Inside the Role
An entry level Thermal Management Controls Engineer (L7) to support the development of thermal control systems for a battery electric class 8 vehicle (BEV). This role focuses primarily on thermal management controls (battery, power electronics, electric powertrain, and vehicle thermal loops), with additional exposure to Low Voltage (LV) Powernet. The position offers hands on experience in controls development, system integration, and vehicle validation, while working closely with cross functional teams across thermal simulation, thermal hardware, electrical, software, and vehicle integration.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 $71,000.00 - $91,000.00 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
Thermal Management Controls (Primary Focus)
· Support the development, modeling, and validation of thermal management control strategies for BEV vehicles.
· Assist with control algorithm development using MATLAB/Simulink and related embedded controls toolchains.
· Support simulation‑based development, including component‑level and system‑level thermal/controls models.
· Participate in SiL, HiL, and vehicle testing to validate thermal control performance and robustness.
· Support definition and review of control‑related requirements, interfaces, and diagnostics for thermal systems.
· Collaborate with thermal hardware, energy management, and vehicle integration teams to ensure system‑level performance and consistency.
LV Powernet (Secondary Focus)
· Support LV powernet integration activities and interactions between thermal controllers and LV electrical architecture.
· Assist in reviewing LV-related requirements, interfaces, and diagnostics relevant to energy systems.
· Participate in cross‑functional discussions with EE, controls, and software teams to ensure correct electrical behavior of thermal systems.
AI & Modern Engineering Tool Usage
· Use or develop skills using AI‑assisted engineering tools for tasks such as code review, requirements analysis, model debugging, test result analysis, or documentation support.
· Demonstrate openness and curiosity toward applying AI to improve engineering efficiency and quality.
Knowledge You Should Bring
- Bachelor’s degree in Control Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Embedded Systems, or a related field, and 0-2 years of experience is required.
- Fundamental understanding of control systems, including feedback control concepts.
- Exposure to MATLAB/Simulink or equivalent control modeling environments.
- Basic understanding of automotive or commercial vehicle systems, preferably thermal and/or electrical systems.
- Willingness and ability to learn vehicle development processes, tools, and standards.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to clearly articulate technical concepts and deliver presentations.
- An attached resume is required
Exceptional Candidates Might Have
- Academic or internship experience with thermal systems, thermal controls, or energy management.
- Experience or coursework involving model‑based design, simulation, or embedded controls.
- Basic familiarity with battery electric vehicle (BEV) architectures.
- Exposure to vehicle networks and protocols (e.g., CAN, LIN, Automotive Ethernet).
- Python or equivalent scripting languages for analysis or automation.
- Data analysis or scripting tools used to support engineering automation or testing.
- Prior experience (academic or practical) using AI tools to support engineering tasks, or strong interest in learning them.
#LI-RR1 #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 is not available for this position.Schedule Type:
OnsiteAt 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.

