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.
Interns in this role may have the opportunity to transition into a full-time position subject to manager evaluations and business availability.
This internship supports the Procurement team in improving how raw materials are sourced, purchased, and managed across the supply chain. You'll analyze purchasing and supplier data to identify opportunities to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and strengthen supplier performance. You'll work closely with procurement, supply chain, and cross-functional teams on projects focused on process optimization, continuous improvement, and strategic sourcing. This internship provided hands-on exposure to strategic procurement, supply chain operations, and continuous improvement methodologies (Lean/Six Sigma principles) in a fast-paced manufacturing or industrial environment.
Interns will gain hands-on experience with data analysis, supplier performance management, lean manufacturing principles, and end-to-end supply chain operations. This role offers exposure to real-world procurement strategies and continuous improvement initiatives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment while contributing to projects that drive measurable business impact.
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
- Assist in identifying, analyzing, and implementing process enhancements to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve supplier performance within the procurement function.
- Key Responsibilities & Activities:
- Conduct data analysis on raw material spend, lead times, and supplier metrics to identify improvement opportunities
- Support lean and process improvement initiatives (e.g., Kaizen events, value stream mapping, or 5S) within purchasing workflows
- Assist in developing and refining standard operating procedures (SOPs) for purchase order management and inventory coordination
- Participate in cross-functional projects aimed at optimizing the end-to-end raw material supply chain
- Perform market research and benchmarking to support better sourcing decisions
- Contribute to cost-saving initiatives and risk mitigation strategies for critical raw materials.
- 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)
- Degree Majors Preferred: Supply Chain or related field
- Experience using Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, data analysis, charts, etc.)
- Familiarity with ERP systems and data visualization tools
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret data and identify process improvement opportunities
- Interest in procurement, sourcing, supply chain operations, and continuous improvement
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities
- Effective communication and collaboration skills; comfortable working with cross-functional teams and suppliers
- Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and solutions-focused mindset
- Ability to analyze processes, identify inefficiencies, and recommend practical improvements
Exceptional Candidates Might Have
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, 5S, or Value Stream Mapping concepts preferred
- Familiarity with SAP and/or Power BI is a plus
#LI-RR
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
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.
