Full Job Description
Position Overview:
The Sr. Powertrain Calibration Lead Engineer owns calibration strategy and delivery for next-generation Polaris powertrains from requirements definition through production release. In this role, you will lead calibration engineers and align module leads, controls, design, development, validation, project management, and executive stakeholders throughout the Product Development Process. The position balances performance, drivability, emissions, durability, diagnostics, and program risk while maintaining calibration data and release controls. This role offers hands-on technical leadership across dyno, vehicle, field, certification, and production environments.
Key Responsibilities:
• Define and document calibration requirements for performance, drivability, emissions, durability, and diagnostics at program start, aligned with program and vehicle objectives.
• Develop and own the calibration plan, work breakdown, timing, resource needs, test procedures, and equipment required to meet program milestones.
• Lead calibration engineers across all work packages by assigning work, setting technical direction, removing barriers, and developing team capability.
• Lead calibration maturity reviews at each Product Development Process gate, using standardized metrics, tools, and processes to communicate progress, decisions, and risk across the engineering organization.
• Own calibration technical decisions that balance performance, emissions, durability, and program risk, and lead rapid resolution of issues and Incident Reports through root cause failure analysis and practical corrective actions.
• Partner with module leads and design, development, validation, project management, and executive stakeholders to ensure hardware and calibration systems meet program objectives.
• Represent calibration in engine control module software requirement and change reviews, collaborating with controls systems engineers to recommend and validate algorithm changes.
• Identify calibration risks early, incorporate them into the DFMEA and DVP&R, and direct resources across multiple Powertrain and product group engineering sites.
• Lead pre-production engine and vehicle calibration, support EPA and CARB emissions certification and durability testing, and deliver production calibration files that meet performance, drivability, emissions, and regulatory requirements.
• Own calibration data management and release control, support end-of-line testing at engine and vehicle assembly plants, improve calibration processes and automation, and use field and customer data to assess post-production performance.
Desired Competencies:
• Leadership: You inspire, guide, and empower others to achieve their best by setting clear direction, fostering trust, and creating an environment where people feel supported, motivated, and accountable for delivering results.
• Collaboration: You work effectively with others across functions and levels, contributing to shared goals while respecting different perspectives.
• Critical Thinking: You analyze information objectively, evaluate options, and apply sound judgment to solve problems and make informed decisions.
Qualifications:
• Bachelor's or master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related engineering field.
• Minimum of five years of engineering experience.
• Minimum of two years leading calibration work, including taking a calibration through production release.
• Strong knowledge of engine fundamentals related to controls, performance, and emissions, with experience in base engine calibration, including torque structure, airflow, spark, fueling, transient response and drivability, cold start, and component protection.
• Proficiency with ETAS INCA and/or Vector CANape, vehicle CAN, and A2L/MDF calibration data handling.
• Proficiency with data analysis tools such as Concerto and MATLAB, along with Microsoft Office.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities and work effectively with domestic and international technology partners.
• Preferred experience with engine emissions control systems and EPA/CARB certification, OBD/diagnostics calibration, Simulink, ASCET, Python or other scripting for data automation, and small, powersports, or automotive engines.
• Preferred hands-on experience operating off-road vehicle products.
• Ability to work in fast-paced dyno, test, and field environments, including hot, cold, and high-altitude field testing, and travel up to 25%.
• This position is not eligible for sponsorship.
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The starting pay range for Minnesota is $96,000 to $127,000 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.
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.
