Automotive Test Engineer (On-Road) at Mapbox

Mapbox is the leading real-time location platform for a new generation of location-aware businesses. Mapbox is the only platform that equips organizations with the full set of tools to power the navigation of people, packages, and vehicles everywhere. More than 4 million registered developers have chosen Mapbox because of the platform’s flexibility, security and privacy compliance. Organizations use Mapbox applications, data, SDKs and APIs to create customized and immersive experiences that delight their customers.  WHAT WE DO The Driver Operations team conducts weekly vehicle testing to support cross-functional development and validation efforts. Each week, we build a prioritized test plan based on incoming requests, delivery timelines, and business needs. We execute against this plan with tight coordination and clear, real-time communication to ensure test objectives are met and actionable feedback is delivered efficiently. We are constantly behind the wheel, executing test cycles, supporting special R&D activations, and representing the team in high-visibility initiatives for both internal and external stakeholders. WHAT YOU'LL DO The Automotive Test Engineer (On-Road) is responsible for planning and executing vehicle-based testing of Mapbox navigation and location technologies in production and development vehicles. This role focuses on validating system performance in live driving environments, identifying issues, and translating field observations into actionable insights for engineering teams. Working at the intersection of software, mapping, and automotive systems, this role supports product development through structured testing, detailed reporting, and close collaboration with engineering, product, and partner teams. In this role, you will - Execute on-road vehicle testing to validate navigation performance, positioning accuracy, and system behavior - Intake and synthesize testing requests from engineering, product, and partner teams - Translate requirements into clear and repeatable test cases - Define and prioritize weekly test plans based on scope, urgency, and available resources - Coordinate test execution across internal team and OEM testing partners - Support vehicle-based demos, product launches, and validation activities - Surface bugs, performance issues, and feature insights through structured feedback and reporting - Track testing metrics and maintain visibility into test coverage and outcomes - Develop deep functional knowledge of Mapbox navigation, positioning, and mapping technologies - Assist with the management and readiness of Mapbox’s test fleet - Maintain proactive communication with engineering and program stakeholders throughout the test lifecycle. WHAT WE BELIEVE ARE IMPORTANT TRAITS FOR THIS ROLE - 5+ years of experience - Automotive testing, vehicle integration, field validation, or other relevant experience in automotive systems testing - Technical fluency—comfortable working across both hardware and software in vehicle test environments. Able to independently configure devices, troubleshoot system behavior, capture logs, and diagnose issues during vehicle testing - Automotive systems knowledge - Familiarity with modern vehicle architectures including navigation systems, Android Automotive / mobile integrations, CAN bus networks, GNSS positioning, ADAS inputs, and sensor-driven vehicle systems - Command-line and debugging tools—Proficient using command-line environments (Terminal) and tools such as ADB for device communication, log collection, and diagnostics - Vehicle integration experience—Comfortable working with vehicle interfaces and test hardware, including data loggers, mobile devices, developer tablets, and prototype equipment used for in-vehicle testing - Telemetry and data analysis—Able to capture, review, and interpret system logs, performance telemetry, and drive data to identify patterns, regressions, or anomalies. - Hands-on problem solving - Resourceful when diagnosing issues with vehicle interfaces, embedded systems, network connectivity, or proprietary testing hardware. - Safety-focused driver - Demonstrates safe driving practices at all times and acts as a safety champion during vehicle-based testing activities - Strong organizational skills—Able to manage multiple test threads, prioritize requests, and track execution across distributed teams - Professional representation—Demonstrates a high level of professionalism when working directly with OEM partners. Able to represent Mapbox effectively in customer environments and collaborate constructively with engineering and partner teams - Adaptable and detail-oriented—comfortable shifting between field testing, planning, and coordination; maintains a high standard of accuracy and follow-through - Tool proficiency—Experienced with collaboration and tracking tools such as Slack, Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Calendar), Jira, Confluence, and common bug reporting systems - Valid driver’s license and passport—Willingness and flexibility to perform in-vehicle testing and travel on short notice to support demos and testing in EU locations if needed. LOCATION This role is based in the Stuttgart region and requires regular on-site work at OEM partner facilities. WHAT WE VALUE In addition to our core values [Upgrade to PRO to see link] which are not unique to this position and are necessary for Mapbox leaders: - We value high-performing creative individuals who dig into problems and opportunities. - We believe in individuals being their whole selves at work. We commit to this through supportive health care, parental leave, flexibility for the things that come up in life, and innovating on how we think about supporting our people. - We emphasize an environment of teaching and learning to equip employees with the tools needed to be successful in their function and the company. - We strongly believe in the value of growing a diverse team and encourage people of all backgrounds, genders, ethnicities, abilities, and sexual orientations to apply. By applying for this position, you acknowledge that you have received the Mapbox Non-US Privacy Notice [Upgrade to PRO to see link] for applicants, which is linked here.  Completing this application requires you to provide personal data, such as your name and contact information, which is mandatory for Mapbox to process your application.  We are committed to a fair and equitable hiring process. We do not discriminate against any protected class. #LI- Stuttgart