Inside the Role

Daimler Truck’s DETROIT Powertrain Test Center is seeking a highly motivated Controls Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will contribute as a key member of the engineering group responsible for end-to-end test systems integration, supporting powertrain, engine, and component test benches across both conventional diesel and emerging alternative propulsion technologies. You will be responsible for the management and upkeep of industrial control systems that support test bench infrastructure and equipment. This includes ensuring seamless integration with various test automation and data acquisition systems. The role also involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams within the test center and manufacturing plant to diagnose and resolve test bench downtime, with a focus on maximizing uptime and operational performance. Additionally, this position emphasizes proactively identifying and leading technology improvement initiatives, particularly in enhancing test field data observability to support more efficient and informed operations.

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 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 DTNA:

• Design, Implement, Support PLC and HMI control software and hardware across test benches, testing infrastructure, and various equipment; both existing and new projects

• Support variable frequency drives, provide technical assistance in troubleshooting and repairs

• Work with engineers, union technicians, and external suppliers on various systems across the test center including process HVAC, process media, safety detection systems, etc.

• Utilize structured problem-solving methods to identify root cause and integrate corrective actions into new or existing processes

• Manage test center operational technology network in alignment with Daimler Truck IT compliance and cyber security requirements

• Implement and support test center Operational Technology monitoring and interfaces for integration into higher level systems for data observability

• Research and apply new industry controls technology and methodology to existing systems and processes with the goal of optimizing operational efficiency

• Create, implement, and maintain controls documentation, including electrical schematics, system design diagrams, safety/control matrices, equipment specifications and operating manuals

• Interface with other control engineers within Daimler Truck including manufacturing environment to ensure controls technology and methodology commonization across the organization

• Lead cross-functional activities including daily support tasks and test center infrastructure projects

• undefined

Knowledge You Should Bring:

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, or related fields (ABET Accredited University)

• Minimum 2 years of relevant experience within manufacturing or automotive testing industry

• Minimum 2 years of experience with systems design principles, controls and automation technology and methodologies

• 1+ years of experience working with high power circuits up to 480vac and low voltage control circuits

• 1+ years of experience working with fieldbus, industrial ethernet, and industrial IoT communication protocols (Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP, OPC UA, IO-Link)

• 1+ years of experience with CAD software and electrical print packages (AutoCAD Electrical, EPlan Electric P8, Solidworks Electrical

• 1+ years of experience with troubleshooting PLC driven equipment, identifying and solving root-cause of complex problems

• Demonstratable knowledge of Siemens PLC, HMI, and electrical hardware products

• Demonstratable knowledge of Siemens software (TIA Portal Suite, STEP 7, WinCC, Safety, Starter, PRONETA)

• Demonstratable knowledge of Siemens programming languages (LAD, FBD, SCL)

• Proficient in technical reports, written procedures, and documentation

• Strong analytical thinking, effective communication skills, capacity for teamwork and collaboration

Exceptional Candidates Might Have:

• Experience working with Siemens SINAMICS G and S-series drive systems and large AC motors

• Experience working with additional industrial protocols (EtherCAT, Modbus, CAN, MQTT, BACnet/IP)

• Experience working with non-Siemens PLCs and industrial controller software and hardware (Beckoff TwinCAT, ABB Automation Builder, Alley-Bradley Studio 5000)

• Hands-on experience with control panel building

• Experience with SCADA systems and integrating Edge devices (Ignition, FactoryTalk, VTScada)

• Experience with Windows application programming (C#, Python, .NET), database management (MS SQL Server, InfluxDB) and dashboarding tools (Grafana)

#LI-DC1 #LI-ONSITE

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.