers on a project basis, and taking on multiple projects can lead to a higher overall income.

  1. Gain extensive experience in various types of vehicles.
  2. Obtain additional certifications and training.
  3. Network with other professionals in the industry.
  4. Stay updated on the latest automotive technology and trends.
  5. Seek out roles with performance-based bonuses.

Currently 38 Test Driver job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Test Driver in the US?

Learn what a Test Driver does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Test Driver today.
Position
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Test Driver
38 Job Openings