Engineering Technician - Vehicle Test at Detroit Diesel Corporation — Detroit, MI

Inside the Role

Vehicle Test Center Technician assignments will entail a wide range of responsibilities, including DOT requirements, completing strenuous work with medium & heavy-duty vehicles & powertrains, extensive driving and travel to support testing & prototype builds.

Posting Information

We Take Care of Our Team

This position offers a starting salary range of $65,000-$105,000

Benefits Include:

Dental Insurance. Health Insurance. Retirement Pension. 401k (non-matching). Life Insurance. Paid Time off. Tuition Assistance. Vision insurance. UAW 412

## What You'll Drive at DTNA

• Support vehicle development and validation testing programs for medium- and heavy-duty trucks.
• Build, modify, repair, and maintain prototype and production-intent vehicles.
• Install instrumentation, sensors, and data acquisition systems to support engineering test objectives.
• Conduct vehicle testing in controlled and real-world operating conditions.
• Perform vehicle inspections, diagnostics, troubleshooting, repairs, and maintenance activities.
• Collect, document, and communicate test observations and results to engineering teams.
• Support customer evaluations and field validation programs.
• Ensure all vehicles meet safety, regulatory, and testing requirements prior to operation.

## Responsibilities

### Vehicle Testing & Validation

• Execute vehicle testing activities in support of engineering development programs.
• Conduct on-road, off-road, customer evaluation, durability, performance, emissions, and validation testing.
• Operate test vehicles in a variety of environments, terrains, and weather conditions.
• Document test issues, observations, and vehicle performance concerns.
• Assist engineering teams with troubleshooting and root cause investigations.

### Prototype Build & Vehicle Modification

• Support prototype vehicle assembly, modification, and development activities.
• Install and remove prototype components, systems, and development hardware.
• Perform wiring, fabrication, instrumentation, and component integration work.
• Assist with vehicle configuration changes required for testing programs.
• Ensure prototype vehicles are maintained in a safe and test-ready condition.

### Mechanical & Electrical Troubleshooting

• Diagnose and repair vehicle mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electronic systems.
• Perform engine, transmission, clutch, cooling system, HVAC, ATS, exhaust, and driveline repairs.
• Troubleshoot low-voltage electrical systems, wiring harnesses, connectors, and sensors.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, engineering drawings, and technical documentation.
• Utilize diagnostic software and service tools to identify system concerns.

### Data Acquisition & Instrumentation

• Install, maintain, and troubleshoot vehicle instrumentation systems.
• Support powertrain, chassis, thermal, emissions, and durability testing activities.
• Install sensors, thermocouples, pressure transducers, accelerometers, and other measurement devices.
• Verify data quality and functionality of instrumentation equipment.
• Support engineers in collecting accurate and reliable test data.

### DOT Compliance & Commercial Vehicle Operation

• Maintain a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with Passenger (P) and Tanker (N) endorsements, or successfully complete company-sponsored CDL training.
• Comply with all DOT regulations, company driving policies, and applicable federal and state requirements.
• Successfully obtain and maintain DOT/PIV physical certification.
• Conduct vehicle and trailer inspections to ensure regulatory compliance.
• Safely operate commercial vehicles during testing, evaluation, and transportation activities.
• Participate in required DOT random drug and alcohol screening programs.

## Required Qualifications

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent technical experience.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and automotive repair knowledge.
• Experience working with vehicle systems and diagnostic tools.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a CDL Class A license with Passenger (P) and Tanker (N) endorsements.
• Ability to perform physically demanding mechanical work.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical schematics.
• Fundamental knowledge of vehicle data acquisition systems and instrumentation.
• Fundamental understanding of low-voltage electrical systems, wiring harnesses, and connectors.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications and computer-based diagnostic tools.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Effective organizational, documentation, and follow-up skills.

## Preferred Qualifications

• Current CDL Class A with Passenger (P) and Tanker (N) endorsements.
• Experience testing medium- or heavy-duty commercial vehicles.
• Experience supporting prototype vehicle builds.
• Experience with vehicle instrumentation and data acquisition systems.
• Knowledge of emissions, powertrain, durability, or performance testing.
• Fabrication, welding, and custom vehicle modification experience.
• Experience with axle, driveline, suspension, and braking systems.

## Working Conditions

• Perform strenuous mechanical work on medium- and heavy-duty vehicles.
• Work in test facilities, garages, proving grounds, customer locations, and outdoor environments.
• Exposure to loud noise, moving machinery, diesel exhaust, and automotive fluids.
• Work in temperatures ranging from approximately -40°C to +50°C.
• Frequent standing, bending, climbing, kneeling, lifting, and working underneath vehicles.
• Company-provided cold-weather gear available for winter testing activities.

## Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong vehicle diagnostics and troubleshooting skills.
• Understanding of commercial vehicle systems and components.
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing test schedules and priorities.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data quality.
• Ability to safely operate commercial vehicles in diverse driving conditions.
• Effective teamwork and collaboration with engineering and technical staff.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Where We Work

Detroit, MI US. Relocation assistance is not available for this position.

Schedule Type:

Onsite

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