Surface Development Clay Intern

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.

The Clay Studio Internship at Daimler Trucks North America offers students in Automotive or Industrial Design a hands-on opportunity to contribute to real-world vehicle design projects. Interns support both digital and physical surface development, utilizing tools like Alias or Siemens NX and participating in clay modeling processes. With a strong emphasis on shape, proportion, and surface quality, the role fosters collaboration across design and engineering teams. Interns are expected to demonstrate creativity, technical skill, and a commitment to DTNA’s core values of passion, respect, integrity, and discipline.
Overview:
As a Clay Studio Intern at Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA), you will gain hands-on experience in a dynamic and creative design environment. This internship offers a unique opportunity to work alongside experienced modelers and designers, contributing to real-world projects that shape the future of commercial vehicle design. Interns are expected to embody DTNA’s core values of Passion, Respect, Integrity, and Discipline throughout their tenure.

Interns in this role may have the opportunity to transition into a full-time position subject to manager evaluations and business availability.

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

• Collaborate with the Clay Studio team on the development of full-size and scale models for concept and production vehicles.
• Support the surface development process through both digital and physical modeling techniques.
• Utilize basic digital modeling tools such as Alias Wavefront or Siemens NX to assist in the creation and refinement of design surfaces.
• Participate in clay modeling tasks, including armature preparation, clay application, and surface refinement.
• Apply a strong foundation in design principles, with a focus on shape, proportion, and surface quality.
• Engage in cross-functional collaboration with design, engineering, and fabrication teams.
• Lead and support efforts to foster an inclusive and welcoming workplace culture where everyone belongs

Knowledge You Should Bring

• Currently pursuing a degree in Automotive Design, Industrial Design, or a related field.
• Submitted portfolio required
• Basic proficiency in digital modeling software (Alias, Siemens NX, or equivalent).
• Familiarity with clay modeling techniques and tools.
• Strong visual and spatial awareness with an eye for detail.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• A proactive attitude and willingness to learn in a fast-paced studio environment.
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Solid organizational skills
• Creative mindset

#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 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

• This position is not open to 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.