Inside the Role
The Product Defect Investigator is responsible for monitoring and evaluating in-field performance of commercial trucks to identify potential safety defects, quality concerns, and regulatory non-compliance. This role conducts detailed, data-driven investigations and root cause analyses using field data, warranty information, and engineering insights. Findings are presented to senior leadership to support timely decisions regarding recalls, field campaigns, or other corrective actions.The position also ensures compliance with federal safety regulations and internal standards by preparing and submitting regulatory filings, including defect reports and certification documentation, to applicable agencies. In addition, the investigator interprets evolving regulatory requirements and provides impact assessments and recommendations to guide business decisions.
Working cross-functionally with engineering, quality, legal, and marketing teams, the Product Defect Investigator provides guidance on product design changes, validation testing, labeling, and technical documentation to ensure products meet safety, performance, and compliance expectations. This role requires strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills, and plays a critical part in protecting customer safety and maintaining regulatory compliance.
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 salary range of $104,000 to $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
• Investigates potential product defects withing trucks in the field for non compliance or safety related concerns.
• Presents investigations to upper management in order to determine next steps for potential recalls or internal campaigns.
• Ensures DTNA products are in compliance with external regulations and internal standards.
• Files product notifications, approval applications, and quality testing results with applicable government and regulatory agencies.
• Interprets and evaluates proposed regulations and advises management on impact to the organization.
• Implements and audits processes to ensure compliance with applicable regulations and internal standards.
• Provides advice to development and/or marketing teams on product changes, quality testing requirements, product labelling, literature, and advertising.
Knowledge You Should Bring
• Bachelors Degree in Engineering or related field, or equivalent practical experience
• Typically requires 5-7 years of relevant experience or 8 years of relevant experience in lieu of degree
• Requires in-depth knowledge and expertise in job field and working knowledge of related disciplines
• Uses analytical thought to independently solve complex problems with minimal guidance and identify solutions
• May lead team or department projects or work streams within broader projects
• Acts as an advisor to management and key external stakeholders on job field related projects
• Acts as a resource and guide for colleagues with less experience
• Uses experience to contribute to standards in which others will operate
• Strong analytics skills
• Effective interpersonal & communication skills and the ability to work effectively with others
• Demonstrated experience performing data analysis
Exceptional Candidates Might Have:
• Legal and/or regulatory experience (Automotive related)
• Problem solving experience
• Hands on knowledge of commercial trucks
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:
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.
