Sr Vehicle Dynamics Engineer (Architecture & Simulation Methods)

About the role

Polaris Inc. is seeking a skilled Simulation Engineer to join our team. This role involves leading the application of advanced simulation and modeling techniques to support early-stage vehicle development and system-level design decisions.

Responsibilities

• Lead early-stage vehicle architecture development through system-level simulation, trade studies, and performance analysis.
• Define and evaluate vehicle dynamic targets, attributes, and performance metrics across multiple use cases.
• Develop, maintain, and refine high-fidelity full-vehicle simulation models using tools such as CarSim.
• Conduct scenario-based simulations, including handling, ride, stability, and durability inputs, to assess vehicle performance.
• Perform system-level analysis to support design decisions across chassis, suspension, steering, and mass distribution.
• Develop and standardize simulation methodologies, modeling frameworks, and best practices.
• Drive automation and efficiency improvements in simulation workflows through scripting and tool development.
• Collaborate with design engineering teams to guide subsystem development using simulation insights.
• Partner with test and ride and handling teams to correlate simulation results with physical test data.
• Translate complex simulation outputs into clear, actionable recommendations for cross-functional stakeholders.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship on vehicle dynamics modeling and simulation practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in vehicle dynamics and system-level performance modeling.
• Experience with multi-body dynamics and full-vehicle simulation tools.
• Demonstrated ability to develop or apply simulation methods to inform engineering decisions.
• Experience correlating simulation models with test data.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience using CarSim for full-vehicle dynamics simulation.
• Experience influencing early-stage vehicle architecture and design decisions.
• Experience with automation, scripting, or tool development (e.g., Python or similar).

Pay

The starting pay range for Minnesota is $109,000 to $144,000 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.