Project Engineer III

Inside the Role

Inside the role: The Test Planner Platform (TPP) Engineer is a key role for the New Prototype Process (NPP) in powertrain engineering. The TPP is responsible for managing the prototype powertrain process, to ensure correct planning, configuration & supply of prototype Daimler Truck engine, aftertreatment, (e)axle, and transmission aggregates for worldwide testing. The TPP is responsible for operational management of aggregates through the planning and assembly phases. Responsibilities include the creation and ownership of Batch Planning & coordination of prototype timelines (Steckbrief). Definition of aggregate configurations (GuFL) and loading engines into NPP (SAP tool). Coordination with internal and external customers to integrate requirements into powertrain systems that are required for Detroit and global development programs. Documentation and communication to local and global executives regarding prototype powertrain planning and progress. This role also incorporates the responsibilities of the Assembly Prep (AP) role in NPP. The AP owns the quality and completeness of incoming order information and serves as interface between component engineering, the prototype materials crib, Materials Management, and Assembly. Parts reservation and/or parts picking are triggered by the AP who chooses which parts are sent to measurement or Assembly. Any changes made during assembly are correctly entered in the 100% BoM. AP is also responsible for obtaining FiNAS parts IDs for the entire 100% BoM, and for final documentation of prototypes in FiNAS after assembly. The AP steers the daily activities for prototyping activity in the Detroit Test Center, monitoring the progress against project plans and taking action to resolve operational problems and minimize delays.

Posting Information

We provide a scheduled posting end date to assist our candidates with their application planning. While this date reflects our latest plans, it is subject to change, and postings may be extended or removed earlier than expected.

We Take Care of Our Team

What You Drive at DTNA

• Ownership of prototype powertrain Batch Planning, including coordination of prototype batch Steckbrief timelines. 
• Creating and communicating future powertrain demand plans in upcoming years to steer Detroit Test Center capacity and resource planning
• Proactively lead cross functional meetings to fulfill milestones, accomplish Targets, and address program risks.  Escalation of risk items in steering meetings and w/management & key stakeholders.
• Documents and resolves reported prototype powertrain process issues and develops process improvement strategies.
• Develop and implement standard training cadence for team and key stakeholders
• Implementation of new powertrain aggregates into the NPP process, including transmissions
• Manage daily Shop Floor Management meeting to highlight all actions needed on prototype materials for new engine, axle, and transmission builds. 
• Accountable for achieving and maintaining 100% BoM completeness by partnering with Component Engineering (BTV) and Material Management to resolve all missing parts.
• Develop, design and maintain prototype material forecasts and BoM visualization tools to support build planning and decision-making.
• Evaluate future build requirements and proactively identify and report out material shortages, timing risks, and recovery plans.
• Communicate any parts discrepancies to appropriate departments  
• Manage various BoM reviews throughout the prototyping process and lead potential gaps with cross functional teams
• Push final as assembled BoM to FiNAS through SAP tools. 

Knowledge You Should Bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Engineering Technology or relevant engineering degree requirement
• 5-7 years of relevant experience
• 2+ years of experience required with powertrain BoMs
• Strong technical knowledge of Daimler Truck products required, including axles, diesel engines, and transmissions.
• Strong knowledge of Daimler Truck development process required
• Experience in automotive/heavy duty truck industry or related experience required
• Analytically solve complex problems with minimal guidance and identify solutions
• Ability to lead department or cross-functional programs of notable risk, resource requirements and/or complexity
• Temperament to serve as a guide for others in area of expertise
• Ability to act as an advisor to management and key external stakeholders on broad-ranging projects
• Use experience to contribute to standards in which others will operate
• Proficient in writing technical reports and written procedures.  
• Strong collaboration and communication skills.
• Self-motivated and driven analytical proactive approach to identifying and solving challenges.

Exceptional Candidates Might Have

• International collaboration experience such as demonstrated ability to work across borders, understanding different cultural approaches to business and technical standards
• Mastery in SAP supporting systems unique to Daimler Truck engineering
• German language fluency

Where We Work

This position is open to applicants who can work in (or relocate to) the following location(s)-

Detroit, MI US. Relocation assistance is not available for this position.

Schedule Type:

Hybrid (4 days per week in-office / 1 day remote). This schedule builds our #OneTeamBestTeam culture, provides an unparalleled customer experience, and creates innovative solutions through in-person collaboration.

At Daimler Truck North America, we recognize our world is changing faster than ever before. By listening to the needs of today, we’re building to solve with cutting-edge solutions in sustainability and future driving technology across electric, hydrogen and autonomous. These solutions, backed by years of innovative success and achievement, continue DTNA’s legacy as the undisputed industry leader. Our evolving brand portfolio is second to none, including Freightliner Trucks, Western Star, Demand Detroit, Thomas Built Buses, Freightliner Custom Chassis, and Financial Services. Together, we work as one team towards our envisioned future – building a cleaner, safer and more efficient tomorrow for all.

That is what we are working toward - for all who keep the world moving.

Additional Information

• This position is not open for Visa sponsorship or to existing Visa holders
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work permanently in the country the position is located in at the time of application
• Final candidate must successfully complete a criminal background check
• Final candidate may be required to successfully complete a pre-employment drug screen
• Contractors, professional services, or other contingent workers should confirm with their local agency if they are eligible to apply for FTE positions
• EEO - Disabled/Veterans

Daimler Truck North America is committed to workforce inclusion and providing an environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, age, marital status, family relationship, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression (including transgender and transitioning status), genetic information, or veteran status.

For an accommodation or special assistance with applying for a posted position, please contact our Human Resources department at 503-745-8982 or toll free 800-206-3369. For TTY/TDD enabled call 503-745-2137 or toll free 866-355-6935.