Entry Level Transportation Design Jobs in Michigan

'Own Your Career' supports Tenneco's People Model, ensuring that we both "Select the Best" and "Build & Develop" internal talent.

It is our commitment to develop and promote great talent within the Tenneco team.

Job Description - Application Engineer, Associate

ABOUT TENNECO

At Tenneco, we don't follow industry standards; we set them, and we don't settle for being best-in-class because we hustle to be better than best-in-class. Whether it's our Core Values-radical candor, simplify, organizational velocity, tenacious execution and win-or our Get Stuff Done (GSD) mindset, we're determined to become the most trusted partner and best manufacturer and distributor to the transportation industry.

How do we make it happen? Through the Tenneco Way. Fueled by our Core Values, a winning mindset and a relentless commitment to excellence, the Tenneco Way is how we win. It's what keeps Team Tenneco bold, driven, and unapologetically focused on pushing past limits and redefining success.

Here, you'll work alongside a team of relentless problem-solvers who are committed to making a tangible impact. If you're ready to break boundaries, deliver results, and enjoy the ride along the way, you'll thrive here.

Want to learn more about who we are? Check out our website to discover the Tenneco Way.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Associate Application Engineer is an entry-level engineering role responsible for supporting the design, development, validation, and launch of products and systems. Working under guidance of Engineering Managers, this role focuses on building foundational technical knowledge, applying engineering principles to defined tasks, and contributing to team deliverables.

The Associate Engineer supports customer programs and internal engineering activities while developing the skills and competencies required for independent engineering work.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Engineering Support & Development

• Assist in the design, development, and release of components and systems under supervision.
• Support creation and updates of engineering documentation, including drawings, specifications, and BOMs.
• Apply basic engineering principles to complete assigned tasks and analyses.
• Follow established engineering standards, processes, and design guidelines.

Customer & Program Support

• Support preparation of technical data and presentations for customer interactions.
• Participate in customer and internal technical meetings; document actions and follow-ups.
• Assist in gathering and interpreting customer requirements and specifications.

Validation & Testing

• Support execution of validation and testing activities (lab, rig, or field testing).
• Collect, organize, and summarize data for review by senior engineers.
• Assist in identifying issues and documenting test results.

Program Execution & Documentation

• Support tracking of assigned tasks and program deliverables.
• Assist in maintaining key engineering documentation (e.g., DVP&R, DFMEA inputs, change records).
• Participate in prototype builds and product launch activities.

Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement

• Apply basic problem-solving techniques (root cause analysis, 8D support) under guidance.
• Assist in investigating issues related to testing, manufacturing, or field performance.
• Contribute to lessons learned and continuous improvement activities.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work as a contributing member of cross-functional teams (engineering, manufacturing, quality, etc.).
• Support manufacturing and assembly activities during development and launch phases.
• Communicate progress, issues, and results clearly to team members.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical or related field)
• Internship or co-op experience in engineering or manufacturing environment preferred
• Willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-paced engineering environment
• Ability to work in office, laboratory, and manufacturing settings
• Flexibility for occasional travel as required
• Basic understanding of engineering fundamentals (e.g., mechanics, dynamics, hydraulics
• Familiarity with engineering drawings, CAD models, and product development
• Awareness of engineering tools such as calculations, testing methods, and data analysis

We don't want average. We want exceptional. We want someone who's hungry to build, unafraid to challenge, and bold enough to lead with empathy, speed, and precision. Sound like you? Let us know.

You are encouraged to 'Own Your Career' to maximize your development and reach your full potential!