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Sr. Exterior Designer

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.

Job Summary:

As a Vehicle Exterior Designer at Polaris, you will be part of a Dynamic, focused & connected global design team working on forward-thinking advanced concept & production designs as we create the next generation of extreme powersports vehicles in Off Road. We are looking for a Designer who thrives in a team environment and displays a strong ability to manage multiple tasks and timelines. We’re searching for a self-igniter with a considerable amount of perception, foresight, design taste, design judgment, and creative bravery as well as a high level of skill, accuracy, and coordination who thrive on exploring the unknown in design and are seeking unique design projects. You will create fresh, innovative exterior designs for multiple Polaris vehicles or other products. You will collaboratively refine ideas as you receive feedback and coordinate with the work of other design team members and collaborate with multiple partners to achieve design goals. You will follow design process from the initial research, story creation & sketch form to the final release clay model. If you are driven and eager to propel your career forward, take your next step in joining a team that will re-define the future of Off-Road Mobility and continue to lead the industry in Off Road Innovation, excitement and entertainment.

Job Responsibilities

  • Showcases excellence in visual creation and storytelling thru imaginative, compelling original solutions and/or adaptations for exterior designs through research, visual concept exploration, & 3D exploration / execution.
  • Present concepts and ideas to peers and management, and participates in peer reviews during the weekly design critique meetings
  • Exhibits an excellence in surface exploration, development and manipulation
  • Partners and collaborates with Engineering to lead design-for-manufacturing practices and efficiencies while delivering advanced and innovative design solutions
  • Leads Design Craftsmanship reviews with cross-functional partners and teams
  • Develops and leads visual-brand characteristics, design elements & Form language
  • Interpret industry trends and insights into actionable storytelling and design solutions
  • Collaborate frequently with the design team, sculpting organization, engineering and fabrication teams in the development of new designs
  • Provide insight and recommendations to leadership while possessing willingness to receive guidance and direction
  • Maintain knowledge of current design trends and technology. Present ideas frequently to management and leadership to communicate design ideas
  • Exhibit passion, courage and a willingness to challenge expectations and be fearless in exploring the future
  • Exhibits and practices a curiosity about design, trends and technology developments that can influence creative work.
  • Advanced skills in verbal & visual communication and storytelling.
  • Other duties as assigned

Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications)

  • Bachelor’s degree in design (Automotive Design, Transportation Design, Industrial Design)
  • 5+ years of professional experience in a design related field, automotive, transportation, powersports, is strongly desired
  • Blender and or Gravity experience in VR/AR environments.
  • Intimate knowledge of plastics and casting tools with the ability to adjust designs to manufacturing criteria
  • Strong understanding of form and excellent drawing skills
  • Great communication & storytelling skills
  • Proven creative proficiency
  • Demonstrated ability with electronic tools to communicate 2-D ideations
  • Ability to work independently and within a team as well as provide mentoring to others
  • Please note, you must submit a Portfolio to be considered for this position – please make sure that you have several series of sketches and ideations

The pay range for Minnesota is $110,000 to $140,000 per year. Individual salaries are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge, skills, and geography.

To qualify for this position, former employees must be eligible for rehire, and current employees must be in good standing.

We are an ambitious, resourceful, and driven workforce, which empowers us to THINK OUTSIDE.  Apply today!

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 generous matching 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

As the global leader in powersports, 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; Indian Motorcycle® mid-size and heavyweight motorcycles; 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 Talent.Acquisition@Polaris.com.  To read more about employment discrimination protection under U.S. federal law, see: Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal (eeoc.gov).

Average salary estimate

$125000 / YEARLY (est.)
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max
$110000K
$140000K

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What You Should Know About Sr. Exterior Designer, Polaris

Join Polaris Inc. as a Sr. Exterior Designer, where creativity meets innovation in Medina, MN! At Polaris, we take pride in our fun and dynamic environment that encourages employees to embrace challenging assignments. As a part of our connected global design team, you will engage in developing cutting-edge exterior designs for our next generation of off-road vehicles. This role requires a designer who is not only skilled in visual storytelling but also thrives in a collaborative atmosphere. You'll be responsible for leading the design process from research and concept sketching all the way to creating final clay models, ensuring that every vehicle showcases our commitment to quality and innovation. Your ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while incorporating feedback will be vital to your success. You should possess a keen eye for design, along with strong presentation skills to effectively communicate ideas to both peers and leadership. If you're eager to push the boundaries of design and tackle exciting projects while positively impacting the off-road mobility industry, then we want to hear from you! Come be a part of something extraordinary at Polaris, where employees are not just workers but owners who lead the charge in redefining outdoor recreation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Sr. Exterior Designer Role at Polaris
What are the main responsibilities of a Sr. Exterior Designer at Polaris Inc.?

As a Sr. Exterior Designer at Polaris Inc., your primary responsibilities will include creating innovative exterior designs for vehicles, leading the design process from initial research to the final clay model, and collaborating closely with engineering and other teams to ensure feasibility and excellence in your designs. You will also participate in design critiques and engage in storytelling through visual concepts, making sure that your designs resonate with the Polaris brand.

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What qualifications are needed to become a Sr. Exterior Designer at Polaris Inc.?

To qualify for the Sr. Exterior Designer position at Polaris Inc., candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in design, such as Automotive or Industrial Design, along with at least five years of relevant experience in automotive or powersports design. Familiarity with tools like Blender for VR/AR environments and an understanding of materials like plastics are crucial. Strong visual communication and storytelling skills are also essential to succeed in this role.

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How does Polaris Inc. foster innovation in the Sr. Exterior Designer role?

At Polaris Inc., innovation is at the core of the Sr. Exterior Designer role. Designers are encouraged to explore the unknown, utilize their creative instincts, and challenge conventional design norms. The agile work environment allows for collaboration with cross-functional teams and integrates industry trends into actionable design solutions, empowering designers to lead the charge for the next generation of off-road vehicles.

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What skills are essential for a successful Sr. Exterior Designer at Polaris Inc.?

Essential skills for success as a Sr. Exterior Designer at Polaris Inc. include advanced drawing and visual communication abilities, strong attention to detail in design execution, and the capacity to manage multiple projects effectively. Equally important is the ability to collaborate with various teams and offer mentorship to junior designers, fostering a culture of teamwork and innovation in the process.

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What can candidates expect in terms of career growth for the Sr. Exterior Designer position at Polaris Inc.?

Candidates stepping into the Sr. Exterior Designer role at Polaris Inc. can look forward to robust career growth opportunities. The company values its employees as stakeholders and offers continual professional development, exposure to groundbreaking projects, and the chance to shape the future of in-demand off-road vehicles in the powersports industry.

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Common Interview Questions for Sr. Exterior Designer
Can you describe your design process for creating exterior vehicle designs?

To effectively answer this question, you'll want to outline your design process, emphasizing research, concept development, and how you integrate feedback. Mention specific tools, such as sketching or 3D modeling software, and your methods for staying current with industry trends, showcasing your structured approach to developing innovative designs.

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How do you collaborate with engineering teams in your design projects?

Highlight your teamwork approach and the importance of partnership in design projects. Discuss how you communicate ideas clearly and consider engineering feasibility as you develop concepts. Provide an example of a time when collaboration led to a successful design solution, showing your proactive nature in working with cross-functional teams.

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What techniques do you use to keep your designs fresh and innovative?

Share your approach to staying inspired and continuously learning, such as attending workshops, exploring design exhibitions, or utilizing design software like Blender. Discuss how you incorporate new trends and technologies into your work and brainstorm creative solutions to maintain a unique edge in your designs.

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Can you give an example of a challenging design project you've worked on?

When answering this question, pick a project that tested your limits. Clearly explain the challenges faced, your problem-solving methods, and the ultimate success of the project. This demonstrates your resilience and ability to overcome obstacles, vital traits for a Sr. Exterior Designer.

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What is your experience with materials like plastics and casting tools?

Detail your familiarity with materials and manufacturing processes relevant to vehicle design. Discuss how your knowledge has influenced your designs in terms of functionality and aesthetics. Highlight any experiences where you had to adapt your designs based on material properties.

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How do you handle constructive criticism on your designs?

Show your openness and eagerness to improve by describing how you engage with feedback. Emphasize your willingness to refine ideas based on peer or management critiques and how you view such processes as opportunities for growth, reflecting a positive attitude toward constructive dialogue.

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What role do storytelling and visual communication play in your design work?

Illustrate how storytelling drives your design process, making your work relatable and engaging for the audience. Discuss specific examples where you have successfully communicated your design concepts through visuals, showcasing your capability in combining creativity with effective communication.

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How do you stay organized when balancing multiple design projects?

Elaborate on your project management strategies, which may include using digital tools, prioritizing tasks based on deadlines, and regularly tracking progress. Share examples of how you have successfully managed overlapping designs in a fast-paced environment to illustrate your effectiveness.

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What motivates you to push the boundaries of design?

Connect your personal passion for design with your inspiration from industry innovations and trends. Share stories of your own experiences that pushed you out of your comfort zone and how these moments have helped define your career as a creative professional.

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How do you keep yourself updated on the latest design trends and technologies?

Discuss your methods for continuous learning, such as subscribing to design publications, participating in online courses, or engaging in design communities. Reflect on how staying updated empowers you to integrate fresh ideas into your designs effectively.

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Best People. Best Team. We are an ambitious, resourceful, and driven culture, which empowers us to Think Outside

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Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
April 7, 2025

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