Sr. Operations Specialist

John Deere John Deere · Industrial · Fresno, CA +2 · Product Engineering (CA)

This role focuses on conducting autonomous vehicle data collection operations, executing field data collection runs, operating and monitoring autonomous vehicle systems to capture high-quality datasets. It involves setting up and testing new products, designing and executing test procedures, evaluating and refining data collection procedures, and translating field observations into actionable feedback for engineering teams. The role also includes maintaining and troubleshooting equipment, prioritizing workflow, and adhering to safety and regulatory requirements. Experience with autonomous vehicle systems or agricultural robotics, and data collection workflows supporting machine learning development are considered advantageous.

What you'd actually do

  1. Conduct autonomous vehicle data collection operations across the Central Valley.
  2. Execute regular field data collection runs, operating and monitoring autonomous vehicle systems to capture complete, high-quality datasets.
  3. Set up and test new products or processes; install complex systems with guidance.
  4. Design and execute test procedures based on product specifications.
  5. Evaluate and refine data collection procedures, identifying gaps or inefficiencies and implementing improvements through established change management programs.

Skills

Required

  • Experience operating and monitoring complex systems, preferably in field or autonomous environments.
  • Ability to execute structured data collection and ensure high data quality standards.
  • Strong troubleshooting and preventive maintenance skills for equipment and vehicles.
  • Ability to follow technical specifications to design and execute test procedures.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize workflow and meet deadlines.
  • Familiarity with safety procedures, compliance standards, and escalation protocols.
  • Ability to document observations clearly and communicate issues effectively.
  • Willing and able to obtain a Class A drivers license

Nice to have

  • Experience working with autonomous vehicle systems or advanced agricultural/field robotics.
  • Background in data collection workflows supporting machine learning development.
  • Experience identifying process gaps and implementing improvements.
  • Ability to translate technical field observations into structured engineering feedback.
  • Experience mentoring junior team members or providing hands-on training.
  • Familiarity with structured change management programs and performance tracking systems.

What the JD emphasized

  • autonomous vehicle data collection
  • field data collection runs
  • operating and monitoring autonomous vehicle systems
  • capture complete, high-quality datasets
  • evaluate and refine data collection procedures
  • documenting system behavior, edge cases, and data quality issues
  • maintain, troubleshoot, and prepare data collection equipment and vehicles