Project Engineer III - Powertrain Prototyping

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Project Engineer III - Powertrain Prototyping

Company: Daimler Truck

Location: Detroit, MI, United States

Job Type: Full time

Category: Engineering Operations / GTM Operations (Project Management Focus)

Date Posted: 2026-09-10

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: Hybrid (4 days in-office, 1 day remote)

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the end-to-end lifecycle of prototype powertrain development, from initial planning to testing initiation, with a strong emphasis on project management and operational efficiency.

• Manage and optimize prototype Bill of Materials (BOM) within SAP and supporting systems, ensuring accurate demand calculation and procurement of prototype parts.

• Lead critical change management processes for prototype BOMs, coordinating effectively with design engineering, component testing, and prototype purchasing teams.

• Facilitate cross-functional collaboration to ensure timely assembly and reservation of testing resources for powertrain prototype batches.

• Support global counterparts in the procurement of prototype powertrain components and spare part packages, contributing to overall program success.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Project Engineer," has significant operational responsibilities typical of a Project Operations or GTM Operations specialist within a manufacturing and product development environment. The focus on BOM management, demand calculation, change management, and cross-functional coordination within the prototyping lifecycle aligns strongly with operations functions that ensure efficient product development and launch.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and meticulously maintain modular prototype Bill of Materials (BOM) in SAP and other Daimler Truck-specific engineering systems.

• Define and manage New Prototype Process (NPP) Materials Management attributes within SAP for all prototype powertrain aggregates.

• Lead and execute the change management process for prototype BOM modifications, ensuring seamless part availability in collaboration with design, engineering, and series purchasing.

• Perform accurate demand calculations for prototype parts, ensuring timely and sufficient procurement for all project phases.

• Coordinate the planning, monitoring, and management of internal prototype powertrain projects from initiation through completion, ensuring adherence to timelines and resource allocation.

• Monitor project performance, identify potential bottlenecks, and recommend schedule adjustments, cost optimizations, or resource allocations to ensure project success.

• Support the procurement of prototype powertrain components and spare part packages in close coordination with program management and global team members.

• Foster strong cross-functional relationships with product design, component testing, and prototype purchasing to ensure alignment and efficient workflow.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a deep dive into the operational aspects of product development, specifically focusing on the procurement, inventory, and lifecycle management of prototype components. This is critical for GTM success as it directly impacts time-to-market and cost efficiency for new product introductions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a relevant engineering discipline. A Master's Degree in Engineering is considered a strong plus.

Experience: 5-7 years of relevant professional experience in engineering or operations, with a minimum of 2+ years specifically working with SAP or a similar Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution.

Required Skills:

• SAP/ERP Proficiency: Minimum 2 years of hands-on experience with SAP or related ERP systems, specifically in materials management, BOM configuration, or demand planning modules.

• Powertrain & Automotive Knowledge: Strong familiarity with Daimler Truck products and extensive experience within the automotive or heavy-duty truck industry.

• Bill of Materials (BOM) Management: Proven ability to create, develop, and maintain complex BOM structures, including modular and prototype-specific configurations.

• Change Management: Demonstrated experience leading and executing change management processes within a product development or manufacturing context.

• Demand Calculation & Procurement Support: Expertise in calculating quantity requirements for parts and supporting procurement activities for prototype and serial production.

• Project Management Fundamentals: Ability to plan, monitor, and manage projects, including tracking performance, identifying risks, and proposing solutions.

• Analytical Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills to independently solve complex problems with minimal guidance and identify effective solutions.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Excellent ability to work effectively with diverse teams, including design engineering, testing, and purchasing.

Preferred Skills:

• Master’s Degree in Engineering: Advanced academic qualification in an engineering field.

• German Language Fluency: Ability to communicate effectively in German, facilitating international collaboration.

• Daimler Truck SAP Mastery: In-depth knowledge of SAP supporting systems specifically tailored for Daimler Truck engineering processes.

• International Collaboration: Demonstrated experience working across different cultures and understanding varied business and technical standards.

• Cost Analysis & Purchasing Expertise: Specialized knowledge in calculation, cost analysis, and purchasing strategies for both prototype and serial production parts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirements are structured to ensure candidates possess both the technical engineering foundation and the practical operational experience with critical systems like SAP. The emphasis on automotive/heavy-duty truck industry knowledge, especially for Daimler Truck products, is crucial for immediate impact.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• BOM Management Case Studies: Examples demonstrating the creation, modification, and optimization of complex Bill of Materials, preferably within an ERP system like SAP. Highlight the impact on cost, lead time, or accuracy.

• Change Management Documentation: Showcase a project where you successfully managed significant changes to product specifications or material requirements, detailing the process, stakeholder engagement, and outcome.

• Project Planning & Execution Examples: Present projects where you were responsible for planning, executing, and monitoring timelines, resources, and deliverables, with a focus on operational efficiency.

• System Implementation/Optimization: If applicable, include examples of contributing to or managing the implementation or optimization of ERP modules, particularly those related to materials management or procurement.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Documented examples of designing or improving workflows for material procurement, BOM management, or change control processes, emphasizing efficiency gains.

• Implementation & Automation: Evidence of implementing new processes or leveraging system functionalities (like SAP) to automate tasks, reduce manual effort, and improve data accuracy.

• Measurement & Analysis: Case studies that clearly outline how you measured the success of implemented processes or system changes, using metrics such as lead time reduction, cost savings, or error rate decrease.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio for this role will demonstrate a candidate's ability to manage complex operational processes within a structured engineering environment. The focus should be on tangible results achieved through systematic process management and system utilization, particularly in BOM and change management.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Project Engineers with 5-10 years of experience in the Detroit, MI area, and considering the hybrid work arrangement and specialized skills (SAP, automotive prototyping), the estimated annual salary range is approximately $95,000 - $130,000. This estimate is subject to variation based on specific qualifications, interview performance, and internal company compensation structures.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans designed to support employee well-being.

• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) plan with company match to support long-term financial goals.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays to ensure work-life balance.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning, including access to training, workshops, and potential for further certifications.

• Hybrid Work Flexibility: A structured hybrid model offering one day of remote work per week, balancing in-office collaboration with personal flexibility.

• Employee Assistance Program: Confidential counseling and support services for personal and professional challenges.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours, likely 40 hours per week. The hybrid schedule includes 4 days in the office and 1 day remote, providing a structured yet flexible work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on research from various compensation data sources for similar engineering roles in the Detroit metropolitan area, factoring in the specified experience level and specialized technical requirements. Daimler Truck is a major employer, and benefits packages are typically competitive.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Automotive Manufacturing / Heavy-Duty Trucking. Daimler Truck is a global leader in the commercial vehicle industry, driving innovation in sustainability, electric powertrains, and autonomous driving technologies. The company operates at the forefront of technological advancement in a highly competitive and regulated market.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (over 10,000 employees). Being part of a global conglomerate offers stability, extensive resources, and opportunities for international collaboration, but may also mean more structured processes and hierarchies.

Founded: The modern Daimler Truck AG was formed in December 2021 following its spin-off from Daimler AG. However, its roots trace back to the invention of the first truck by Gottlieb Daimler in 1896, giving it a rich heritage of over a century in automotive innovation.

Team Structure:

• Operations Focus: The role sits within a powertrain prototyping team, likely a segment of the broader engineering or product development organization.

• Cross-Functional Integration: This team works closely with design engineering, component testing, prototype purchasing, program management, and potentially global counterparts.

• Reporting: The Project Engineer III will likely report to a Project Manager or Engineering Manager overseeing the powertrain prototyping initiatives.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decisions: Emphasis on using data from SAP and project tracking to inform decisions regarding BOM, demand, and resource allocation.

• Process Optimization: Continuous effort to refine prototype development workflows, change management procedures, and procurement processes for greater efficiency.

• Agile Principles (Implied): While not explicitly stated, the fast-paced nature of prototyping and the need for adaptability suggest an environment where agile principles for project execution are likely valued.

Company Website: https://www.daimlertruck.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Daimler Truck's culture is likely to be a blend of traditional automotive engineering rigor and forward-thinking innovation, especially concerning new technologies like electric and autonomous powertrains. The emphasis on collaboration and process management is key for operational success in such a large, complex organization.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as a Project Engineer III, indicating a mid-to-senior level position. It requires significant independent work, problem-solving, and the ability to guide others. It's a critical role in the product development pipeline, bridging engineering design with operational execution.

Reporting Structure: The Project Engineer III will likely report to a higher-level manager or director within the powertrain engineering or advanced engineering department. They will collaborate extensively with peers in design, testing, purchasing, and program management.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on the speed, cost-effectiveness, and accuracy of bringing new powertrain technologies to market. Efficient prototype development is crucial for validating designs, identifying issues early, and ultimately influencing the success of future production models.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in powertrain systems, prototyping methodologies, and advanced manufacturing processes.

• Project Management Leadership: Progress into more senior project management roles, leading larger and more complex engineering or operations initiatives.

• Operations Management: Transition into roles focused on broader operational strategy, supply chain management, or process improvement within the manufacturing or R&D divisions.

• International Exposure: Leverage German language skills and international collaboration experience for opportunities within Daimler Truck's global network.

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into team lead or supervisory positions within engineering operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "III" designation suggests a level of autonomy and responsibility that sets the stage for leadership. Growth opportunities will likely involve managing increasingly complex projects, leading cross-functional teams, or specializing further within the intricate world of automotive operations and engineering.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work environment. This involves a significant amount of in-office presence (4 days per week) to foster collaboration, team cohesion, and direct interaction with colleagues and potentially hands-on prototype work or facility access.

Office Location(s): Detroit, MI, specifically at the Detroit Manufacturing Plant. This location places the role within a key operational hub for Daimler Truck, offering direct exposure to manufacturing processes and engineering teams.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The 4-day in-office requirement emphasizes the importance of in-person collaboration, team meetings, and spontaneous idea-sharing essential for complex engineering and operations projects.

• Access to Resources: Proximity to a manufacturing plant suggests access to engineering labs, prototype build areas, testing facilities, and direct interaction with production teams.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular engagement with engineers, technicians, purchasing agents, and program managers involved in the prototyping lifecycle.

Work Schedule: The hybrid schedule (4 days in-office, 1 day remote) is designed to balance the need for in-person collaboration with the flexibility desired by many professionals. This structure supports focused work and team integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model with a strong emphasis on in-office days is indicative of a company that values face-to-face interaction for critical project work and team building, particularly in a hands-on environment like manufacturing and prototyping.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter review of application and resume for basic qualifications.

• Hiring Manager Interview: Assessment of technical skills, project experience, and fit with the team's immediate needs. Expect questions about SAP, BOM management, and powertrain prototyping.

• Technical/Panel Interview: In-depth discussion covering specific engineering challenges, problem-solving methodologies, and operational processes. This may include a cross-functional panel.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to present and discuss selected case studies from your portfolio, focusing on your contributions, process improvements, and quantifiable results.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership or a broader discussion on career aspirations and alignment with Daimler Truck's strategic goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Operations: Curate examples that clearly demonstrate your operational expertise in BOM management, change control, demand calculation, and project coordination within an engineering context.

• Quantify Impact: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, and the quantifiable results (e.g., X% reduction in lead time, Y% cost savings, Z% improvement in BOM accuracy).

• SAP/System Proficiency: Showcase how you've leveraged SAP or similar systems to drive efficiency, accuracy, and better decision-making in your projects.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Provide examples illustrating your ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with diverse stakeholders across engineering, purchasing, and testing.

• Prepare for "How": Be ready to explain the step-by-step processes you followed, the tools you used, and the challenges you overcame.

Challenge Preparation:

• Process Mapping: Be prepared to discuss or even sketch out a typical process for prototype BOM creation and change management.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Anticipate questions about how you would handle specific challenges, such as a critical part shortage for a prototype build or a significant design change late in the development cycle.

• System-Based Scenarios: Think about how you would approach a task in SAP, such as verifying BOM data or calculating demand for a new component.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and potential process challenges indicates that Daimler Truck is looking for candidates who can demonstrate practical application of their skills and a structured approach to problem-solving and operational execution, not just theoretical knowledge.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• SAP: Extensive use expected for Bill of Materials (BOM) management, materials management, demand calculation, and potentially procurement processes. Mastery of relevant SAP modules (e.g., MM, PP) is critical.

• Daimler Truck Specific Systems: Familiarity with internal Daimler Truck engineering and prototyping systems beyond standard SAP will be advantageous.

• Project Management Software: Tools like Microsoft Project, Jira, or similar for tracking project timelines, resources, and deliverables.

Analytics & Reporting:

• SAP Reporting: Utilizing SAP's built-in reporting capabilities to extract data on BOMs, inventory, and demand.

• Microsoft Excel: Advanced proficiency for data analysis, modeling, and creating custom reports and dashboards.

• Data Visualization Tools (Potential): Tools like Tableau or Power BI might be used for more advanced reporting and stakeholder presentations, though not explicitly mentioned.

CRM & Automation:

• ERP Integration: Understanding how SAP integrates with other systems within the Daimler Truck ecosystem.

• Workflow Automation (Internal): Awareness of potential internal tools or SAP functionalities used for automating routine tasks within the prototyping process.

📝 Enhancement Note: SAP proficiency is a non-negotiable requirement for this role. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their specific experience with SAP modules relevant to materials management, production planning, and procurement in detail.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Precision: A strong commitment to accuracy, quality, and detail in all aspects of prototype development and BOM management.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Emphasis on working effectively across departments to achieve shared project goals and drive innovation.

• Efficiency & Optimization: A continuous drive to improve processes, reduce waste, and enhance the speed and cost-effectiveness of prototype development.

• Innovation & Future Focus: Dedication to developing cutting-edge powertrain technologies that shape the future of transportation.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of responsibilities and delivering on commitments to internal and external stakeholders.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a highly collaborative environment where engineers, designers, testers, and procurement specialists work closely together on a daily basis.

• Data-Informed Dialogue: Discussions and decision-making will likely be grounded in data from SAP and project tracking systems.

• Structured Communication: While collaboration is key, communication will likely follow established protocols, especially concerning change management and project updates.

• Global Awareness: For those working with international counterparts, an awareness of cultural nuances in communication and business practices is valued.

📝 Enhancement Note: Daimler Truck's culture likely emphasizes a blend of engineering discipline, a forward-looking approach to technology, and a strong operational focus on execution and efficiency, all within a global framework.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Prototype BOMs: Managing highly dynamic and often incomplete BOMs for new technologies can be challenging, requiring constant adaptation and problem-solving.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Ensuring all stakeholders are aligned on BOM changes, timelines, and resource needs across different departments.

• Global Coordination: Working with international teams may present challenges related to time zones, communication barriers, and differing technical standards.

• Pace of Innovation: Keeping up with the rapid advancements in powertrain technology and integrating them into the prototyping process.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced SAP Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific SAP modules or gain certifications.

• Powertrain Technology: Exposure to emerging powertrain technologies (electric, hydrogen, autonomous) and their integration into prototype development.

• Project Management Methodologies: Further training and development in project management best practices, potentially leading to certifications.

• International Business Practices: Gaining experience in global project management and cross-cultural collaboration.

• Leadership Development Programs: Access to internal programs designed to foster leadership skills for future management roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle complex operational challenges at the forefront of automotive technology, providing a strong foundation for long-term career growth within a leading global company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Process Design: "Describe your process for creating and managing a Bill of Materials for a new prototype component. How would you ensure accuracy and completeness?" (Focus on SAP steps, data validation, and cross-functional checks).

• Change Management Scenario: "Imagine a critical design change is introduced late in the prototyping phase that impacts several components. How would you manage the BOM changes, assess the impact on procurement, and communicate this to stakeholders?" (Highlight your structured change management approach).

• Problem Solving: "You discover a discrepancy between the engineering design BOM and the purchasing BOM that could lead to incorrect parts being ordered. What steps do you take to resolve this?" (Emphasize analytical skills, root cause analysis, and communication).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Daimler Truck's Future: "How do you see your role contributing to Daimler Truck's vision for sustainable and future driving technologies?" (Connect your operations skills to innovation and efficiency).

• Hybrid Work: "How do you plan to maximize your productivity and collaboration in a hybrid work environment with 4 days in the office?" (Highlight your proactive approach to team engagement).

• Industry Knowledge: "What are the key challenges and opportunities you see in the heavy-duty truck industry today, particularly concerning powertrain development?" (Show your awareness of market dynamics).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Structure your portfolio case studies as narratives: the challenge, your role and actions, the solution implemented, and the measurable results.

• Focus on Operations: For each example, clearly articulate the operational processes involved (BOM management, demand planning, change control) and your specific contributions.

• Showcase SAP: If possible, use screenshots or descriptions to illustrate how you utilized SAP or other systems to achieve your objectives.

• Quantify Everything: Use numbers and data to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., "Reduced lead time by 15%", "Improved BOM accuracy by 98%", "Managed a budget of $X").

• Anticipate Questions: Be prepared to elaborate on any aspect of your portfolio, especially regarding technical details, challenges faced, and lessons learned.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of operational processes, proficiency with SAP, and the ability to apply analytical and problem-solving skills to real-world engineering challenges within the automotive context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Daimler Truck North America careers portal via the provided link.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight specific achievements related to Bill of Materials (BOM) management, SAP/ERP system usage, demand calculation, change management, and project coordination within engineering or manufacturing environments. Use keywords from the job description.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 strong case studies that best showcase your operational expertise, focusing on quantifiable results and your role in process improvement and system utilization. Prepare to present these clearly and concisely.

• Research Daimler Truck: Understand the company's current strategic initiatives, particularly in electric and future driving technologies, and how your role supports these goals. Familiarize yourself with their product portfolio.

• Prepare for SAP Questions: Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with SAP, including specific modules used, types of tasks performed, and any challenges overcome. Practice explaining your workflow.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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