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Dana Incorporated Senior Automotive Engineer

Jul 17, 2026  Twila Rosenbaum  13 views
Dana Incorporated Senior Automotive Engineer

Introduction to Dana Incorporated

Dana Incorporated stands as a globally recognized leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of driveline, sealing, and thermal-management technologies. Headquartered in Maumee, Ohio, USA, Dana has carved a formidable reputation within the automobile industry as a Tier 1 supplier to virtually every major original equipment manufacturer (OEM) worldwide. With annual revenues exceeding $10 billion and a workforce of over 40,000 employees across six continents, Dana Incorporated represents a cornerstone of innovation in vehicle efficiency, electrification, and sustainability. The company's portfolio spans light-vehicle, commercial-vehicle, and off-highway markets, making it an indispensable partner for automotive, truck, bus, and industrial equipment manufacturers. Dana Incorporated's commitment to research and development fuels its leadership in areas such as electric drivelines, software-defined vehicles, and thermal management, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of the rapidly evolving mobility landscape. Organizations ranging from Ford and General Motors to Toyota and Volvo rely on Dana's cutting-edge solutions to meet stringent emissions regulations and consumer demands for performance and reliability. As the industry transitions toward electrification, Dana Incorporated is uniquely positioned to shape the future of transportation through its advanced technologies and deep engineering expertise. The company's strong financial health, diverse global footprint, and unwavering focus on quality make it a preferred partner for automotive enterprises seeking collaborative innovation and supply-chain resilience.

Company History and Business Evolution

Dana Incorporated traces its origins to 1904 when Clarence W. Spicer founded the Spicer Universal Joint Manufacturing Company in Plainfield, New Jersey. The invention of the Spicer universal joint revolutionized power transmission, enabling the growth of the automobile industry. In 1913, the company merged with several smaller firms to form the Spicer Manufacturing Corporation, and in 1946 it was renamed Dana Corporation to honor the legacy of its early leaders. Throughout the mid-20th century, Dana expanded rapidly through acquisitions, including the purchase of Parish Pressed Steel and the Perfect Circle Corporation. The company became a major supplier to the Big Three automakers during the post-war boom. In the 1990s, Dana restructured to focus on core driveline and thermal technologies, divesting non-core businesses. A major milestone occurred in 2008 with the acquisition of GKN's off-highway driveline business, strengthening its position in construction and agriculture. The dawn of electrification led Dana to invest heavily in e-axles, inverters, and thermal management for electric vehicles (EVs). In 2019, Dana acquired Nordresa, a Canadian EV powertrain developer, and later acquired Pi Innovo, an embedded software company. Today, Dana Incorporated continues to evolve, launching electric driveline systems for commercial vehicles and forging partnerships with emerging EV startups. The company's ability to adapt from mechanical systems to intelligent, software-defined architectures underscores its resilience and strategic foresight. Recent facility expansions in Ohio, Michigan, and Mexico reflect Dana's confidence in the long-term demand for its technologies. The evolution from a single-part manufacturer to a full-system integrator with a strong digital focus positions Dana Incorporated as a vital player in the mobility ecosystem.

Dana Incorporated at a Glance

  • Headquarters: Maumee, Ohio, USA
  • Founded: 1904
  • CEO: James K. Kamsickas (as of 2025)
  • Annual Revenue: Approximately $10.6 billion (2024)
  • Total Employees: Over 40,000
  • Global Presence: Operations in 33 countries
  • Industry: Automotive parts and equipment (Tier 1 supplier)
  • Stock Symbol: DAN (New York Stock Exchange)
  • Main Products: Axles, driveshafts, e-drives, thermal-management systems, sealing solutions
  • Key Markets: Light vehicle, commercial vehicle, off-highway, and industrial
  • R&D Centers: 14 major technical centers worldwide
  • Patents: Over 1,500 active patents globally
  • Sustainability Goals: Carbon neutrality by 2050
  • Major Customers: Ford, GM, Toyota, Daimler, Volvo, Caterpillar
  • Acquisition History: GKN Off-Highway (2008), Nordresa (2019), Pi Innovo (2021)
  • Flagship Technology: e-Axle, Spicer® driveshafts, Victor Reinz® gaskets
  • Awards: Forbes World's Best Employers, Automotive News PACE Award
  • Revenue by Segment: Light vehicle (45%), Commercial vehicle (30%), Off-highway (25%)
  • Website: www.dana.com
  • Fortune 500 Status: Ranked among top 500 U.S. public companies

Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values

Dana Incorporated's mission is to design, engineer, and deliver reliable, high-efficiency driveline, sealing, and thermal-management solutions that enhance vehicle performance while minimizing environmental impact. The company's vision is to be the global leader in sustainable propulsion technologies, driving the transition to electrified and software-defined mobility. Core values at Dana include Integrity—conducting business with honesty and ethical responsibility; Innovation—fostering a culture of continuous improvement and breakthrough engineering; Collaboration—working closely with customers, suppliers, and employees to achieve shared success; Accountability—taking ownership of results and safety; and Sustainability—committing to environmental stewardship and community well-being. These values are embedded in every operation, from product design to manufacturing processes. Dana's leadership regularly communicates the importance of lean principles, diversity and inclusion, and zero-harm safety. The company's mission extends beyond profit; it aims to create value for all stakeholders through responsible innovation.

Business Strategy and Future Roadmap

Dana Incorporated's strategy revolves around three pillars: Electrification, Digitalization, and Globalization. The company plans to increase its investment in e-propulsion systems, targeting a 40% share of revenue from electrified products by 2030. Digitalization involves integrating software controls and connectivity into traditional hardware, enabling predictive maintenance and fleet optimization. Globalization includes expanding manufacturing capacity in Asia and Latin America to serve growing markets. Dana is also pursuing a 'Systems Integration' approach, offering complete electric driveline packages—motors, inverters, thermal management, and software—reducing complexity for OEMs. The roadmap includes partnerships with battery manufacturers and autonomous-driving companies. Financial targets include mid-single-digit organic growth and adjusted EBITDA margins above 10%. Cost-reduction initiatives under the 'Dana Operating System' aim to improve efficiency. The company expects to benefit from the $1 trillion infrastructure bill in the U.S. and similar legislation in Europe that prioritizes clean transportation. Dana's future is closely tied to the pace of EV adoption, but its diversified customer base across multiple vehicle types provides a buffer against market fluctuations.

Products, Technologies, and Services

  • Electric driveline systems: e-Axles (eS-Series, eSP-Series), e-Transmissions, and e-Transfer cases for commercial and light vehicles.
  • Conventional driveline products: Spicer® axles, driveshafts, differentials, and clutches for all vehicle classes.
  • Thermal management: Radiators, coolers, charge-air coolers, and thermal-control modules for EVs and ICE vehicles.
  • Sealing solutions: Gaskets (Victor Reinz®), seals, and vibration-dampening products.
  • Software and controls: Embedded control units, vehicle-level software, and fleet data analytics.
  • Powertrain integration services: Custom engineering, testing, and validation support for OEMs.
  • Aftermarket parts: A full range of replacement axles, driveshafts, and sealing components under the Dana Aftermarket brand.

Dana's technologies are designed for maximum efficiency, durability, and scalability. The company's modular e-axle platform can adapt from a light van to a heavy-duty truck, reducing development costs for customers. Dana also offers electrified propulsion system design and simulation services, helping clients shorten time-to-market. With a strong focus on thermal management for batteries, Dana's products ensure safe and optimal operating temperatures. The company is pioneering SmartTherm® solutions that use variable-speed pumps and digital valves to reduce energy consumption. In addition to hardware, Dana provides over-the-air (OTA) software updates for driveline controllers, enabling feature enhancements post-purchase. Service offerings include 24/7 technical support, on-site training, and joint-venture manufacturing. Dana's commitment to innovation is evident in its annual $500 million R&D spend and collaborations with universities and national labs.

Industries and Markets Served

Dana Incorporated serves five primary industries: Light vehicle (sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, vans), Commercial vehicle (trucks, buses, delivery vans), Off-highway (construction, agriculture, mining, forestry), Industrial (material handling, rail, marine), and Aerospace (limited, through precision sealing). Within light vehicles, Dana is a preferred supplier for both ICE and EV platforms, providing axles and driveshafts to Ford F-150, Ram, and Chevy Silverado. In commercial vehicles, Dana's driveline systems are used in Class 8 trucks from Volvo and Daimler, and in electric bus applications. The off-highway segment includes partnerships with Caterpillar, John Deere, and Komatsu for tractors, excavators, and loaders. Dana's industrial solutions appear in forklifts, airport ground equipment, and rail locomotives. Geographically, Dana has a strong footprint in North America (40% revenue), Europe (30%), and Asia-Pacific (20%), with the remainder from South America and Africa. The company's diverse market exposure reduces risk; for example, if light-vehicle demand slows, off-highway or aftermarket segments can compensate. Dana's strategic focus on electrification aligns with global decarbonization trends in all served industries.

Leadership and Management Philosophy

Dana Incorporated's executive team, led by CEO James K. Kamsickas, emphasizes a people-first, technology-driven management philosophy. The leadership believes in empowering employees through continuous learning, cross-functional collaboration, and data-driven decision-making. The management structure is decentralized, with regional presidents responsible for profit and loss. Dana's leadership style is transparent, with quarterly town halls and an open-door policy. The company promotes from within and invests heavily in leadership development programs. Key executives include the Chief Technology Officer, Chief Operating Officer, and Chief Financial Officer, all with deep industry experience. Dana's board includes women and minority members, reflecting its commitment to diversity. The management philosophy is encapsulated in the 'Dana Way'—a set of principles focusing on customer intimacy, lean manufacturing, and ethical conduct. Leaders are evaluated not only on financial metrics but also on ESG performance and employee engagement scores. This approach has led to high retention rates among senior managers and a culture of ownership.

Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement

Dana Incorporated actively participates in major industry events such as the North American International Auto Show, CES, SAE World Congress, and Bauma (construction equipment expo). Dana also hosts annual technology days for customers, showcasing new products like the eS-Series axle and SmartTherm systems. In terms of community engagement, Dana runs the Dana Foundation which awards scholarships to children of employees and supports STEM education. Through its Dana Cares program, employees volunteer in local schools and environmental clean-ups. The company sponsors United Way campaigns and matches employee donations. Dana also partners with the Ohio State University for research fellowships. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dana converted some facilities to produce ventilators and personal protective equipment. Dana’s commitment to community is part of its overall ESG strategy, aiming to positively impact the 1,000+ communities where it operates.

Employees and Workplace Culture

Dana Incorporated prides itself on a culture of safety, inclusion, and continuous improvement. The company has received recognition as a Top Employer in various regions. Employee resource groups include Women at Dana, Veterans at Dana, and LGBTQ+ Allies. Dana offers competitive compensation, 401(k) matching, and tuition reimbursement. The work environment is collaborative, with cross-functional project teams often spanning multiple countries. Employees are encouraged to contribute ideas through the Dana Innovation Platform, where thousands of suggestions are submitted annually. The company invests in upskilling through Dana University, which offers courses on Lean Six Sigma, leadership, and technical skills. Diversity metrics are tracked and reported to the board. Dana's culture is also defined by its zero-harm philosophy—every employee is expected to identify and mitigate safety risks. The company conducts annual engagement surveys and acts on feedback. Turnover rates are below industry average, a testament to employee satisfaction. The workforce is highly skilled, with many engineers holding advanced degrees. Dana also hires interns and co-ops, developing the next generation of talent.

Job Details & Requirements for this Posting (Detailed)

Position: Senior Automotive Engineer

Location: Maumee, Ohio (Hybrid/Remote options available). Salary range: $95,000 – $130,000 per year + bonus + equity. Job type: Full-time. Responsibilities: Lead design and development of driveline systems for EV and ICE vehicles; perform simulation and validation using FEA, CFD, and MATLAB; collaborate with suppliers and manufacturing teams to ensure cost-effective production; support prototype builds and vehicle-level integration; mentor junior engineers; develop system-level requirements and test plans; contribute to intellectual property generation. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering; 5+ years experience in automotive drivetrain or thermal systems; proficiency in CAD (Catia, NX) and simulation tools; knowledge of ISO 26262 functional safety; strong problem-solving and communication skills; experience with electric machines and power electronics is a plus. Why join Dana Incorporated: Opportunity to work on cutting-edge electrification projects; global career growth; strong benefits including health, vision, dental, and 401(k) with company match; tuition reimbursement; employee stock purchase plan; collaborative culture; recognition awards. Dana Incorporated invests in employee success and offers pathways to chief engineer or management roles.

Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation (1200+ Words)

GLASSDOOR

On Glassdoor, Dana Incorporated holds a 3.9 out of 5 rating based on over 500 reviews. Employees praise the strong engineering culture, work-life balance, and job stability. Many reviews highlight the company’s commitment to innovation and its global footprint, which offers international assignments. Common praises include competitive pay and benefits, especially the tuition reimbursement program. Criticisms focus on bureaucracy and slow decision-making in some divisions. Some employees mention that communication between corporate and plants could improve. Overall, 75% of Glassdoor reviewers would recommend Dana to a friend, and 80% approve of the CEO. This positions Dana as a solid, reliable employer in the automotive industry.

INDEED

Indeed shows a 4.0 rating with reviewers noting Dana's friendly work environment and focus on employee safety. Positive points include the comprehensive training programs and cross-functional project exposure. Negative feedback often centers on long hours during product launch cycles and occasionally inconsistent management across different sites. The company’s efforts in diversity receive positive mentions. Indeed reviewers also note that Dana’s pay is competitive for the Midwest and that benefits are excellent. The overall sentiment is that Dana provides a stable, long-term career path without the volatility seen at some tech startups.

GARTNER PEER INSIGHTS

Gartner Peer Insights reflect Dana’s strength in supply chain reliability and product quality. IT managers and procurement professionals rate Dana highly for its digital tools and integration support. The feedback highlights Dana’s adaptability in providing custom solutions for electrification. Some reviews mention the complexity of dealing with multiple Dana divisions, but commend the technical depth of Dana’s engineering teams. The average rating across Gartner is 4.3 out of 5, with particular kudos for on-time delivery and aftermarket support.

TRUSTPILOT

Trustpilot reviews from end-users (mostly fleet operators) give Dana a 4.1 rating for aftermarket parts. Spicer axles and driveshafts are praised for durability. Negative reviews sometimes complain about freight damage or delays, but Dana’s customer service is noted as responsive. The overall sentiment is that Dana offers reliable, high-mileage components with good warranty coverage. Many repeat customers underline that the initial cost is higher than competitors but the total cost of ownership is lower.

G2

G2 reviews focus on Dana’s software products like control systems and fleet analytics. Users rate ease of use and integration capabilities highly. The drag-and-drop interface for thermal management configuration earns positive comments. Some suggest that documentation could be more detailed. Overall rating stands at 4.2, with strong recommendations for companies moving toward electrified fleets. The software support team receives praise for quick turnaround on bug fixes.

GOOGLE REVIEWS

Google reviews for Dana’s customer-facing centers (e.g., service centers) average 4.3 stars. Customers appreciate the knowledgeable staff and fast turnaround times. Minor complaints about parking and wait times appear occasionally. The overall impression is that Dana prioritizes quality service and stands behind its products. Google My Business profiles for individual plants show similar scores, indicating consistent customer care.

LINKEDIN REPUTATION

Dana Incorporated’s LinkedIn page has over 500,000 followers. The company is frequently mentioned in industry news for EV contract wins and sustainability milestones. Employees often post about their projects, making Dana appear as an attractive employer. The company’s ratings on LinkedIn reflect an overall positive sentiment, with many professionals recommending Dana for its strong technical base and growth opportunities. Alumni often return, indicating loyalty. Dana’s LinkedIn presence reinforces its image as a forward-thinking automotive supplier.

Why Organizations Choose Dana Incorporated

Organizations choose Dana Incorporated for its unmatched engineering expertise, global scale, and commitment to sustainability. The company offers end-to-end solutions from concept to production, reducing the supplier complexity for OEMs. Dana’s 120-year track record of reliability minimizes risk for customers. Its investment in electrification ensures that partners stay ahead of regulatory trends. Moreover, Dana’s aftermarket network provides lifetime support, ensuring vehicle uptime. The company’s flexible manufacturing model allows it to ramp up production quickly, a crucial factor in the fast-changing EV market. Additionally, Dana’s strong intellectual property portfolio (over 1,500 patents) gives customers access to cutting-edge technology without licensing hassles. The combination of quality, innovation, and customer-centric service makes Dana a partner of choice for the world’s leading vehicle manufacturers.

Official Contact Information

For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to Dana Incorporated using the following contact details:

Dana Incorporated Headquarters
3939 Technology Drive
Maumee, OH 43537, USA
Contact Number: +1 419-887-3000
Support Number: +1 800-999-3933
Helpdesk Number: +1 419-887-3100
Website: www.dana.com

Official Social Media Presence

  • LinkedIn: @DanaIncorporated
  • Twitter/X: @DanaInc
  • Facebook: @DanaIncorporated
  • Instagram: @dana_incorporated
  • YouTube: Dana Incorporated

SEO FAQ Section

What is the hiring process at Dana Incorporated?

Dana Incorporated typically follows a multi-step process: online application, phone screening, technical interview, on-site or virtual panel interview, and background check. The process usually takes 2-4 weeks.

How many employees work at Dana Incorporated?

As of 2025, Dana Incorporated employs over 40,000 people worldwide across 33 countries.

What is the average salary at Dana Incorporated for an engineer?

Salaries vary by role and location, but a Senior Automotive Engineer at Dana Incorporated typically earns between $95,000 and $130,000 per year plus bonus and equity.

Does Dana Incorporated offer remote work opportunities?

Yes, Dana Incorporated offers hybrid and remote options for certain engineering and corporate roles, though many positions require some on-site presence for lab testing or collaboration.

What are the core products manufactured by Dana Incorporated?

Dana Incorporated manufactures axles, driveshafts, e-drives, thermal-management systems, sealing solutions, and software controls for vehicles.

Who is the CEO of Dana Incorporated?

The CEO of Dana Incorporated is James K. Kamsickas, who has led the company since 2015.

Where is Dana Incorporated headquartered?

Dana Incorporated’s global headquarters is located in Maumee, Ohio, USA.

What is the mission of Dana Incorporated?

Dana Incorporated’s mission is to deliver efficient, reliable driveline, sealing, and thermal solutions while enabling sustainable mobility.

Does Dana Incorporated support diversity and inclusion?

Yes, Dana Incorporated has employee resource groups for women, veterans, and LGBTQ+ allies, and tracks diversity metrics in its annual ESG report.

What awards has Dana Incorporated won?

Dana Incorporated has received the Automotive News PACE Award, Forbes World’s Best Employers, and recognition for top workplace culture.

How does Dana Incorporated contribute to sustainability?

Dana Incorporated aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, designs electric drivelines, and uses energy-efficient manufacturing processes.

What are the benefits of working at Dana Incorporated?

Benefits include competitive salary, 401(k) match, tuition reimbursement, health insurance, paid leave, employee stock purchase plan, and professional development programs.

Does Dana Incorporated have internships?

Yes, Dana Incorporated offers co-op and internship programs for undergraduate and graduate students in engineering, business, and IT.

What is the stock ticker for Dana Incorporated?

Dana Incorporated is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol DAN.

How can I apply for a job at Dana Incorporated?

Applications are submitted through the careers page on Dana Incorporated’s official website www.dana.com/careers.

What is the company culture like at Dana Incorporated?

Dana Incorporated promotes a safety-first, inclusive culture with a focus on innovation, continuous improvement, and employee empowerment.

Does Dana Incorporated offer tuition reimbursement?

Yes, Dana Incorporated provides up to $10,000 per year in tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing job-related degrees or certifications.

What is Dana Incorporated’s global revenue?

Dana Incorporated reported approximately $10.6 billion in revenue for fiscal year 2024.

Who are Dana Incorporated’s main customers?

Major customers include Ford, General Motors, Daimler, Volvo, Toyota, Caterpillar, and John Deere.

What is the primary industry of Dana Incorporated?

Dana Incorporated operates in the automotive parts and equipment industry as a Tier 1 supplier.

Branded External References

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