IQAN Programmer - Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: IQAN Programmer - Product Designer

Company: Tigercat | MacDonald Steel

Location: Brant, Ontario, Canada

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering / Software Development / Product Design

Date Posted: 2026-06-18

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Design, develop, and maintain IQAN control programming for Tigercat's 400 and 700 product lines, focusing on enhancing machine management and operational efficiency.

• Implement advanced diagnostics systems within IQAN software to proactively identify and resolve machine failures, minimizing costly downtime in rugged forestry environments.

• Collaborate closely with the control systems technical team, contributing to new machine development and optimizing overall equipment controllability.

• Update Human-Machine Interface (HMI) elements in line with established control systems team standards, ensuring intuitive user interaction.

• Develop comprehensive test plans and logic to improve troubleshooting processes and enhance the repeatability of hydraulic setup and tuning for machinery.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role bridges software development with product design, specifically within the specialized domain of mobile machinery control systems. The "IQAN Programmer - Product Designer" title suggests a dual focus on creating functional code and ensuring the user experience and overall product integration within complex machinery. The emphasis on "rugged and challenging terrain of the forestry industry" indicates a need for robust, reliable, and efficient control solutions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Analyze user requirements and project specifications to design, code, simulate, test, maintain, and document IQAN programs for mobile equipment control.

• Travel to field locations as needed to optimize machine performance, troubleshoot issues, and gather direct feedback for system improvements.

• Actively participate in the control systems technical team, contributing to design reviews, technical discussions, and collaborative problem-solving sessions.

• Engage in new machine development initiatives, providing critical input on control system integration to optimize overall machine controllability and performance.

• Develop and update HMI screens and interfaces to align with evolving standards and user interface best practices established by the control systems team.

• Create detailed test plans, diagnostic routines, and troubleshooting logic to facilitate efficient problem identification and resolution for field technicians and end-users.

• Design and implement logic to ensure consistent and repeatable machine hydraulic setup and tuning processes, improving overall operational reliability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on approach involving both software development and direct field application support. The travel component is critical for understanding real-world operational challenges and translating them into software solutions. The emphasis on "new machine development" indicates involvement in the product lifecycle from conception to implementation.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree or Diploma in a relevant field such as Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Electronics Technology, or Computer Science. Experience:

• Proven experience in software development, with a strong preference for Parker IQAN programming.

• Previous experience in industries such as construction, agriculture, mining, or material handling equipment is highly desirable.

• Experience with PLC or embedded programming will be considered, provided there is a demonstrated willingness and aptitude to learn IQAN. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in IQAN programming environments and methodologies.

• Strong understanding of C, C++, or similar logic-based programming languages for embedded systems.

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, essential for collaborating with cross-functional teams and field support.

• Ability to analyze complex technical problems and develop innovative solutions.

• Willingness to provide support to team members in the field, including travel when required.

• Capability to effectively present technical information to internal stakeholders and external groups. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Human-Machine Interface (HMI) design and development.

• Familiarity with diagnostic systems and their implementation in control software.

• Knowledge of robotics, automation principles, sensors, engines, and hydraulic controls.

• Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software such as AutoCAD and SolidWorks.

• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite for documentation and reporting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of specialized programming knowledge (IQAN, C/C++) and broader engineering principles (Mechatronics, Hydraulics, Automation). The explicit mention of considering PLC/embedded programming experience with a willingness to learn IQAN suggests an openness to candidates with transferable skills, broadening the potential talent pool. The preference for industry-specific experience highlights the unique demands of the forestry equipment sector.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase projects demonstrating your ability to design, code, and implement IQAN programs for complex machinery.

• Include examples of diagnostic systems you have developed, highlighting their effectiveness in reducing machine downtime.

• Present case studies of how you optimized machine controllability or improved hydraulic setup/tuning through software solutions.

• Provide documentation or examples of HMI designs you have contributed to, emphasizing user-friendliness and clarity. Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate your approach to analyzing programming requirements and translating them into functional IQAN code.

• Include examples of test plans, simulation results, or debugging methodologies used to ensure program reliability.

• Showcase your documentation practices, including code comments, technical manuals, or user guides developed for IQAN programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical application of IQAN programming and problem-solving skills within a product design context. The emphasis should be on tangible results, such as improved efficiency, reduced downtime, and enhanced user interaction.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $34 - $40 CAD per hour (based on experience and qualifications)

Benefits:

• Competitive Wages and Profit Sharing: In addition to competitive hourly rates, employees share in the company's financial success through profit sharing.

• RRSP Matching Program: Tigercat offers a retirement savings plan with company matching to support employee financial planning.

• Skills Development and Training Reimbursement: Opportunities for self-identified, industry-related learning with pre-approval and reimbursement.

• Company-Paid Healthcare Benefits and EAP: Comprehensive healthcare coverage including prescriptions, massages, physiotherapy, and vision. An Employee and Family Assistance Program (EAP) is also provided.

• Active Social Committee: Numerous social events throughout the year, including family picnics, holiday parties, theatre events, and sporting activities.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with potential for overtime as required by project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The stated salary range of $34-$40 CAD per hour is for Brant, Ontario, Canada. This range is typical for mid-level engineering or specialized programming roles in this region, considering the required technical expertise and industry focus. The benefits package is robust, emphasizing employee well-being, financial security, and a strong community culture.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Heavy Equipment Manufacturing (Forestry, Agriculture, Material Handling). Tigercat is a prominent manufacturer of forestry harvesting and site preparation machines, known for their robust engineering and specialized applications.

Company Size: Tigercat Industries is a significant player in its niche, employing hundreds to thousands of individuals globally. This size indicates a stable organization with established processes, but also potential for growth and specialized teams.

Founded: Tigercat was founded in 1992. Its history reflects a commitment to innovation and specialized machinery development within its core markets.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the "Control Systems Technical Team," suggesting a dedicated group of engineers and programmers focused on the electronic and software aspects of Tigercat's machinery.

• This team likely collaborates closely with mechanical engineering, hydraulic engineering, and product development departments.

• Reporting structure will likely involve a lead engineer or engineering manager overseeing the control systems function. Methodology:

• Data-driven development: Emphasis on analyzing performance data, field feedback, and simulation results to inform programming decisions.

• Iterative design: Continuous improvement of IQAN programs through testing, refinement, and updates based on operational performance and user feedback.

• Cross-functional collaboration: Close work with other engineering disciplines to ensure integrated and optimized machine designs.

• Focus on reliability and durability: Given the "rugged and challenging terrain" context, a primary methodology is to build robust and fault-tolerant systems.

Company Website: https://www.tigercat.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Tigercat's focus on heavy machinery for demanding environments implies a company culture that values durability, reliability, innovation, and a strong engineering foundation. The "family-oriented" and "tight-knit family" descriptions suggest a culture that prioritizes employee relationships and a supportive work environment, which can be attractive for operations and engineering professionals seeking stability and camaraderie.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level "Programmer - Product Designer," requiring a solid foundation in programming and engineering principles, with 2-5 years of relevant experience. It's a contributor role with significant technical responsibility.

Reporting Structure: The individual will report to a lead within the Control Systems Technical Team. This team likely works closely with broader engineering and product development departments.

Operations Impact: The IQAN Programmer's work directly impacts machine performance, efficiency, reliability, and ease of maintenance. By developing robust control systems and diagnostic tools, this role contributes significantly to customer satisfaction, reduced operational costs for end-users, and Tigercat's reputation for quality and innovation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in IQAN programming, advanced hydraulics control, or specific areas like diagnostics and HMI design within the forestry equipment sector.

• Leadership: Progress to a senior programmer, lead engineer, or technical team lead role, managing projects and mentoring junior team members.

• Cross-Functional Movement: Transition into product development, systems engineering, or even field application engineering roles, leveraging deep understanding of machine controls.

• Continuous Learning: Benefit from training reimbursement to acquire new skills in emerging automation, IoT, or advanced control technologies relevant to heavy machinery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for an IQAN Programmer at a company like Tigercat typically involves becoming a subject matter expert in their niche or moving into leadership roles. The company's emphasis on innovation suggests opportunities to work on cutting-edge technologies within heavy equipment.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, requiring presence at the Brant, Ontario facility. The work environment will likely be a combination of office space for design and programming tasks, and potentially lab or workshop areas for testing and integration.

Office Location(s): Brant, Ontario, Canada. This location offers access to a skilled workforce and is part of Ontario's industrial landscape.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative environment: Expected to work closely with a technical team, requiring open communication and shared problem-solving.

• Access to advanced tools: Likely equipped with necessary programming software (IQANstudio, IDEs), simulation tools, and potentially hardware-in-the-loop testing setups.

• Industry-specific challenges: The environment is geared towards developing solutions for demanding, real-world applications in the forestry industry, which can be stimulating for engineers.

• Interaction opportunities: Regular interaction with mechanical and hydraulic engineers, product managers, and potentially field support teams.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week, Monday to Friday. Flexibility may be available depending on project deadlines and team needs, but core hours are expected for team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is typical for roles involving intricate hardware integration and direct team collaboration. The description implies a practical, engineering-focused environment where theoretical knowledge is applied to physical machinery.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter will review applications and resumes, focusing on relevant programming experience (IQAN, C/C++), education, and industry background.

• Technical Interview: Candidates will likely undergo an interview with hiring managers and senior engineers from the Control Systems team. Expect questions on programming logic, problem-solving scenarios, and understanding of control systems.

• Coding/Design Challenge: A practical exercise might be given, potentially involving pseudocode, system design for a specific function, or a case study related to machine control or diagnostics. Previous IQAN project examples are highly valuable here.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates will be asked to present and discuss their past projects, highlighting their contributions, technical challenges overcome, and the impact of their work. This is a critical step to demonstrate practical skills.

• Final Interview/Cultural Fit: A final discussion, possibly with department leadership, to assess overall fit with the team and company culture, and to discuss career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight IQAN Expertise: Clearly showcase projects developed using IQAN. Detail the specific challenges addressed, your design choices, and the outcomes achieved (e.g., improved efficiency, reduced error rates).

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: For each project, explain the problem you were solving, your approach, and the specific technical solutions you implemented. Quantify results whenever possible (e.g., "reduced cycle time by 15%," "decreased diagnostic time by 30%").

• Include Relevant Technologies: If you have experience with C/C++, PLCs, AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or hydraulic systems, ensure these are visible in your portfolio alongside your IQAN work.

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically. Use clear descriptions, diagrams, code snippets (if appropriate and permissible), and screenshots of HMI interfaces.

• Present with Confidence: Be prepared to walk through your projects, explaining your role, the technologies used, and the impact of your work. Practice your presentation to ensure smooth delivery and clear articulation of technical concepts.

Challenge Preparation:

• Review Core Concepts: Refresh your knowledge of programming fundamentals (loops, conditionals, data structures), embedded systems, and basic control theory.

• IQAN Familiarity: If you have prior IQAN experience, review common functions, modules, and best practices. If not, research IQAN's capabilities and common applications in mobile machinery.

• Systems Thinking: Practice thinking about how different components of a machine (engine, hydraulics, sensors, HMI) interact and how software controls these interactions.

• Diagnostics Design: Consider how you would design a diagnostic system for common equipment failures (e.g., hydraulic pressure loss, sensor malfunction, engine issues).

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and potential technical challenges underscores the practical, hands-on nature of this role. Candidates should be prepared to showcase their ability to translate theoretical knowledge into functional, efficient, and reliable control systems for complex machinery.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Parker IQANdesign: The primary software suite for programming IQAN controllers, including IQANscript for advanced logic.

• IQANrun: Software for parameter setting, diagnostics, and calibration of IQAN systems.

• C/C++ Compilers/IDEs: For embedded programming and potentially developing custom libraries or firmware.

• Version Control Systems: Git (e.g., GitHub, GitLab, Bitbucket) for managing code changes and collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Excel for data analysis, Word for documentation, PowerPoint for presentations.

• Potential Data Analysis Tools: Depending on the complexity of diagnostics and performance monitoring, tools like MATLAB or specialized data logging/analysis software might be used.

CRM & Automation:

• CAD Software: AutoCAD and SolidWorks for viewing machine designs and understanding mechanical integration.

• HMI Development Tools: Integrated within IQANdesign or specific HMI development platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the IQAN suite of tools is paramount. Experience with related embedded programming languages and CAD software is also highly relevant, indicating a candidate who can work within the broader engineering ecosystem of the company.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Engineering Excellence: A strong drive to push the boundaries of what's possible in heavy equipment technology through robust engineering solutions.

• Reliability & Durability: A core value reflected in the design and programming of machinery built to withstand harsh conditions.

• Customer Focus: Commitment to understanding and meeting the demanding needs of customers in specialized industries like forestry.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Emphasis on working together across disciplines to achieve common goals, fostering a supportive environment.

• Safety: A paramount concern in the design and operation of heavy machinery.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Teams: Expect close collaboration between software engineers, mechanical engineers, hydraulic specialists, and product development teams.

• Field Feedback Loop: A culture that values input from field service and direct customer experience to drive improvements.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement of sharing technical insights and best practices within the control systems team and broader engineering departments.

• Problem-Solving Orientation: A proactive approach to identifying and resolving technical challenges through collective effort.

📝 Enhancement Note: Tigercat's culture likely values practical, hands-on problem-solving and a deep understanding of the machinery's operational context. The "family-oriented" aspect suggests a supportive and cohesive team dynamic.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Mobile Hydraulics: Mastering the intricate interplay of electronics, software, and hydraulics in dynamic mobile applications.

• Harsh Operating Environments: Designing software that remains robust and reliable under extreme temperatures, vibration, dust, and moisture.

• Balancing Performance and Efficiency: Optimizing machine performance while minimizing fuel consumption and environmental impact through intelligent control.

• Rapid Technological Advancements: Keeping pace with evolving automation, IoT, and advanced sensor technologies applicable to heavy equipment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to advanced training on IQAN systems, new controller technologies, and related software tools.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining deep expertise in the specific needs and challenges of the forestry, agriculture, and material handling industries.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced engineers and technical leaders within the control systems team.

• Project Diversity: Exposure to a range of machine types and control system applications, fostering broad skill development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to working with sophisticated, heavy-duty machinery in demanding environments. The growth opportunities are substantial for individuals looking to become experts in a specialized engineering field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex control system you've designed or programmed. What were the key challenges, and how did you address them?" (Prepare to discuss IQAN or similar programming, system design, and troubleshooting.)

• "How would you approach designing a diagnostic system for a hydraulic pump failure in a forestry harvester?" (Focus on logical flow, sensor integration, and user feedback.)

• "Walk us through your process for testing and verifying new IQAN code before deployment to the field." (Detail your testing methodologies, simulation, and documentation.)

• "How do you ensure your HMI designs are intuitive and effective for operators working in demanding conditions?" (Discuss user-centric design principles and iterative feedback.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Tigercat and the forestry equipment industry specifically?" (Research Tigercat's products, market position, and values.)

• "How do you handle collaborating with engineers from different disciplines (e.g., mechanical, hydraulic) when their priorities might differ?" (Emphasize communication, compromise, and shared goals.)

• "Describe a time you had to support a team member or customer in the field. What was the situation, and how did you resolve it?" (Highlight problem-solving, communication, and adaptability.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select High-Impact Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best demonstrate your IQAN programming skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of control systems.

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly state the problem, your solution, the technologies used, and the quantitative results (e.g., efficiency gains, downtime reduction).

• Explain Your Role: Be specific about your individual contributions, especially if it was a team project.

• Use Visuals: Incorporate diagrams, flowcharts, code snippets (if appropriate), and screenshots of HMI interfaces to illustrate your work.

• Connect to Tigercat: Briefly explain how your skills and experience align with Tigercat's products and the requirements of this specific role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of control systems, practical programming skills (especially IQAN), and the ability to apply these skills in a challenging, real-world industrial context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this IQAN Programmer - Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided Dayforce link.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight specific experience with IQAN programming, C/C++, PLC programming, and any relevant industries (forestry, agriculture, material handling). Quantify achievements with metrics where possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate examples of your programming projects, focusing on IQAN. Be ready to present case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities, system design, and impact on machine performance or diagnostics.

• Research Tigercat: Familiarize yourself with Tigercat's product lines, their applications in the forestry industry, and the company's values. Understand the challenges of operating heavy machinery in rugged environments.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to answer technical questions about control systems, programming logic, and troubleshooting. Practice articulating your experience and portfolio projects clearly and concisely.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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