Performance Test Systems Engineer II

Inside the Role

Daimler Truck North America is the market leader and thrives as the voice of the trucking industry.

At the Detroit Powertrain Test Center, we lead the validation of powertrain systems for the Daimler Truck brand, encompassing both conventional diesel and electric components. In this role, you will be responsible for planning, executing, and overseeing high-quality testing of the Road to 2 Phase 1 and Phase 2 (R2R P1 & P2) test assets within a laboratory setting.

You will be accountable for scientific research and quality testing, with a focus on maximizing test utilization through the development and integration of full-system tools and workflows. This includes achieving data quality key performance indicators (KPIs) and maintaining test schedules to meet engineering commitments and deliverables.

Key responsibilities include:

• Developing and refining procedures to ensure test setups and executions align with established engineering standards.
• Collaborating directly with product engineers, engineering supervisors, technicians, and test center support staff to create test instructions, troubleshoot issues, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Supporting unmanned testing operations to meet monthly KPI goals.
• Working cross-functionally with engineering teams to capture test requirements, analyze data, and communicate results effectively.

Additionally, you will play an active role in innovation projects aimed at enhancing safety, productivity, workflow connectivity, and automation standardization across the test center

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

Position offers a starting salary range of $90,000 - $115,000 USD

Pay offered dependent on knowledge, skills, and experience 

Benefits include annual bonus program; 401k includes up to 8% match and nonelective contribution; full coverage benefit plan options; starting at 4 weeks paid vacation; 13+ calendar holidays; 8 weeks paid parental leave; employee assistance program; comprehensive health and wellness programs; onsite fitness; tuition assistance and volunteer paid time off.

What You Drive at DTNA

• Performance testing related topics that drive the development, validation and launch of conventional and electric powertrains.
• Develop and implement continuous improvement engineering initiatives, processes, methods, tools, etc.
• Assist in producing thorough, accurate performance systems test data to meet engineering customer and regulatory standards/requirements.
• Create and oversee engineering projects, timelines and assist management with defining budget requirements.
• Researches, evaluates, and recommends investments in technology, equipment, systems, or other assets that will enhance the test center’s performance.
• Reduce downtime by utilizing problem solving skills, and tracking common component or vehicle systems failures.
• Develop, implement, maintain standard work Instructions & automation processes to optimize efficiencies with the R2R P1 & P2 test assets.
• Maintain daily alignment with technician group supervisor and the performance test engineers group leader to ensure operational effectiveness on R2R P1 & P2 test assets.
• Help troubleshoot operational and/or data quality issues related to engine, e-axle testing, and/or vehicle systems testing. This includes effective follow-up and reporting to confirm issues are resolved.
• Make support request to the appropriate workgroup supervisor, and follow up with workgroup supervisor to ensure assignments are completed to minimize testing downtime. 
• Evaluate R2R P1 & P2 test assets weekly metrics, ensure best practices are utilized, and adhere to all DTNA policies and collective bargaining agreements.
• Lead and participate in R2R P1 & P2 test assets group shop floor management meetings (SFM).
• Lead R2R P1 & P2 test assets planning and results review meetings on a varying cadence.
• Ensure safety procedures and 5S principles are maintained in accordance with company policy.

Knowledge You Should Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, or related fields (ABET Accredited University)
• 2--4 years of relevant experience required.
• Technical knowledge on DTNA vehicle systems with electric battery and/or diesel.
• Technical knowledge of internal combustion and electric