About the role#
This internship with the Vehicle Thermodynamics and Integration (VTI) group offers hands-on experience in validating vehicle performance. You will support testing across thermal systems, environmental exposure, and powertrain integration to ensure vehicles meet real-world requirements. This role involves planning and executing summer test activities, including on-site work in high-ambient temperature and high-altitude conditions.
What you'll do#
- Support vehicle-level thermodynamics and performance testing, including cooling, aftertreatment, and air systems.
- Assist with the planning and execution of summer test activities, including vehicle instrumentation and test setup.
- Set up, operate, and troubleshoot instrumentation and data acquisition systems.
- Collect, process, and review vehicle test data, while supporting root cause analysis of thermal or performance issues.
- Work with Design Engineering, Powertrain, and other PVE teams to align testing with design intent.
- Document test results and contribute to technical reports and discussions.
- Support the improvement of test methods, fixtures, and procedures.
- Participate in a collaborative, hands-on test environment with on-vehicle work.
- Foster an inclusive and welcoming workplace culture.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in a Bachelor’s program or higher in Mechanical Engineering or a related field, or graduation within the last year.
- Junior or Senior standing is preferred.
- Strong interest in thermodynamics, vehicle performance, and hands-on testing.
- Ability to work in outdoor, lab, and vehicle test environments.
- Analytical mindset with attention to detail and structured problem-solving skills.
- Willingness to travel to support summer test activities.
- Experience with data analysis tools like Python or MATLAB is preferred.
- Exposure to vehicle testing, instrumentation, or data acquisition software like CANape is preferred.
- Coursework or project experience in heat transfer, thermodynamics, or powertrain systems is preferred.
- Strong oral and written communication skills and the ability to work in a team environment.
Location & details#
- Location: Portland, Oregon.
- Work Modality: Hybrid (4 days in-office, 1 day remote).
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Employment: Full-time internship.
- Compensation: Paid position ($21 - $29 per hour).
- Eligibility: Applicants must be legally authorized to work permanently in the United States. This position does not offer visa sponsorship.
About Daimler Truck North America
Daimler Truck North America operates as a subsidiary of Daimler Truck AG. Founded in 1942, the company produces heavy-duty and medium-duty trucks along with specialized commercial vehicles. It manages brands such as Freightliner Trucks, Western Star Trucks, and Thomas Built Buses from its headquarters in Portland, Oregon. The firm also supplies diesel engines and components while maintaining a workforce of over 10,000 employees.
How to get in at Daimler Truck North America
Securing an internship at Daimler Truck North America requires a proactive approach to their hiring cycle. Because the company receives a high volume of interest, Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, so you apply among the first. Early applicants get seen before the pile grows, which is a significant advantage in a competitive manufacturing environment. You should also focus on building professional connections early in your search. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company's roles so you can reach out directly to ask about the role or a referral. This direct communication materially improves response rates compared to submitting a resume through a general portal.
