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 / Operations Technology

Date Posted: 2026-07-24

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on developing and implementing IQAN control programming for Tigercat's 400 and 700 product lines, directly impacting machine efficiency and operational uptime.

• The position requires a blend of software development expertise, strong mechanical aptitude, and a deep understanding of hydraulic and control systems for heavy machinery in the forestry industry.

• Responsibilities include analyzing, coding, simulating, testing, and documenting IQAN programs, as well as contributing to new machine development for enhanced controllability.

• The role involves field support and optimization, requiring travel to address performance issues and collaborate with on-site teams to ensure seamless integration and functionality of control systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title includes "Product Designer," the core responsibilities and required skills heavily lean towards an embedded systems/controls engineer role, specifically focused on IQAN programming within the heavy machinery (forestry) sector. This suggests an operations technology or industrial automation focus rather than traditional product design. The "Product Designer" aspect likely refers to the design of the control software itself.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Analyze, code, simulate, test, maintain, and document IQAN programs for Tigercat's 400 and 700 product lines, ensuring robust and efficient machine operation.

• Design and implement advanced diagnostics systems within IQAN to minimize machine downtime by facilitating rapid troubleshooting and repair in the field.

• Travel to field locations to optimize machine performance, address technical concerns, and provide on-site support for control systems.

• Collaborate within the control systems technical team on new machine development, focusing on optimizing controllability and integrating advanced features.

• Update Human-Machine Interface (HMI) designs and logic in accordance with standards established by the control systems team to enhance user experience and operational clarity.

• Develop comprehensive test plans and logic to significantly improve troubleshooting efficiency and repeatability for machine hydraulic setups and tuning.

• Contribute to the development of software logic that enhances the repeatability and consistency of machine hydraulic system setup and tuning processes.

• Participate in cross-functional team meetings to align control system development with overall machine design and operational requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on field travel, diagnostics, and hydraulic system optimization strongly indicates a role deeply embedded within the operational efficiency and product support lifecycle, common in heavy equipment manufacturing. The "Product Designer" aspect is interpreted as designing the functional software logic and user interfaces for the control systems.

🎓 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:

• Mid-level experience (2-5 years) in roles involving embedded systems programming, control systems development, or PLC programming.

• Proven experience with Parker IQAN programming is highly desirable.

• Experience in industries such as construction, agriculture, mining, or material handling equipment is a significant asset. Required Skills:

• Proficient in IQAN programming language and its associated development environment.

• Strong understanding of PLC or embedded programming principles, with a willingness to learn IQAN if prior experience is limited to other platforms.

• Excellent problem-solving skills with a strong mechanical aptitude for understanding heavy machinery operation.

• Effective communication and reasoning skills for collaboration with cross-functional teams and field support.

• Ability to develop and execute comprehensive test plans and troubleshooting logic.

• Proficiency in documenting technical specifications, code, and test results.

• Willingness to travel to field locations for support and optimization. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with C, C++, or other similar logic-based programming languages.

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

• Understanding of robotics, automation principles, sensors, engines, and hydraulic control systems.

• Experience with HMI development and design principles.

• Familiarity with diagnostic systems development for industrial equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a degree or diploma in engineering or technology fields, combined with specific programming experience, positions this as a technical specialist role. The "willingness to learn IQAN" clause for PLC programmers indicates a strong demand for IQAN expertise, but also an openness to transferrable skills in industrial automation.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase examples of IQAN programs developed, highlighting complexity, efficiency, and successful implementation.

• Include case studies demonstrating how your programming solutions have improved machine performance, reduced downtime, or enhanced diagnostic capabilities.

• Provide evidence of system integration, such as how IQAN programs interact with sensors, actuators, and other machine components.

• Quantify the impact of your work, such as percentage improvements in machine efficiency, reduction in error rates, or successful troubleshooting scenarios. Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate the ability to create clear and comprehensive documentation for IQAN programs, including code comments, user manuals, and technical specifications.

• Showcase a structured approach to the software development lifecycle, from initial analysis and design to coding, testing, and deployment.

• Illustrate your methodology for developing and refining test plans, logic, and troubleshooting procedures for complex hydraulic and control systems.

• Provide examples of how you have contributed to the optimization and standardization of processes within a control systems or engineering team.

📝 Enhancement Note: For technical roles like this, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list skills but visually and descriptively demonstrate the application of those skills. For IQAN programmers, examples of control logic, diagnostic routines, and HMI interfaces would be highly valuable.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• $34 - $40 CAD per hour. This translates to an annual salary range of approximately $70,720 - $83,200 CAD, assuming a standard 40-hour work week. Benefits:

• Profit Sharing: Opportunity to share in the company's financial success.

• RRSP Matching Program: Company contributions to retirement savings plans.

• Skills Development and Training Reimbursement: Financial support for pre-approved industry-related learning opportunities.

• Company-Paid Healthcare Benefits: Comprehensive coverage including prescriptions, medications, massage therapy, physiotherapy, and vision care.

• Employee and Family Assistance Program (EAP): Free support programs for employees and their families.

• Active Social Committee: Participation in company-sponsored social events, including picnics, holiday parties, theatre, sporting events, and discounted attraction tickets.

Working Hours:

• Standard 40 hours per week, indicating a typical full-time schedule. Flexibility may be available depending on project needs and field support requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range aligns with mid-level technical roles in manufacturing and engineering in Ontario, Canada. The benefits package is robust, emphasizing employee well-being, professional development, and a strong work-life balance through social initiatives.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Heavy Equipment Manufacturing (Forestry, Construction, Material Handling). Tigercat is a leading manufacturer of forestry equipment, known for its ruggedness and reliability. MacDonald Steel is part of the Tigercat Industries group, likely contributing manufacturing or specialized component expertise.

Company Size: Tigercat Industries is a significant player in its niche, implying a medium to large-sized organization with established processes and a substantial workforce. This size offers stability and resources for innovation.

Founded: Tigercat was founded in 1992. This history suggests a company with proven expertise and a stable market presence, likely with a culture that values experience and long-term development.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of the "control systems technical team," suggesting a specialized group focused on the electronic and software aspects of machine operation.

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

• Reporting structure will likely be to a lead engineer or engineering manager within the control systems or electronics division. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Development: The emphasis on diagnostics, testing, and performance optimization suggests a data-driven approach to software development.

• Iterative Improvement: The process of analyzing, coding, simulating, testing, and field optimization points to an iterative development cycle.

• Collaborative Problem-Solving: The requirement for effective communication and reasoning skills highlights a collaborative approach to tackling complex engineering challenges.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Tigercat's reputation for robust forestry equipment suggests a culture that values durability, performance, and practical engineering solutions. The "family-oriented" and "tight-knit family" descriptions from the provided text indicate a company culture that prioritizes teamwork, employee engagement, and a supportive environment, which is a significant draw for many professionals.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Technology Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level specialist, focusing on the technical execution of IQAN programming and control system design. It requires demonstrated expertise in a specific, critical technology (IQAN) within the heavy machinery sector.

Reporting Structure: The role reports into the control systems technical team, likely under an engineering lead or manager. This provides a clear line of reporting and mentorship.

Operations Technology Impact: The IQAN Programmer directly influences the efficiency, reliability, and maintainability of Tigercat's machinery. By developing advanced diagnostics and optimizing control logic, this role contributes significantly to reducing operational costs for customers and enhancing product value.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in IQAN programming and advanced control systems, potentially becoming a subject matter expert within the company.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Transition into roles leading control systems projects or managing teams involved in software development for new machine platforms.

• Product Development: Move into broader product development roles, contributing to the overall design and innovation of Tigercat machinery, leveraging a strong understanding of its operational technology.

• Field Engineering/Support Management: Progress into roles that involve more extensive field interaction, customer support strategy, or management of field service technical teams.

• Training and Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior programmers and contribute to internal training programs for control systems technology.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for an IQAN programmer in a company like Tigercat is typically focused on technical depth or expanding into engineering management within the specialized area of industrial automation and controls. The emphasis on "Product Designer" in the title might also open doors to roles with more direct product strategy influence.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, indicating a traditional office and potentially workshop/lab environment where engineers work collaboratively. It's likely a mix of desk work for programming and analysis, and potential access to test equipment or prototype machines.

Office Location(s): Brant, Ontario, Canada. This location is within the industrial heartland of Ontario, suggesting access to a skilled workforce and established manufacturing infrastructure.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires close interaction with a control systems technical team, suggesting open communication and shared workspaces or meeting areas.

• Tools and Technology: Access to development workstations, specialized IQAN software, CAD tools, and potentially diagnostic equipment and test benches.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities to engage with other engineering disciplines (mechanical, hydraulic) to understand machine systems and integrate control solutions.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is indicated, typical for engineering roles. However, project deadlines or urgent field issues might require occasional overtime or adjusted schedules. The company's emphasis on social events suggests a team that values work-life balance when possible.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature is standard for hands-on engineering and development roles in manufacturing. The mention of social events suggests a positive workplace culture that balances demanding technical work with team cohesion.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and cover letter, with a focus on identifying relevant IQAN or PLC programming experience and educational background.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion covering programming concepts, troubleshooting methodologies, and specific experience with IQAN or similar systems. Expect questions about control logic design, diagnostics, and hydraulic systems.

• Portfolio Review/Case Study: Candidates will likely be asked to present examples from their portfolio, demonstrating their problem-solving approach, coding practices, and impact. A specific case study or technical challenge related to machine control or diagnostics may be presented.

• Behavioral/Team Fit Interview: Assessment of communication skills, teamwork ability, willingness to travel, and cultural alignment with Tigercat's family-oriented values.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior engineering management to discuss career aspirations and overall fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase IQAN Expertise: Prioritize examples of IQAN programs, detailing the problem addressed, the solution implemented, and the quantifiable results achieved (e.g., efficiency gains, reduced errors, improved diagnostics).

• Demonstrate Process: Clearly articulate your development process, including how you approach analysis, coding, testing, and documentation. Include examples of test plans or troubleshooting logic you've developed.

• Highlight Collaboration: If possible, include projects where you collaborated with other engineers or technicians, explaining your role and communication strategies.

• Quantify Impact: Use metrics and data to illustrate the success of your projects. For example, "Reduced hydraulic setup time by X%," or "Improved diagnostic accuracy, leading to Y% faster repair times."

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the intricacies of hydraulic controls, sensors, and embedded systems relevant to heavy machinery.

Challenge Preparation:

• IQAN Scenarios: Familiarize yourself with common challenges in programming heavy machinery controls, such as managing multiple inputs/outputs, implementing safety interlocks, or developing robust diagnostic routines.

• Problem-Solving Approach: Practice articulating your thought process when faced with a technical problem. Focus on breaking down complex issues into manageable parts.

• Communication Clarity: Prepare to explain technical concepts clearly and concisely, both verbally and potentially in written form, as you would to a mixed audience of technical and non-technical stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the specialized nature of IQAN programming, candidates with a strong, demonstrable portfolio showcasing relevant projects will have a significant advantage. The interview process will likely be rigorous, focusing on both technical proficiency and practical application.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Parker IQAN: The core programming environment and platform for developing machine control applications. Proficiency is essential.

• PLC/Embedded Programming Environments: If prior experience is in other systems, familiarity with environments for C, C++, or other logic-based programming languages will be considered.

• Simulation Software: Potentially used for testing IQAN programs or control logic before deployment.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Diagnostic Tools: Software and hardware used to interface with machines, read sensor data, and analyze system performance for troubleshooting.

• Data Logging: Capabilities within IQAN or associated systems to log operational data for performance analysis and diagnostics.

• HMI Development Tools: Software used to create and manage the graphical user interfaces for machine operators.

CRM & Automation:

• CAD Software: AutoCAD and SolidWorks are mentioned for design programs, indicating their use in understanding machine schematics and potentially integrating control system layouts.

• Version Control Systems (Implied): For software development, systems like Git are standard for managing code changes and team collaboration, though not explicitly mentioned.

• Project Management Tools (Implied): Tools like Jira or similar might be used for task tracking and workflow management within the engineering team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on IQAN is paramount. While other programming languages and CAD tools are beneficial, the ability to effectively use the IQAN platform is the primary technical requirement. Understanding how IQAN integrates with hardware components like sensors and hydraulics is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Technology Values:

• Innovation and Efficiency: A drive to develop smart control solutions that optimize machine performance and reduce operational costs for end-users.

• Reliability and Durability: A commitment to building robust systems that can withstand the harsh conditions of the forestry industry.

• Teamwork and Collaboration: Emphasis on working together to solve complex problems and support each other, both internally and in the field.

• Continuous Improvement: A culture that encourages learning, adapting to new technologies, and refining processes for better outcomes.

• Customer Focus: Understanding that the ultimate goal is to provide reliable and efficient equipment for customers, which is achieved through well-designed control systems.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Active collaboration with mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical engineers to ensure seamless integration of control systems with hardware.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture where team members share expertise, best practices, and lessons learned from field experiences.

• Feedback Exchange: Openness to constructive feedback on code, designs, and processes to foster continuous improvement.

• Problem-Solving Focus: A collective effort to tackle technical challenges, leveraging diverse skill sets to find effective solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's description emphasizes a "tight-knit family" and "teamwork." For an operations technology role, this translates to a collaborative engineering environment where engineers are expected to actively contribute to team goals and support colleagues.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Heavy Machinery: Integrating sophisticated control logic into rugged, often remote-operating equipment presents unique engineering challenges.

• Harsh Operating Environments: Ensuring the reliability and durability of electronic control systems in demanding conditions (dust, vibration, temperature extremes) requires careful design and testing.

• Field Support Demands: Traveling to optimize performance and troubleshoot issues may involve adapting to diverse field conditions and time-sensitive situations.

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with advancements in automation, sensor technology, and programming techniques within the industrial controls space.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepening IQAN Expertise: Becoming a go-to expert for IQAN programming within the company and potentially the industry.

• Advanced Control Systems: Gaining exposure to and expertise in areas like adaptive control, predictive maintenance algorithms, and advanced sensor integration.

• Industry Certifications: Pursuing relevant certifications in automation, embedded systems, or specific programming languages.

• Mentorship and Leadership: Opportunities to mentor junior engineers and potentially move into leadership roles within the control systems team.

• Exposure to New Product Development: Contributing to the design and implementation of controls for next-generation forestry equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for growth in a specialized and in-demand field of industrial automation. The challenges are typical for heavy equipment engineering but also provide fertile ground for skill development and career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• IQAN Design Philosophy: "Describe your approach to designing an IQAN program for a complex hydraulic system. What are the key considerations for efficiency, safety, and diagnostics?" (Prepare to discuss modular design, state machines, error handling, and sensor feedback loops).

• Troubleshooting Scenarios: "Imagine a machine is experiencing intermittent hydraulic pressure drops. How would you use IQAN diagnostics and your programming knowledge to identify the root cause?" (Focus on systematic troubleshooting, data logging, and logical deduction).

• Collaboration & Field Support: "How do you ensure effective communication with field technicians and other engineers when working on a project that requires both programming and on-site adjustments?" (Highlight your communication style, documentation practices, and proactive approach to support).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Tigercat's Innovation: "What excites you about Tigercat's approach to forestry equipment, and how do you see your role contributing to that innovation?" (Research Tigercat's product lines and market position; connect your technical skills to their goals).

• Team Dynamics: "Describe a time you had to work with a difficult team member or resolve a conflict within a project. How did you handle it?" (Use the STAR method and focus on collaborative resolution).

• Impact Measurement: "How do you measure the success of your programming work? What metrics do you prioritize?" (Discuss efficiency, reliability, uptime, reduced error rates, and customer satisfaction).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structured Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your solution (including code snippets or logic diagrams if appropriate), the tools used, and the quantifiable results.

• Demonstrate IQAN Proficiency: Focus on projects specifically using IQAN. If you have PLC experience, explain how those skills transfer and highlight any relevant learning initiatives towards IQAN.

• Visual Aids: Use diagrams, flowcharts, or screenshots of HMI interfaces to illustrate your work.

• Storytelling: Frame your projects as narratives that showcase your problem-solving skills and the value you bring. Explain why a particular approach was taken.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present key highlights within a limited timeframe and dive deeper into details as requested.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily focus on showcasing practical IQAN experience and a systematic approach to software development and problem-solving in an industrial engineering context. The ability to articulate the impact of your work through quantifiable results is crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations technology position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Dayforce careers portal.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight specific experience with IQAN programming, PLC/embedded systems, hydraulic controls, and relevant industries (forestry, construction, agriculture). Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a portfolio that includes specific examples of IQAN programs, code snippets, system diagrams, and case studies demonstrating your problem-solving abilities and the impact of your work. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Practice Technical Explanations: Prepare to discuss your programming methodology, troubleshooting techniques, and experience with control systems in detail. Be ready to articulate how your skills align with Tigercat's needs.

• Research Tigercat: Understand Tigercat's product lines, market position, and company culture. Familiarize yourself with their commitment to innovation and reliability in the heavy equipment sector.

⚠️ 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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