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:
This position supports research and development across the Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) product line, with a primary focus on vehicle thermal management. You will prepare and instrument vehicles, conduct chassis dynamometer and field testing, and deliver clear data and reports that help system engineers evaluate performance. The role also supports prototype fabrication, data acquisition troubleshooting, competitive benchmarking, and development activities in field environments. This hands-on opportunity contributes directly to optimizing vehicle architecture and confirming that final products meet program specifications and customer expectations.
Key Responsibilities:
• Conduct thermal research and development testing across the ORV product lineup, with most testing performed on a chassis dynamometer.
• Prepare and instrument vehicles for testing using equipment such as thermocouples, anemometers, data acquisition systems, and diagnostic tools.
• Execute chassis dynamometer and field thermal tests, analyze results, and provide accurate data and reports to system engineers.
• Verify that overall vehicle performance meets program specifications and customer expectations.
• Set up, operate, and troubleshoot data acquisition equipment and related test systems.
• Fabricate prototype components and test fixtures, including welding when applicable.
• Organize and lead product development and validation activities in field environments.
• Conduct competitive benchmarking to support product and system evaluation.
• Maintain complete test records, document methods and findings, and protect confidential information.
• Maintain a clean and safe work area, follow OSHA requirements, communicate professionally, and drive assigned work to timely completion.
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.
• Problem Solving: You identify issues, assess root causes, and implement practical solutions that balance speed, quality, and risk.
• Planning & Organization: You manage time, resources, and priorities effectively to meet deadlines and deliver consistent results.
Qualifications:
• High school diploma required.
• Minimum of 3 years of mechanic or technician experience preferred.
• Two-year degree in a technical field preferred.
• Basic computer skills required.
• Strong mechanical aptitude required; powersports experience preferred.
• Experience with data acquisition systems and diagnostic tools preferred.
• Fabrication and welding experience preferred.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Ability to operate ORVs in extreme conditions, drive trucks with trailers under 26,000 pounds GCWR, and operate forklifts.
• Ability to work overtime as needed and independently initiate and complete work.
• Ability to travel periodically for product development and validation activities.
• This position is not eligible for sponsorship.
The starting pay range for Minnesota is $27.40 to $35.00 per hour, plus eligibility for overtime. Individual pay 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.…