Test Driver and Mechanic - Marine Innovation

Polaris Inc; Florida; On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

Polaris Inc. in Fort Pierce, FL is seeking a hands-on technician to support prototype and pre-production ride-in and ride-on products. You will operate vehicles in demanding conditions, maintain the test fleet, collect data, and document impressions to inform engineering decisions.

The role requires advanced vehicle operation, mechanical aptitude, disciplined record keeping, and the ability to work outdoors in Florida heat. Travel up to 10% may be involved and confidentiality is essential.

Qualifications

• Operate ride-in/ride-on products in extreme conditions.
• Prior mechanical/technician experience preferred (3+ years).
• Valid driver's license with ability to tow trailers under 26,000 lb GCW.
• Must pass swim and water-safety evaluations and obtain safety training.

Responsibilities

• Execute daily durability, performance and development test schedules for prototype and pre-production products.
• Diagnose, repair, rebuild, and maintain test products and hardware systems.
• Load, unload, trailer, and transport test products between locations and manage parts inventory.
• Document configurations, test conditions, hours, weather, fuel usage, and failures in tracking systems.
• Prepare issue reports, preserve failed parts for teardown, and communicate safety-critical findings.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Record-keeping

Problem solving

Communication

Education

High school diploma

Technical certificate or two-year degree

Tools

SoMat eDAQ

VBOX

Diagnostic software

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:

Join the marine innovation team in Fort Pierce, Florida, supporting the development of prototype and pre-production ride-in and ride-on products. In this hands-on role, you will operate products in demanding real-world conditions, maintain and repair the test fleet, collect accurate test data, and document subjective performance impressions that inform engineering decisions. Success requires advanced vehicle operation, strong mechanical aptitude, disciplined record keeping, and strict confidentiality regarding unreleased products. Working directly with evolving designs provides meaningful involvement in product evaluation, issue resolution, and development testing.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute daily durability, performance, and development test schedules for prototype and pre-production ride-in and ride-on products, including operation at or near product capability limits in demanding environmental conditions.
• Follow prescribed test routes, duty cycles, and hour-accumulation targets while maintaining consistent throttle, speed, and maneuver profiles to support comparable results across test runs.
• Conduct back-to-back comparison evaluations between build levels, calibrations, and competitive benchmark products, and record structured subjective ratings for handling, cornering, traction or hookup, ride comfort, impact harshness, acceleration, top speed, sound quality, ergonomics, and controls.
• Diagnose, repair, rebuild, and maintain test products, including engine, propulsion, driveline, steering, fuel, cooling, electrical, and structural or exterior hardware systems.
• Perform scheduled maintenance, flushing, and pre-run and post-run inspections, and complete prototype builds, part swaps, running-change installations, and simple fabrication of brackets, mounts, and fixtures.
• Use data acquisition, diagnostic, and calibration equipment to capture test information, verify data quality, read fault codes, confirm sensor operation, and flash or verify controller software.
• Document product configurations, test conditions, operating hours, weather and environmental conditions, fuel usage, maintenance activities, failures, and issue repeatability in applicable tracking systems.
• Prepare concise and accurate issue reports, photograph and preserve failed parts for teardown and root-cause analysis, communicate safety-critical findings on the same day, and partner with responsible engineers to drive issues to resolution.
• Load, unload, trailer, and transport test products between evaluation locations and the test facility, and manage parts ordering, receiving, inventory, part numbers, and build configurations for the test fleet.
• Maintain clean and safe work areas, trailers, tow vehicles, and support equipment in accordance with OSHA and 5S requirements while following all personal protective equipment, operational safety, and confidentiality requirements.

Desired Competencies:

• 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, work with engineers to determine root causes, and implement practical solutions that balance speed, quality, and risk.
• Accountability: You take ownership of your responsibilities, follow through on commitments, and hold yourself to high standards for quality and results.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; a two-year degree or certificate in a technical field such as marine, automotive, small engines, powersports, mechanical, or electronics is preferred.
• At least 3 years of mechanic or technician experience is preferred; marine or powersports experience is strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to operate ride-in, ride-on, or powersports products in extreme conditions, including extended periods of standing, kneeling, and bracing against impacts.
• Valid driver’s license and the ability to drive trucks with trailers with a gross combined weight rating below 26,000 pounds.
• Florida Boating Safety Education ID Card, or the ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire.
• Strong swimming ability, comfort working on and in open water, and the ability to complete self-recovery activities; must pass a swim and water-safety evaluation and complete required test-operator safety training.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on problem-solving ability, with proficiency using general hand and power tools; marine or powersports service, specialized propulsion-component service, exterior surface repair, fabrication, machining, welding, forklift operation, and 12-volt electrical troubleshooting experience are preferred. (all tools and equipment will be provided)
• Basic computer skills and proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook; experience with data acquisition equipment such as SoMat eDAQ or VBOX and diagnostic software is preferred.
• Ability to communicate professionally, describe product behavior in actionable technical terms, maintain accurate records, protect confidential product information, and drive issues to timely closure.
• Ability to work outdoors for most of the shift in Florida heat, humidity, sun, rain, and saltwater spray; lift and carry up to 50 pounds frequently; assist with heavier loads using mechanical aids; work in bent, kneeling, and confined positions; and wear required personal protective equipment.
• Self-motivated and detail-oriented, with the ability to work under pressure, collaborate across the organization, and work overtime, early mornings, and occasional weekends to meet environmental and testing windows.
• Ability to travel up to 10% for product evaluation and development activities, including travel to Polaris Proving Grounds and other Polaris facilities.
• This position is not eligible for sponsorship.

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 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

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).