Operations Leadership Development Program

Polaris Inc; Huntsville (AL); On-site; USD 75,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mentorship

Leadership development

Networking

Early Talent Summit Week

Community engagement

Rotation showcases

Job summary

Polaris Inc. invites high-potential graduates to join the Operations Leadership Development Program (OLDP), a 3-year accelerated rotational path across supply chain, manufacturing, quality, and engineering.

You will lead impactful projects, gain hands-on experience, and build leadership capabilities under mentorship and structured learning opportunities. Successful candidates will rotate through core supply chain, core operations, and enterprise operations, with potential relocation and the

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Manufacturing Engineering, Supply Chain, or other related degree with graduation date between Aug 2026 and May 2027.
• Minimum overall GPA of 3.0
• Must be able to commit to full-time work starting on Jan 11, 2027 or Jun 14, 2027.
• Demonstrated business acumen and sound judgment with ability to analyze information and apply operations best practices.
• Strong leadership, communication, and collaboration skills; ability to lead projects and influence across levels.

Responsibilities

• Deliver results through rotational assignments in operations, supply chain, quality, engineering, and enterprise functions.
• Lead projects that improve safety, quality, delivery, cost, and overall operational performance.
• Use data and problem-solving methods to identify and implement process improvements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to solve business challenges and drive results.
• Present project outcomes and recommendations to leaders and stakeholders.
• Develop leadership capabilities through mentorship, networking, and hands-on experience.
• Demonstrate adaptability, accountability and commitment to growth.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Collaboration

Problem solving

Education

B.S./M.S. in Industrial Engineering or Operations/Manufacturing/ Supply Chain

Tools

Microsoft Office

Power BI

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.

Company Overview

Polaris Inc. is a global leader in powersports, offering a diverse portfolio of products and services including boats, off‑road vehicles, commercial vehicles, and more. Since our founding in 1954, Polaris has pioneered product breakthroughs and enriching experiences that invite people to discover the joy of being outdoors.

At Polaris, 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 help create incredible products and experiences that empower us to Think Outside.

Leadership Development Program Overview

Launch your career at the intersection of manufacturing, supply chain, and operational excellence.

The Polaris Operations Leadership Development Program (OLDP) is an accelerated rotational program designed for high‑potential graduates who aspire to become the next generation of operations leaders. Through challenging assignments across supply chain, manufacturing, distribution, quality, and engineering, participants gain hands‑on experience solving real business challenges and driving meaningful results.

As an OLDP participant, you will lead impactful projects, learn from experienced leaders, and build the technical, business, and leadership capabilities needed to grow your career at Polaris.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver results through rotational assignments in operations, supply chain, quality, engineering, and enterprise functions.
• Lead projects that improve safety, quality, delivery, cost, and overall operational performance.
• Use data, business insights, and problem‑solving methods to identify and implement process improvements.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to solve business challenges and drive results.
• Present project outcomes and recommendations to business leaders and key stakeholders.
• Develop leadership capabilities through mentorship, networking, and hands‑on operational experience.
• Demonstrate adaptability, accountability, and commitment to continuous learning and growth.

Program Length: 3 Years

Rotation Length: 1 Year (3 Rotations)

Rotations may require relocation, and candidates must be willing and able to relocate.

Placement Locations may Include: Greater Twin Cities Metro, MN; Huntsville, AL; Roseau, MN; Battle Ground, WA.

Potential rotation areas include:

Core Supply Chain Rotation: Gain end‑to‑end exposure to supply chain operations, including material flow, production and supply planning, sourcing, logistics, and supplier performance, while supporting reliable, cost‑effective manufacturing and distribution. Core Operations Rotation: Support manufacturing and distribution operations through hands‑on experience in manufacturing engineering, quality, EHS, continuous improvement, or operations leadership, including direct exposure to front‑line supervision. Enterprise Operations: Lead an enterprise level capstone project focused on optimizing supply chain or operational performance through data analytics, process improvement, cost reduction, and strategic initiatives such as sustainability, automation, sourcing risk, or new product introduction.

Upon successful completion of the program, you will have the opportunity to transition into a full‑time Operations‑related position within the business, contingent on business needs and the skills and experience you demonstrate during the program.

Program Advantages:

As a Polaris employee, you will enjoy specific benefits beyond rotational experiences, including:

• Mentorship: You will be paired with a functional business leader establishing a mentor relationship that will begin in your DP journey and continue throughout your career with Polaris.
• Leadership Development: A blend of structured and self‑guided learning opportunities provided throughout the program that are intended to build leadership skills.
• Networking: Intentional time with peers and leaders at Polaris to build your professional network.
• Early Talent Summit Week_:_ You will participate in our 3-day event in our Wyoming, MN office. This immersive experience brings together all US interns and DPs for professional development, structured networking, a DP graduation event, inspiring executive speakers, and a thrilling team ride on some of your favorite Polaris vehicles.
• Community Engagement : Opportunity to get involved in your local community.
• Rotation Showcases : Present rotational accomplishments and career aspirations to senior‑level leaders.

Polaris Benefit Highlights:

• A generous 401K employee contribution matching program.
• Pay for Performance Company which uniquely allows employees to receive Annual Profit‑Sharing bonuses based upon the performance of the employee.
• Tuition Reimbursement program to support employees who want to further their education.

The Selection Process:

Applications are accepted from August‑November. Selected candidates will complete a phone screen followed by a business screen and a virtual panel interview with HR and business leaders. Upon acceptance, the Early Talent team will provide monthly communications including instructions on completing a Brand Slide, which supports your first rotation placement based on business needs, development areas, skills, and individual career aspirations. Placements are finalized in late October for January start dates and in mid April for June start dates. Your start with Polaris is based on graduation date, with roles beginning in either January or June.

DP Relocation Assistance:

Polaris offers a relocation program through our mobility vendor for employees who qualify. Benefits include a lump sum payment, self‑haul moving package, lease cancellation/duplicate housing reimbursement, and access to a relocation counselor. The counselor will explain available resources and assist in securing short‑term housing. You will be responsible for daily transportation to and from the office.

Required Qualifications:

• A bachelor’s or master’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Manufacturing Engineering, Supply Chain, or other related degree with a graduation date between August 2026 and May 2027.

• Minimum overall GPA of 3.0

• Must be able to commit to a full‑time work schedule starting on one of the following dates:

  • January 11th, 2027.
  • June 14th, 2027.

• Demonstrated business acumen and sound judgment with the ability to analyze information, solve problems, make recommendations, and apply operations best practices to business processes.

• Strong leadership, communication, and collaboration skills with the ability to lead projects, navigate ambiguity, build relationships, and influence across organizational levels.

• Foundational operations knowledge gained through coursework, internships, student organizations, case competitions, leadership experiences, or related operations projects.

• Must be a U.S. person (U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident, asylee, or refugee) and not require sponsorship for employment now or in the future.

• Must be willing to travel and relocate between sites for your rotations, as well as be mobile beyond the rotational program to support your career development.

• Must have reliable transportation for daily commuting to and from the office.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office software: Outlook, Excel, Word, Teams, SharePoint.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous Internship/Co‑op experience.
• High level of drive and career aspiration.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) or supply chain management software.
• Exposure to data analytics tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) or programming languages like Python or SQL for operations analysis.
• Understanding of manufacturing automation, IoT, or smart factory technologies.
• Experience working in cross‑functional or cross‑cultural teams.
• Demonstrated change management or project leadership experience

This position is not eligible for sponsorship.

We hope you’re ready for the ultimate adventure!

The starting pay range for Minnesota is $75,000 to $80,000 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.

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 generousmatching 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 [e-mail]. To read more about employment discrimination protection under U.S. federal law, see: Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal (eeoc.gov).