Inside the Role

Interns will gain knowledge and experience through exciting and real-life learning opportunities. Interns must work in accordance with DTNA’s core values of passion, respect, integrity and discipline. Internship positions can be located at various DTNA locations across the US. We are looking for high performing and motivated individuals in various areas within DTNA organizations. DTNA internships begin each summer in May or June.

Interns in this role may have the opportunity to transition into a full-time position subject to manager evaluations and business availability.

The Truck Operating Systems (TOS) and Continuous Improvement team drives operational excellence across DTNA manufacturing operations by applying Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies. As a TOS/Continuous Improvement Intern, you will work alongside experienced professionals to support process improvement initiatives, analyze operational performance, and help identify opportunities to improve efficiency, quality, safety, and productivity.

This internship provides hands-on exposure to Lean Manufacturing tools, project management, operational analytics, and cross-functional collaboration. You'll have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects that support manufacturing excellence while developing problem-solving, leadership, and continuous improvement skills within a global organization.

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

Salary placement is determined by your anticipated graduation year and ranges between $21 - $29 per hour.

Benefits include:

• Professional development and networking events, including resume reviews/mock interviews

• Housing and transportation stipend

• Employee resource groups

• Event ticket offering (based on corporate availability)

• Company social events

What You Drive at DTNA

• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, delivery, and productivity across manufacturing operations.

• Assist with collecting, analyzing, and reporting operational performance data to help teams identify improvement opportunities.

• Participate in Lean Manufacturing activities, including Kaizen events, 5S initiatives, value stream mapping, and process improvement workshops.

• Support the implementation and sustainment of Lean tools such as Visual Factory Management, Takt Time analysis, setup reduction, and flow production concepts.

• Assist teams in developing metrics, tracking progress, and measuring the impact of continuous improvement efforts.

• Help identify and document opportunities to eliminate waste and improve operational efficiency.

• Contribute to the development of standard work, best practices, and process documentation.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams across manufacturing, engineering, operations, and support functions to drive project success.

• Promote teamwork, innovation, continuous learning, and DTNA's commitment to an inclusive workplace culture.

• Lead and support efforts to foster an inclusive and welcoming workplace culture where everyone belongs

Knowledge You Should Bring

• Must be currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s program or higher from an accredited college/university OR have recently graduated within 1 year of the position start date (May/June)

  • Must be working toward a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, Business, or a related discipline.

• Interest in manufacturing operations, Lean Manufacturing, and continuous improvement methodologies.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret data and identify process improvement opportunities.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to present findings and recommendations.

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

• Ability to work effectively both independently and within cross-functional teams.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.

• Demonstrated initiative, curiosity, and commitment to continuous learning.

• Strong attention to detail and a proactive approach to completing assignments.

• Enthusiasm for improving processes and driving operational excellence in a manufacturing environment.

Where We Work

This position is open to applicants who can work in (or relocate to) the following location(s)- Mount Holly, NC US. Relocation assistance for this position is available when the selected candidate meets eligibility criteria.

Schedule Type: Onsite

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 to 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.