Project Lead Engineer - Global Powertrain Validation
About the role
The PACCAR Global Powertrain Validation department is seeking a highly motivated Project Lead Engineer for internal combustion engine programs. This role leads and coordinates global validation activities throughout the product development lifecycle, providing technical leadership and project oversight for hardware and software validation efforts to ensure the powertrain meets performance, durability, reliability, emissions, and customer requirements. The Project Lead Engineer serves as the focal point between engineering, validation teams, suppliers, program management, and leadership, driving execution of Design Verification Plans (DVPs), software releases, failure analysis, and issue resolution.
Company Information
PACCAR is a Fortune 500 company established in 1905 and a global leader in commercial vehicles, finance, and customer service. Its brands include Kenworth, Peterbilt, and DAF trucks. PACCAR designs and manufactures advanced diesel engines and provides customized financial services, information technology, and truck parts. The company offers opportunities to design transportation technology, support dynamic international operations, and build high‑quality products and services.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate and guide activities following agreed procedures to ensure timely availability of results aligned with specifications.
- Ensure department FRACAS entries are completed and required resolution activities are performed.
- Align decision‑making within the project core team so deliverables match the project plan.
- Define, track, and analyze KPIs (test coverage, pass/fail rates, inflow vs outflow).
- Initiate validation plan development and risk analysis for priority items.
- Identify discrepancies between direction from the validation manager and project management.
- Facilitate knowledge transfer between specialists and team members to utilize best practices.
- Set Engineering Team meeting agenda for topics of awareness or escalation.
- Travel up to 20 % of the time (domestic and international) as needed.
Qualifications
- 7+ years of product development experience within the automotive sector or related fields.
- Understanding of powertrain systems and product development processes.
- Outstanding organizational, planning, and tracking skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
Benefits
- Competitive salary and 401(k) with up to a 5 % company match.
- Fully funded pension plan providing monthly benefits after retirement.
- Comprehensive paid time off – minimum of 10 vacation days, 12 paid holidays, and sick leave.
- Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
- Medical, dental, and vision plans for employee and family.
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA).
- Paid short‑ and long‑term disability programs.
- Life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance.
- Employee Assistance Program services, including wellness plans, estate planning, and financial counseling.
- Opportunities for growth and development within a global Fortune 500 company.
- Collaboration with experienced, goal‑oriented colleagues recognized as experts in their field.
Pay
The salary range for the Project Lead Engineer – Global Powertrain Validation is $104,100 – $162,900 annually.