About the Role

This is not a traditional driving job. This role emphasizes interaction with computer systems, vehicle software, and controller-based interfaces in a live operating environment. The role requires sustained attention to onboard computer systems and comfort operating technology-forward interfaces in real time.

As a Safety Operator supporting the MiCa autonomous shuttle, you are present to satisfy regulatory and safety requirements while the vehicle operates autonomously. Your primary responsibility is to monitor vehicle behavior, the surrounding environment, and passenger safety, and to intervene using a handheld controller interface (similar to a video game controller) only when absolutely necessary.

Safety Operators also serve as Technology Ambassadors, helping riders understand autonomous vehicle technology and the MiCa service in partnership with the City of Boca Raton, Circuit, and Guident.

This is a selective, premium role with limited openings. Candidates are chosen through a competitive screening and hands-on evaluation process.

Selection Process (Please Read)

This position is filled through a tryout-based selection process:

• Applicants who pass initial screening will be invited to a paid Safety Operator evaluation
• Evaluations include a driving simulation, controller-based intervention scenarios, and public interaction exercises
• A limited number of candidates will be selected for active scheduling
• Additional qualified candidates may be placed in a Certified Reserve Safety Operator Pool for future shifts, expansion, or backfill

Selection is performance-based and competitive.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the onboard Safety Operator during autonomous shuttle operations
• Monitor vehicle systems, pedestrian activity, traffic conditions, and passenger behavior at all times
• Maintain continuous interaction with onboard computer systems and respond to system alerts, prompts, and status changes in real time
• Perform full vehicle startup and shutdown procedures, including system checks and software initialization
• Operate onboard computers, tablets, and control interfaces to manage vehicle status
• Intervene using a controller-based interface only when required to ensure safe operation
• Follow all autonomous vehicle operational protocols, safety procedures, and escalation processes
• Act as a Technology Ambassador, explaining autonomous vehicle technology and service details to riders
• Provide a calm, professional, and informative presence in the vehicle
• Perform pre-shift safety inspections and post-shift securing procedures
• Coordinate vehicle staging, charging cycles, and secure parking between service blocks
• Maintain overall vehicle cleanliness and readiness, including:
• Cleaning windows as needed
• Addressing spills or debris promptly
• Ensuring the passenger area remains clean, safe, and presentable throughout service
• Maintain vehicle appearance consistent with public-facing, city-operated service standards
• Use mobile and onboard technology (iPhone, GPS, vehicle systems) to log operations and communicate with operations staff
• Adapt to dynamic conditions such as special events, pedestrian congestion, and weather
• Participate in initial training, simulations, refresher sessions, and ongoing evaluations

Qualifications

Required

• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
• Minimum of 3 years of safe driving experience
• Demonstrated comfort and proficiency with computer-based systems, including:
• Starting and shutting down computer-based systems
• Navigating software interfaces
• Following technical checklists and procedures
• Comfortable using handheld controllers, simulators, or similar control systems
• Strong situational awareness and sound judgment under pressure
• Clear communication skills and a professional, approachable demeanor
• Comfortable engaging with the public in a visible, city-facing role
• Willingness to complete paid training, evaluation, and certification
• Availability to support operations between 10:00 AM and 10:00 PM
• Ability to work four (4)-hour shifts within the operating window
• Ability to stand, sit, walk, and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs
• Must meet vehicle height and weight requirements per manufacturer specifications

Strongly Preferred

• Experience with video games, simulators, drones, or remote-controlled systems (especially those requiring precision, situational awareness, or rapid response)
• Background in hospitality, tourism, events, or customer service
• Interest in autonomous vehicles, electric vehicles, or emerging technology
• Prior safety, operations, or public-facing experience

What We Offer

• $19/hour + tips
• Paid training, evaluation, and certification
• Flexible part-time scheduling within a fixed operating window
• Opportunity to support a Level 4 autonomous vehicle deployment
• Resume-building experience in autonomous vehicle safety and operations
• Priority consideration for expanded service phases, including Royal Palm Place

Important Note

Safety Operators primarily monitor and oversee autonomous operation. Manual control using a handheld controller is rare and used only when necessary. This role requires comfort with technology, computer-based systems, and maintaining a clean, professional vehicle environment. Candidates who take pride in operational readiness and public-facing presentation tend to excel.