Sr. Powertrain Calibration Lead Engineer

North Pole Star, S. de R.L. de C.V.; Wyoming (MN); On-site; USD 96,000 - 127,000; Full time

Job summary

Polaris Inc. is seeking a Sr. Powertrain Calibration Lead Engineer to own calibration strategy and delivery for next‑generation powertrains, from requirements through production release.

You will lead calibration teams, coordinate with module leads, controls, design, validation, and project management to balance performance, drivability, emissions, durability, and risk. This hands-on role spans dyno, vehicle, field, certification, and production environments, with responsibility for data

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or master's in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering.
• Minimum of five years of engineering experience.
• Minimum of two years leading calibration work to production release.
• Strong knowledge of engine fundamentals related to controls, performance, and emissions.
• Proficiency with ETAS INCA and/or Vector CANape, CAN, and A2L/MDF data handling.
• Proficiency with data analysis tools such as Concerto and MATLAB.
• Ability to manage multiple projects with domestic and international partners.
• EPA/CARB certification and diagnostics experience preferred.
• Willingness to travel up to 25%.

Responsibilities

• Define and document calibration requirements for performance, drivability, emissions, durability, and diagnostics at program start.
• Develop and own the calibration plan, work breakdown, timing, resource needs, test procedures, and equipment.

Skills

Leadership

Collaboration

Critical thinking

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering

Tools

ETAS INCA

Vector CANape

CAN bus

A2L/MDF

Concerto

MATLAB

Microsoft Office

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.

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.

The starting pay range for Minnesota is $96,000 to $127,000 per year. Individual salaries and posi