Staff Specialist Engineer (Doors)

Polaris Inc. • Novi, MI

14d • $109,000 - $144,000

About The Position

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.

Requirements

• 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
• 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

Nice To Haves

• Experience with PTC Windchill and CREO preferred

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

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level