Sr. Gear Design Engineer

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.
This position is not eligible for Visa sponsorship Position Overview

As a Senior Transmission Design Engineer, you will lead the design and development of transmission components, subsystems, and full systems from concept through production. You will translate functional requirements into robust designs by driving analysis, modeling, validation, and cross‑functional collaboration. In this role, you will guide design reviews, influence manufacturing methods, and resolve issues across the development cycle to ensure quality, timing, and cost targets are met.

Your work directly shapes the performance and durability of Polaris engine and driveline systems, providing a high‑impact opportunity to own complex transmission technologies across multiple programs.

• Lead design activities for engine and transmission components, subsystems, and systems—including schedule creation, concept development, and detailed 3D modeling.
• Perform or oversee required engineering analyses such as DFMEA and FEA to ensure design suitability.
• Lead and participate in design reviews with cross‑functional stakeholders and coordinate with interfacing system owners.
• Select manufacturing methods and lead supplier DFM discussions to ensure manufacturability and quality.
• Support validation and development activities, including DVP&R execution and issue resolution for supplier, manufacturing, test, and field problems.
• Coordinate internal and external resources to support design progress and run‑at‑rate activities at supplier sites.
• Mentor and guide designers and engineers, leveraging subject matter expertise in areas such as rotating components, lubrication, shift mechanisms, or housings.
• Lead ownership of complex transmission components, subsystems, systems, and programs across multiple concurrent projects.
• Support drivetrain and powertrain system integration into chassis environments and contribute to organizational knowledge‑management activities.

• 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.
• Collaboration:
  
  You work effectively with others across functions and levels, contributing to shared goals while respecting different perspectives.

• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, or an equivalent field.
• Minimum 5 years of transmission or related design engineering experience; or 3+ years with an M.S. degree.
• 8+ years of significant component manufacturing and application experience.
• Proficiency with 3D CAD modeling software, preferably PTC Creo.
• Proficient with gear and drive system modelling using MASTA, ROMAX, KISSsoft, or similar software.
• Experience in one or more areas of transmission design, including gears, shafts, bearings, shift mechanisms, CVTs, clutches, housings, breathers, lubrication, splines, or bolted joints.
• Knowledge of systems engineering, requirements management, GD&T, FMEA, DVP&R, and tolerance analysis.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and influencing skills with the ability to lead and mentor others.
• Ability to work effectively across multiple programs with a focus on innovation, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Ability to work in environments that require occasional supplier visits and support for run‑at‑rate activities.