Headquartered in Toronto, Polar Racking Inc. is a North American leader in the design, engineering and manufacturing of PV mounting systems. We are at the forefront of PV innovation, leading the industry in cutting edge design with a focus on continuous innovation. Our vision is to deliver the highest value to our clients at the lowest cost per kWh. To support this, the company has a diversified portfolio of ground mount and carport products for the commercial and utility scale markets. This, coupled with our unique suite of engineering collaboration tools, technical services and installation support allow us to deliver turnkey solutions that are modular, lighter, and quicker to install. We support our North American and Caribbean clients from our locations in Toronto, Calgary, and US.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a Senior Manufacturing & Sourcing - Engineering to own manufacturability, cost, and supplier strategy from concept through production.
This role sits at the intersection of engineering design, manufacturing processes, and global sourcing. You will work closely with our engineering team early in the design cycle to influence part geometry, material selection, and manufacturing methods—before costs are locked in. You will also lead supplier identification, technical qualification, and commercial negotiations to ensure scalable, cost‑effective production.
This is an ideal role for a Manufacturing, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineer who:
- Understands how parts are made
- Enjoys value and cost engineering
- Is comfortable working directly with global suppliers
- Wants real ownership over cost and manufacturability outcomes—not just procurement execution
Key Responsibilities
Design for Manufacturability & Cost Engineering
- Partner with Engineering during concept and design reviews to optimize parts and assemblies (primarily steel, with aluminum, plastics, and rubber).
- Recommend cost‑effective manufacturing processes such as roll‑forming, stamping, extrusion, welding, casting, or machining.
- Lead value engineering initiatives and should‑cost analysis to influence design decisions while maintaining structural integrity and performance.
- Identify opportunities to standardize designs, reduce complexity, and lower total landed cost.
Manufacturing Process & Supplier Strategy
- Evaluate and recommend optimal manufacturing processes for new and existing components.
- Identify opportunities to shift processes or suppliers to improve cost, quality, and lead time.
- Research, qualify, and technically assess domestic and offshore suppliers for fabricated components and assemblies.
- Conduct supplier capability assessments and support quality audits as required.
Sourcing, Negotiation & Commercial Ownership
- Lead RFQ processes and supplier negotiations covering pricing, MOQs, lead times, quality requirements, and payment terms.
- Build and maintain long‑term supplier partnerships while preserving cost competitiveness.
- Support contract development and supplier performance management.
Sampling, Validation & Production Readiness
- Manage prototype and sample orders with new and existing suppliers.
- Coordinate testing, inspection, and feedback loops with engineering and quality teams.
- Support production ramp‑up and ongoing supplier improvement initiatives.
Logistics & Supply Chain Execution (Supportive Role)
- Coordinate logistics for samples and production orders, working with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and 3PL partners.
- Support shipments to warehouses and job sites across North America and the Caribbean.
- Ensure alignment with Incoterms and international trade requirements.
Market Intelligence & Risk Management
- Monitor steel and aluminum market trends and pricing.
- Develop alternate sourcing strategies to mitigate supply disruption and cost volatility.
Cross‑Functional Collaboration
- Act as a technical bridge between Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Project teams.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and design standardization efforts.
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, or Materials Engineering,
OR equivalent experience as a Manufacturing Engineer or Cost Engineer with strong exposure to fabricated metal components.
- 5–8 years of experience across manufacturing engineering, cost engineering, or technical sourcing in a metal‑based manufacturing environment.
- Strong understanding of steel and aluminum fabrication processes (roll‑forming, stamping, extrusion, welding, etc.).
- Experience influencing design for manufacturability and/or cost.
- Hands‑on experience working directly with suppliers (quoting, technical reviews, sampling).
Valued / Nice to Have
- Experience with plastics and rubber components.
- Direct ownership of supplier negotiations or commercial agreements.
- Exposure to global logistics and international sourcing.
- ERP experience (Microsoft Dynamics GP preferred).
- Advanced Excel skills.
- SCMP designation or progress toward certification.
- Experience in renewable energy or solar PV systems.
Why This Role Is Different
- You will influence designs before they are frozen
- You will have real authority over manufacturing method and supplier selection
- You will see your decisions directly impact cost per kWh
- You will work in a highly collaborative engineering‑driven environment
Why Polar Racking?
Join our team and become part of a dynamic company at the forefront of the renewable energy sector. In addition to competitive compensation, we offer a comprehensive benefits package including RRSP contributions, generous vacation time, and the opportunity for career growth.
As a valued member of our team, you'll also enjoy perks such as a company vehicle and a collaborative, fun work environment where innovation and teamwork are celebrated. If you're passionate about making a positive impact in the world while working with a supportive team, we invite you to apply and embark on an exciting journey with us.
We value an innovative, diverse workplace where all colleagues feel empowered to be their authentic selves. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace.
