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Operations Supervisor, Testing

Kodiak Robotics - Lancaster, TX, United States - In-office - posted 2026-10-16

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Kodiak Robotics is seeking an Operations Supervisor, Testing to oversee daily autonomous vehicle (AV) test operations. Founded in 2018, Kodiak has become a leader in autonomous ground transportation and was the first known company to publicly announce delivering a driverless semi-truck to a customer. The company also develops autonomous capabilities for the U.S. Department of Defense. In this role, you will lead a team of Test Specialists, Safety Drivers, and Assisted Autonomy Operators, ensuring all test runs are executed safely, efficiently, and to the highest operational standards. You'll combine hands-on technical understanding with people leadership and strategic coordination. Key responsibilities include: - Supervise daily testing operations while actively supporting on-site test execution and troubleshooting - Ensure all testing activities comply with Kodiak's SOPs, safety policies, and project priorities - Collaborate with other supervisors to execute tests using a shared pool of team members to maintain consistent throughput and fleet utilization - Act as the on-shift decision-maker for operational issues, escalating critical matters as appropriate - Track and report shift-level performance metrics such as throughput, test completion rate, and issue resolution - Review team documentation for accuracy and completeness, ensuring proper escalation and communication standards - Identify process gaps or performance trends and implement corrective actions in partnership with management and engineering teams - Conduct one-on-one coaching sessions, ride-alongs, and evaluations to support skill development and operational consistency - Promote a culture of safety, professionalism, and continuous improvement across all testing teams - Ensure adherence to company policies, safety protocols, and CDL/HOS compliance requirements where applicable - Partner with other supervisors, leads, and cross-functional teams to ensure seamless shift handoffs and aligned priorities Once every four weeks, you'll travel to a remote industrial testing site to oversee a dedicated on-site crew executing dynamic testing activities, including new customer truck bring-up and integration, new software deployment validation, and additional software testing as project needs evolve. The role offers competitive compensation including equity and biannual bonuses, excellent medical, dental, and vision plans, flexible PTO, generous parental leave, disability and life insurance, wellbeing benefits (Headspace, One Medical, Gympass, Spring Health), Fidelity 401(k), commuter and dependent care FSA options, and various incentive programs. REQUIREMENTS: - 3+ years in AV testing, fleet operations, or related automotive environments - Demonstrated success in a working-lead or supervisory role within a fast-paced, safety-critical setting - Strong understanding of AV systems, testing workflows, and operational safety practices - Proven ability to manage shift-based teams while maintaining high productivity and morale - Familiarity with autonomous systems, fleet management, and test execution processes - Understanding of compliance frameworks and operational risk management principles - Skilled at maintaining calm, structured communication under pressure - Able to convey complex operational details clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences - Leadership mindset: leads with accountability and composure, balancing team oversight with hands-on involvement - Drives continuous improvement in safety, efficiency, and process discipline

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