BEV Systems Engineering Intern — Energy, Thermal & Analytics Intern

Location: Portland, OR US

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.

We are looking for a highly motivated and technically driven engineering Intern to join our next-generation Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) development team. This is a unique, hands-on opportunity to be part of a sustainable commercial transportation development — working directly on the next generation of Class 8 electric truck platform. Selected candidate will play an active role in evaluating how well the vehicle's energy management systems and thermal management controls perform under lab and real-world conditions. As we validate the next-generation class 8 BEV platform, the volume and complexity of test data generated across energy and thermal systems is immense. AI is an active tool in our engineering workflow, enabling faster insights, smarter testing, automated performance attribution, and ultimately, a better and safer electric truck on the road.

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

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 the design, execution and analysis of validation test plans for the class 8 BEV prototype.

Support performance evaluations in controlled and real-world operating conditions.

Apply AI-assisted test planning tools to optimize test matrix coverage, reduce redundant test cycles, and intelligently prioritize test scenarios based on historical data patterns and system sensitivity analysis.

Automate the generation of performance reports using AI-assisted data summarization tools by delivering structured test summaries, highlight outliers, and flag systems that fall below performance benchmarks — reducing reporting time significantly.

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)

Currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Systems Engineering, Computer Science or a closely related field.

Technical Skills

foundational knowledge of electric vehicle powertrains, high-voltage battery systems, and EV energy/thermal systems.

Understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid systems as applied to automotive or electro-mechanical systems.

Exposure to vehicle dynamics, driveline systems, or commercial vehicle platforms is advantageous.

Strong analytical and problem-solving mindset with keen attention to detail.

Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team environment alongside controls engineers, systems engineers, and vehicle test specialists.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills — ability to present technical findings clearly.

Self-motivated, curious, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, prototype development environment where ambiguity and rapid iteration are the norm.

Experience with MATLAB, Python, or similar data analysis tools.

Solid organizational skills

Creative mindset

Interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team environment

#LI-Hybrid

Where We Work

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

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 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 s