Staff Specialist Engineer (Doors)
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Overview
Job Description
At Polaris Inc., we have fun doing what we love by driving change and innovation. We empower employees to take on challenging assignments and roles with an elevated level of responsibility in our agile working environment. Our people make us who we are, and we create incredible products and experiences that empower us to THINK OUTSIDE.
Position Overview:
In this role, you will lead the design, development, and validation of Polaris' Side‑by‑Side door systems from concept through production. You will collaborate with engineering partners, program architects, product management, and suppliers to define requirements and deliver robust, production‑ready solutions. You will also work closely with manufacturing and quality teams to ensure that your designs transition successfully into production. You will succeed by applying strong technical expertise, structured decision‑making, and ownership across the full product lifecycle. This is an opportunity to shape complex vehicle systems and influence key product outcomes across multiple programs.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the design, development, and validation of Side‑by‑Side door components and assemblies from concept through production
- Establish and maintain door-related best practices, requirements, specifications, standards, DFMEA, and DVP&R
- Manage full door subsystem development plans, ensuring alignment to specifications, sourcing strategies, schedules, and cost targets
- Determine optimal manufacturing methods for components to support performance, quality, and cost goals
- Partner with suppliers to review designs, drive improvements, and support the development of new and existing products
- Create and release engineering drawings, models, and documentation within the Polaris Release System
- Prepare sketches, layouts, presentations, and other materials to support engineering problem‑solving and communication
- Lead and participate in design reviews to ensure cross‑functional alignment and technical rigor
- Analyze field issues, identify root causes, define corrective actions, and implement countermeasures
- Support validation planning and execution for all door subsystem variants
- Collaborate with engineering, quality, and manufacturing teams to mature virtual development tools and strengthen production processes
- Identify and advocate for innovation in technologies, processes, and supplier partnerships
- Perform other duties as assigned
Desired Competencies:
- Technical / Functional Expertise: You apply the required technical or professional knowledge to perform your role effectively and stay current within your area of expertise.
- Critical Thinking: You analyze information objectively, evaluate options, and apply sound judgment to solve problems and make informed decisions.
- Collaboration: You work effectively with others across functions and levels, contributing to shared goals while respecting different perspectives.
Qualifications:
- B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
- Minimum 8 years of relevant experience in automotive closure engineering or mechanical design with a focus on door systems
- Proficiency with 3‑D CAD modeling and Finite Element Analysis tools
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes including stamping, injection molding, die casting, glassmaking, and seal extrusion
- Demonstrated experience leading complex designs from concept to production
- Proficient in GD&T, FMEA, tolerance stack‑ups, and fit and finish standards
- Experience with PTC Windchill and CREO preferred
- Ability to collaborate, mentor, communicate effectively, and manage multiple projects
- Ability to work with and travel to domestic and international technology partners
- The preferred work location is Polaris' Product Development Center in Wyoming, MN, with up to 25% travel required. A secondary option is Polaris' Novi, MI facility; however, this location requires up to 50% travel.
- This position is not eligible for sponsorship
#LI-CS99
The starting pay range for Minnesota is $109,000 to $144,000 per year. Individual salaries and positioning within the range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge, skills, and geography. While individual pay could fall anywhere in the range based on these factors, it is not common to start at the high end or top of the range.
To qualify for this position, former employees must be eligible for rehire, and current employees must be in good standing.
We are an ambitious, resourceful, and driven workforce, which empowers us to THINK OUTSIDE. Apply today!
At Polaris we put our employees first, by offering a holistic approach to their health and financial wellbeing. Polaris is proud to offer competitive compensation, including a market-leading profit-sharing plan that is fundamental to our pay-for-performance culture. At Polaris, employees are owners of the company through company contributions to our Employee Stock Ownership Plan and discounted employee stock purchases plan. Employees receive a generous matching contribution to 401(k), financial wellness education and consultation to plan for their financial future. In addition to competitive pay, Polaris provides a comprehensive suite of benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, wellness programs, paid time off, gym & personal training reimbursement, life insurance and disability offerings. Through the Polaris Foundation and our Polaris Gives paid volunteer time off, we support employees who actively volunteer their time, efforts, and passions to improve the health and wellbeing of the communities in which they live, play and work. Employees at Polaris drive our success and are rewarded for their commitment.
About Polaris
As the global leader in powersports, Polaris Inc. (NYSE: PII) pioneers product breakthroughs and enriching experiences and services that have invited people to discover the joy of being outdoors since our founding in 1954. Polaris' high-quality product line-up includes the Polaris RANGER, RZR and Polaris GENERAL side-by-side off-road vehicles; Sportsman all-terrain off-road vehicles; military and commercial off-road vehicles; snowmobiles; Slingshot moto-roadsters; Aixam quadricycles; Goupil electric vehicles; and pontoon and deck boats, including industry-leading Bennington pontoons. Polaris enhances the riding experience with a robust portfolio of parts, garments, and accessories. Proudly headquartered in Minnesota, Polaris serves more than 100 countries across the globe. www.polaris.com
EEO Statement
Polaris Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and will make all employment-related decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, familial status, status with regard to public assistance, membership or activity in a local commission, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. Applicants with a disability that are in need of an accommodation to complete the application process, or otherwise need assistance or an accommodation in the recruiting process, should contact Human Resources at 800-765-2747 or Talent.Acquisition@Polaris.com. To read more about employment discrimination protection under U.S. federal law, see: Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal (eeoc.gov).
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