Per Diem Powertrain Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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:
You will support the development and validation of engines, CVT systems, and drivelines for Snow and Off-Road vehicles through hands-on testing and analysis. In this role, you will work closely with engineers to build, instrument, and execute dynamometer tests while generating data that informs performance and product quality decisions. Your work will span test setup, execution, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of processes and documentation. You will contribute directly to the evaluation and refinement of powertrain systems used in real-world applications. This role offers the opportunity to gain deep, practical experience with advanced powertrain systems while influencing measurable engineering outcomes.
Key Responsibilities:
• Set up, configure, and update engines and powertrain hardware for dynamometer testing, including required instrumentation.
• Prepare engines for testing through assembly, teardown, inspection, and validation configuration.
• Operate engine dynamometers and execute validation test plans according to defined procedures.
• Install and utilize data acquisition systems and associated software to capture test results.
• Ensure the quality, accuracy, and integrity of all test data generated during validation activities.
• Disassemble and reassemble engines and powertrain components to support testing and evaluation needs.
• Troubleshoot mechanical and electrical issues associated with test setups and powertrain systems.
• Develop, maintain, and improve test processes, procedures, and documentation.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to support development efforts and resolve technical issues.
• Perform light fabrication work to support testing requirements.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in accordance with OSHA requirements and 5S principles.
• Support occasional field development activities within the continental United States.
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, 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.
Additional Qualifications/Responsibilities
Qualifications:
• Technical degree related to engines or powertrain systems or minimum of 1 year of experience with high-performance small engines.
• Minimum of 1 year of hands-on experience working with engines or powertrain systems.
• Strong understanding of internal combustion engines and CVT systems.
• Hands-on experience assembling, disassembling, and measuring engines.
• Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting and diagnostic skills.
• Experience with data acquisition systems or testing environments.
• Strong technical analysis, problem solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience with vehicle electrical systems, wiring, and reading schematics is preferred.
• Familiarity with engine dynamometer testing is preferred.
• Experience with fabrication and shop processes such as machining, welding, soldering, brazing, or fiberglass work is preferred.
• Experience performing detailed teardown inspections and documenting results is preferred.
• This position is not eligible for sponsorship.
The starting pay range for Minnesota is $24.00 to $31.00 per hour, plus eligibility for overtime. Individual pay 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.