Project Engineer III

Inside the Role

The Engineering Program Manager is responsible for leading complex engineering programs across Daimler Truck’s product portfolio, spanning software, systems, and conventional powertrain development (TT/S and TT/X).

This role exists to drive structured execution and alignment in an increasingly complex environment, ensuring that programs, from advanced system integration and connected workflows to core engine and powertrain initiatives, are delivered on time, on budget, and to defined quality targets.

Operating with a high degree of ownership, the Senior Engineering Program Manager translates strategic objectives into executable, integrated program plans and drives alignment across global, cross-functional teams. This role also contributes to shaping program direction, improving execution discipline, and strengthening Engineering Program Management capability through mentorship and leadership.

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 $104,000 – $133,000 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

Program Leadership

• Lead large, complex engineering programs across TT/S (e.g. software, electronics, systems integration) and TT/X (engine, aftertreatment, transmission, axle, epowertrain) domains
• Own end-to-end program execution from concept through production and/or lifecycle delivery
• Develop and maintain integrated program plans covering scope, schedule, budget, risks, assumptions, and dependencies
• Ensure alignment to development processes, milestones, and quality gate requirements

Strategic Planning

• Translate product strategy, portfolio priorities, and emerging technology initiatives into executable program roadmaps
• Support alignment of programs to broader initiatives such as system integration, platform evolution, and efficiency improvements
• Evaluate trade-offs across cost, timing, performance, and technical risk to enable informed decision-making

Cross-functional Leadership

• Lead multi-disciplinary teams across engineering, manufacturing, purchasing, finance, quality, and supply chain
• Coordinate effectively across global and regional organizations, including R&D and external partners
• Influence outcomes without direct authority, ensuring accountability across all stakeholders

Risk Management

• Establish structured risk management approaches and actively manage risks, assumptions, and dependencies
• Drive mitigation plans and escalate critical issues with clear recommendations
• Monitor program health using data-driven metrics and performance tracking

Financial & Capital Planning

• Effectively work with funding management to develop and manage program budgets, forecasts, and business cases
• Support financial planning processes and ensure alignment to cost targets
• Recommend scope or investment adjustments to maximize utility and organizational value

Engineering Execution

• Drive disciplined execution across system, software, and hardware development programs
• Ensure alignment with engineering standards, validation requirements, and product development processes
• Coordinate dependencies across components, systems, and supplier deliverables

Stakeholder Management

• Serve as the primary interface between program teams and senior leadership
• Build strong relationships across engineering, business, and external stakeholders
• Ensure alignment and transparency on program objectives, status, and decisions

Communication

• Deliver clear, concise program status, risks, and recommendations to leadership and governance forums
• Lead executive reviews and provide actionable insights to support decision-making
• Maintain consistent communication cadence across all levels of the organization

Continuous Improvement / Operational Efficiency

• Develop and drive improvements in program governance, execution processes, and reporting frameworks
• Identify and implement opportunities to simplify and standardize ways of working across programs
• Apply lessons learned to improve predictability and efficiency

Mentoring and Leadership

• Mentor and help develop less experienced engineers, PMs, and interns
• Provide guidance on program planning, execution, and stakeholder management
• Contribute to strengthening the overall Engineering Program Management discipline and team capability

Knowledge You Should Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, or a related technical field
• 5+ years of experience in engineering program/project management in the heavy duty engine industry
• 5+ years of demonstrated experience leading complex, cross-functional engineering programs
• 5+ years of demonstrated experience managing scope, schedule, budget, and risks
• Proven ability to influence without direct authority
• Proven ability to operate effectively in ambiguous and changing environments
• Proven ability to successfully implement CI initiatives 
• Strong understanding of product development lifecycle and engineering processes (i.e. CVDS, PRISM, SEDP)
• Strong communication skills, including executive-level presentations

Exceptional Candidates Might Have

• Experience across both software/system programs (TT/S) and conventional powertrain or hardware (TT/X) development
• Exposure to global product development and cross-regional teams
• Experience managing external suppliers or partners
• Experience with financial planning, capital planning, or business case development
• PMP or equivalent certification
• Advanced degree (MBA or Master’s in Engineering or related field)
• Experience with system integration
• Understand and speak German language

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.