Mechanical Product Validation Engineer I - Vehicle Thermodynamics & Integration (VTI)

TasksInside the RoleProduct Validation Engineering's Vehicle Thermodynamics & Integration (VTI) group is responsible for validating vehicle operation in areas such as thermal systems, environmental exposure, full vehicle performance, and powertrain integration. This entry-level role supports hands-on vehicle testing and data analysis to ensure current and future DTNA vehicles meet both legal validation and customer usage requirements.This position is well suited for an early-career engineer who wants to build deep experience in vehicle performance testing, seasonal test execution, and real-world validation environments.Posting InformationWe 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 TeamPosition offers a starting salary range of $71,000.00 - $91,000.00 USDPay offered dependent on knowledge, skills, and experienceBenefits include annual bonus program; 401k company contribution with company match up to 6% as well as non-elective company contribution of 3 - 7% depending on age; starting at 4 weeks paid vacation; 13+ calendar holidays; 8 weeks paid parental leave; employee assistance program; comprehensive healthcare plans and wellness programs; onsite fitness (at some locations); tuition assistance and volunteer paid time off; short-term and long-term disability plans.What You Drive at DTNASupport vehicle-level thermodynamics and performance testing, including cooling, aftertreatment systems, air systems, and environmental exposureAssist with planning and execution of Summer Test and Winter Test activities, including vehicle instrumentation, test setup, and daily test supportSupport testing in specialized facilities such as the Climatic Wind Tunnel and Cold ChamberHelp set up, operate, and troubleshoot instrumentation and data acquisition systemsCollect, process, and review vehicle test data; support root cause analysis of thermal or performance issuesWork closely with Design Engineering, Powertrain, and other PVE teams to align testing with design intentDocument test results and contribute to summaries, reports, and technical discussionsSupport continuous improvement of test methods, fixtures, and proceduresParticipate in a collaborative, hands-on test environment with on-vehicle workKnowledge you Should BringBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or closely related field and 0-2 years of relevant engineering, co-op, or internship experienceStrong interest in vehicle performance, thermodynamics, and hands-on testingAbility to work in outdoor, lab, and vehicle test environmentsAnalytical mindset with attention to detail and structured problem solvingClear written and verbal communication skillsSome travel required to support Summer Test and Winter Test activitiesAn attached resume is requiredExceptional Candidates Might HaveCoursework or project experience in thermodynamics, heat transfer, or powertrainExposure to vehicle testing, instrumentation, or data acquisitionFamiliarity with test or analysis tools (e.g., CANape or similar)Experience working in team-based engineering environments#LI-RR1 #LI-HybridWhere We WorkThis position is open to applicants who can work in (or relocate to) the following location(s)-Portland, OR 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 InformationThis position is not open for Visa sponsorship or to existing Visa holdersApplicants must be legally authorized to work permanently in the country the position is located in at the time of applicationFinal candidate must successfully complete a criminal background checkFinal candidate may be required to successfully complete a pre-employment drug screenContractors, professional services, or other contingent workers should confirm with their local agency if they are eligible to apply for FTE positionsEEO - Disabled/VeteransDaimler 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.QualificationsPlease see above for qualification details