Sculpting Intern: Clay & Digital Vehicle Design

Polaris Inc; Medina (MN); On-site; USD 28,000 - 43,000; Full time

Job summary

Polaris Inc. is seeking an on-site Sculpting Intern to contribute to the creative development of future powersports vehicles.

You will work with designers, digital modelers, and engineers to transform sketches into digital and physical models within a fast-paced design studio. You will build sketch models and production‑representative surfaces, supporting reviews and milestones while developing your portfolio in a hands‑on environment.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing an Associate of Applied Science (AAS), Bachelor's, or Master's degree in Transportation Design, Industrial Design, Model Design, Clay Sculpting, Digital Modeling or Fine Arts.
• Demonstrates clay sculpting and digital modeling capabilities through a curated portfolio showcasing three‑dimensional form development, craftsmanship, and design problem‑solving. Portfolio submissions will only be accepted in PDF format.
• Demonstrates an understanding of design principles, surface development, proportion, and three‑dimensional form creation.
• Experience with digital modeling software such as Alias, Blender, Gravity Sketch, Maya, Rhino, Fusion, NX, or similar 3D modeling tools is required.
• Strong interest in vehicle and industrial design with a passion for creativity, craftsmanship, and model‑making.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Self‑motivated, detail‑oriented, and eager to learn within a professional design studio environment.
• Able to work onsite and full‑time (40 hours per week) during the internship period.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with digital modelers, clay sculptors and designers to interpret concept sketches and translate them into digital and physical models that communicate future vehicle themes and design direction.
• Utilize digital and clay sculpting techniques to develop sketch models, concept models, and production‑representative surfaces that reflect design intent while considering engineering and manufacturing requirements.
• Support studio model development activities by ensuring accuracy, craftsmanship, and timely delivery of models for design reviews, stakeholder evaluations, and program milestones.
• Participate in design reviews, present work progress, and incorporate feedback to continuously refine digital and physical models.
• Assist with model preparation, studio organization, and other sculpting‑related activities that support the vehicle development process.

Skills

Clay sculpting

Digital modeling

Portfolio development

Team collaboration

Communication

Self-motivation

Detail-oriented

Education

AAS/Bachelor's/Master's in Transportation Design or related field

Tools

Alias

Blender

Gravity Sketch

Maya

Rhino

Fusion 360

NX

Job description

Polaris Inc. is seeking an on-site Sculpting Intern to contribute to the creative development of future powersports vehicles.

You will work with designers, digital modelers, and engineers to transform sketches into digital and physical models within a fast-paced design studio. You will build sketch models and production‑representative surfaces, supporting reviews and milestones while developing your portfolio in a hands‑on environment.