IQAN Programmer, Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: IQAN Programmer, Product Designer Company: Tigercat | MacDonald Steel Location: Brantford, Ontario, Canada Job Type: Full-Time Category: Engineering & Product Development (with a strong focus on embedded systems and control programming) Date Posted: October 30, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Develop and maintain user interface control programming for specialized machinery, including chippers, grinders, and carbonizers, within the forestry industry.
• Design and implement advanced diagnostics systems to enhance machine management and minimize operational downtime.
• Collaborate within a control systems technical team to optimize machine performance and contribute to new product development.
• Focus on a complete electronic approach for controlling and monitoring heavy-duty equipment designed for challenging environments.
• Leverage strong problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude to ensure efficient and reliable machine operation.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title includes "Product Designer," the core responsibilities and required skills heavily lean towards embedded systems programming and control logic development for industrial machinery. The "Product Designer" aspect likely refers to the design of the user interface and control system's functionality rather than aesthetic product design. The role requires a blend of software engineering and an understanding of mechanical and hydraulic systems common in heavy equipment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Analyze, code, simulate, test, maintain, and document user interface programs for industrial machinery.
• Develop custom software solutions for efficient machine management and advanced diagnostics to reduce downtime.
• Travel to field locations to optimize equipment performance and address operational concerns, providing essential technical support.
• Actively participate in the control systems technical team, contributing to design reviews and problem-solving sessions.
• Collaborate on new machine development projects to optimize controllability and integrate advanced electronic systems.
• Update Human-Machine Interface (HMI) displays and logic in accordance with established control systems team standards.
• Develop comprehensive test plans and logic to improve troubleshooting efficiency and machine repeatability.
• Create and refine logic for hydraulic setup and tuning processes to ensure consistent and optimal machine performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a hands-on approach, including field support and direct contribution to new product development. The role requires not just programming but also a deep understanding of how the software impacts the physical operation of heavy machinery, particularly hydraulic 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:

• 2-5 years of experience in software development, with a strong preference for experience with Parker IQAN, C, C++, or similar PLC/logic-based programming languages.
• Previous user interface development experience in industries similar to construction, agriculture, mining, or material handling equipment is highly desirable.
• Experience with PLC or embedded programming will be considered, provided there is a strong willingness and aptitude to learn IQAN.

Required Skills:

• IQAN Programming: Proficiency or demonstrated ability to quickly learn and master Parker IQAN software for embedded control.
• Software Development: Solid foundation in programming principles, with experience in C, C++, or other logic-based languages relevant to industrial automation.
• User Interface (UI) Design: Ability to design intuitive and functional user interfaces for complex machinery control.
• Problem Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to diagnose and resolve complex technical issues in software and hardware interactions.
• Mechanical Aptitude: A good understanding of mechanical systems, particularly as they relate to heavy machinery and their operation (e.g., hydraulics, engines).
• Effective Communication: Ability to articulate technical information clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, including field teams and internal engineering departments.
• Team Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively as part of a technical team, contributing to shared goals and supporting colleagues.

Preferred Skills:

• HMI Updating: Experience in updating and standardizing Human-Machine Interface elements.
• Test Plan Development: Skill in creating structured test plans and logic for software validation and troubleshooting.
• Hydraulic Systems: Understanding of hydraulic controls and their integration with electronic systems.
• Automation & Robotics: Familiarity with robotics, automation principles, sensors, engines, and hydraulic control systems.
• CAD Software Proficiency: Experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software such as AutoCAD and SolidWorks.
• Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency in standard office productivity software.
• Field Support Experience: Willingness and ability to provide technical support to field teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on IQAN programming, combined with a need for mechanical aptitude and field support, suggests a role that bridges software development with practical, real-world application in rugged industrial environments. Candidates with experience in similar heavy equipment sectors will have a distinct advantage.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• IQAN Project Examples: Showcase specific projects where IQAN software was used for machine control, detailing the problem solved, the implemented solution, and the resulting improvements in efficiency or functionality.
• UI/HMI Design Case Studies: Present examples of user interface designs you have developed, highlighting the thought process behind the design, user experience considerations, and how it facilitated machine operation or diagnostics.
• Diagnostic System Implementation: Include documentation or case studies of diagnostic systems you have developed, demonstrating how they reduced downtime, improved troubleshooting, or provided valuable operational insights.
• Process Optimization Evidence: Provide examples of how your programming or design work has led to measurable improvements in machine performance, repeatability, or setup/tuning processes.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in designing and documenting control system workflows, outlining how you analyze existing processes and implement improvements through software.
• Implementation & Automation: Showcase how you have implemented new software features or automated processes within control systems, detailing the steps taken from concept to deployment.
• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Include examples of how you measure the performance of your implemented solutions, using metrics to demonstrate effectiveness and identify areas for further optimization.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio should clearly illustrate the candidate's ability to translate complex technical requirements into functional, efficient, and user-friendly control software for heavy machinery. Emphasis should be placed on practical application, problem-solving, and demonstrable impact on machine performance and reliability.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The estimated annual salary range for an IQAN Programmer, Product Designer with 2-5 years of experience in Brantford, Ontario, Canada, is CAD $65,000 - $90,000. This range is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in the manufacturing and engineering sectors in Ontario, considering the specialized nature of IQAN programming and the demand for skilled control systems engineers.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage
• Disability Insurance (Short-Term and Long-Term)
• Pension Plan or Retirement Savings Plan contributions
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Personal Days, Sick Leave)
• Opportunities for Professional Development and Training (e.g., IQAN certifications, advanced programming courses)
• Extended Health Benefits
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Potential for overtime pay and performance-based bonuses

Working Hours:

• Standard shift: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday.
• Totaling 40 hours per week.
• Occasional flexibility may be required to support field operations or critical project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical compensation for mid-level engineering roles in Brantford, ON, with specialized programming skills. Actual compensation will depend on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and the company's compensation structure. The benefits package is typical for a manufacturing company of this size in Canada.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Heavy Equipment Manufacturing (Forestry, Wood Processing) Company Size: Tigercat is a significant manufacturer, and MacDonald Steel is part of this larger entity, suggesting a company with substantial operational capacity and a strong presence in its niche markets. The combined entity likely employs several hundred to a few thousand individuals. Founded: Tigercat was founded in 1992, indicating a company with established expertise and a long-standing reputation in the forestry equipment sector. MacDonald Steel, as a division or partner, would contribute to this legacy.

Team Structure:

• Control Systems Technical Team: This role is part of a specialized team focused on the electronic and software aspects of machinery control.
• Reporting Structure: Likely reports to a Control Systems Engineering Manager or Lead Engineer.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Expect close collaboration with mechanical engineers, hydraulic specialists, product development teams, manufacturing personnel, and potentially field service technicians.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Development: Emphasis on analyzing machine performance data to inform software development and optimization.
• Iterative Design & Testing: A process involving coding, simulation, rigorous testing (both in-house and in the field), and iterative refinement of control logic and user interfaces.
• Standardization & Best Practices: Adherence to established coding standards and best practices within the control systems team to ensure consistency, maintainability, and reliability of software across different machines.

Company Website: https://www.tigercat.com/ (MacDonald Steel may have a separate or integrated presence)

📝 Enhancement Note: Tigercat is known for robust, high-performance forestry equipment designed for demanding environments. This suggests a company culture that values durability, reliability, and innovation in heavy machinery. The operations and engineering teams likely focus on practical, field-tested solutions.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level engineering position, requiring a solid foundation in programming and control systems, with the potential for growth into more senior or specialized roles. Reporting Structure: Reports to a technical lead or manager within the control systems engineering department, with significant interaction across engineering disciplines and potentially with field service. Operations Impact: The IQAN Programmer's work directly impacts the efficiency, reliability, and operational uptime of Tigercat's specialized machinery. Effective control programming and diagnostics can lead to significant cost savings for customers through reduced downtime and optimized performance, directly contributing to Tigercat's reputation and market competitiveness.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior IQAN Programmer/Engineer: Develop deeper expertise in IQAN and control systems, taking on more complex projects and mentoring junior engineers.
• Control Systems Lead: Transition into a leadership role, managing a team of programmers and engineers, and overseeing the control system development roadmap.
• Specialization: Focus on specific areas like advanced diagnostics, hydraulic control optimization, or integration of new sensor technologies.
• Product Development: Move into broader product development roles, contributing to the overall design and functionality of new machinery.
• Field Engineering/Support: Leverage field experience to become a technical expert for customer support and on-site problem resolution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for an IQAN programmer within a heavy equipment manufacturer like Tigercat offers a clear progression from a hands-on technical role to leadership or specialized engineering functions, driven by increasing expertise and project complexity.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an on-site role within an engineering and manufacturing facility. The work environment will likely involve a blend of office-based software development and shop floor/testing environment interaction. Office Location(s): 451 Elgin Street, Brantford, ON. This location is within a manufacturing hub, suggesting access to resources and a strong industrial community.

Workspace Context:

• Office Setup: Likely a dedicated workspace with standard office equipment, access to development workstations, and potentially a shared lab or testing area for control systems.
• Tools & Technology: Access to necessary programming software (IQAN, IDEs), simulation tools, diagnostic equipment, and potentially CAD software.
• Team Interaction: Frequent collaboration with other engineers and technical staff in a dynamic manufacturing setting. Opportunities for hands-on work with machinery prototypes or test units.

Work Schedule:

• Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
• The role may require occasional flexibility for urgent field support or to meet project deadlines, but the core schedule is standard.

📝 Enhancement Note: This is a hands-on, on-site role that requires direct engagement with the machinery and the engineering teams. The environment is expected to be fast-paced and practical, typical of heavy equipment manufacturing.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and cover letter, focusing on relevant programming experience (IQAN, C/C++, PLC) and industry background.
• Technical Assessment: A practical test or coding challenge, potentially involving IQAN simulation or a logic-based programming scenario to assess core skills. This may also include a review of past projects.
• Interview with Hiring Team: Discussion with the hiring manager and key technical team members to assess technical depth, problem-solving approach, communication skills, and cultural fit. Expect questions on past projects, troubleshooting methodologies, and understanding of mechanical/hydraulic systems.
• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to walk through selected projects from your portfolio, demonstrating your design process, technical solutions, and the impact of your work. Be prepared to discuss challenges faced and how they were overcome.
• Final Interview: May involve further discussion with senior engineering leadership or HR.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on IQAN: Prioritize showcasing projects where you utilized IQAN or similar embedded control programming languages.
• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., X% reduction in downtime, Y% improvement in efficiency, Z hours saved in setup).
• Showcase UI/HMI Design: Include visual examples of interfaces you've designed, explaining the rationale behind button placement, data display, and user flow.
• Explain Diagnostic Logic: Detail how your diagnostic systems work, what parameters they monitor, and how they aid in troubleshooting.
• Be Ready to Discuss: Prepare to answer detailed technical questions about your code, design choices, and the challenges you encountered.

Challenge Preparation:

• Logic Puzzles: Brush up on logical reasoning and problem-solving skills, as these are fundamental to programming.
• Embedded Systems Concepts: Review core concepts related to microcontrollers, sensors, actuators, and real-time operating systems.
• Hydraulic Fundamentals: Familiarize yourself with basic hydraulic principles and how they are controlled electronically.
• IQAN Specifics: If possible, gain some familiarity with the IQAN design environment and its capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be rigorous, with a strong emphasis on practical technical skills and problem-solving abilities. A well-curated portfolio that demonstrates hands-on experience with control systems and their real-world application is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Parker IQAN: The core programming environment for developing control software. Proficiency is highly desired; strong aptitude to learn is considered.
• C/C++: For embedded programming and potentially related system development.
• PLC Programming Languages: Experience with ladder logic, structured text, etc., is transferable.
• Integrated Development Environments (IDEs): Such as Visual Studio, Eclipse, or specific IDEs for embedded development.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Diagnostic Software: Tools associated with IQAN or other embedded systems for monitoring parameters, logging data, and troubleshooting.
• Data Analysis Tools: Potentially for analyzing performance logs from field testing (e.g., Excel, Python with libraries like Pandas).

CRM & Automation:

• Version Control Systems: Git (e.g., GitHub, GitLab, Bitbucket) for managing code revisions and team collaboration.
• Simulation Software: Tools for testing and validating control logic before deployment on hardware.
• Project Management Software: (e.g., Jira, Asana) for tracking tasks, bugs, and project progress.

📝 Enhancement Note: Expertise in Parker IQAN is a significant asset. Familiarity with C/C++ and PLC programming demonstrates a transferable skill set. Proficiency in version control systems like Git is standard for collaborative software development.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Reliability & Durability: A core value in heavy equipment manufacturing, emphasizing robust design and dependable performance in harsh conditions.
• Innovation: Continuous improvement and the development of advanced control systems to enhance machine capabilities and efficiency.
• Customer Focus: Understanding the demanding needs of customers in the forestry industry and developing solutions that directly address their operational challenges.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: A strong emphasis on working together across disciplines to achieve complex engineering goals.
• Problem-Solving: A culture that embraces challenges and actively seeks effective solutions through analytical and practical approaches.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Engineers are expected to work closely with teams from mechanical design, hydraulics, manufacturing, and field service.
• Knowledge Sharing: An environment where technical expertise is shared to foster collective learning and problem-solving.
• Process Improvement Mindset: Encouragement to identify inefficiencies and propose solutions through software and system enhancements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture likely reflects the demanding nature of the industry, valuing practical solutions, technical excellence, and a collaborative spirit to overcome engineering challenges.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex System Integration: Integrating sophisticated electronic controls with robust mechanical and hydraulic systems in a demanding environment.
• Field Troubleshooting: Diagnosing and resolving complex issues remotely or in challenging field conditions, requiring adaptability and strong problem-solving skills.
• Rapid Technological Evolution: Staying current with advancements in embedded systems, control algorithms, and IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) technologies.
• Balancing Performance and Cost: Developing efficient and reliable control systems within budget and manufacturing constraints.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• IQAN Certification Programs: Opportunities to gain official certifications in Parker IQAN software.
• Advanced Control Systems Training: Access to courses and workshops on topics like advanced hydraulics, sensor integration, and real-time operating systems.
• Industry Conferences: Potential to attend relevant trade shows and conferences focused on automation, heavy equipment, or embedded systems.
• Mentorship: Learning from experienced engineers within the control systems team and broader engineering department.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities to deepen expertise in specialized industrial control systems. The challenges are inherent to developing cutting-edge technology for demanding applications, providing a rich learning environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would approach diagnosing a specific machine malfunction (e.g., "A chipper is intermittently losing hydraulic power. How would you begin to troubleshoot this using IQAN?"). Focus on your systematic approach.
• Design Philosophy: Be ready to explain your approach to designing user interfaces for heavy machinery, emphasizing usability, safety, and clarity.
• Collaboration Experience: Share examples of successful cross-functional collaboration and how you navigated technical disagreements or communication barriers.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Industry Knowledge: Research Tigercat's product lines and understand the operational context of their forestry equipment.
• Values Alignment: Consider how your personal work ethic aligns with values like reliability, innovation, and customer focus.
• Team Dynamics: Think about how you contribute to a technical team and support colleagues, especially during challenging projects.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• "STAR" Method: Structure your case studies using Situation, Task, Action, Result to clearly articulate your contributions.
• Visual Aids: Use screenshots of interfaces, code snippets (if appropriate and not proprietary), and diagrams to illustrate your points.
• Focus on Impact: Clearly state the tangible benefits and outcomes of your work. For example, "My diagnostic logic reduced average troubleshooting time by 30%."
• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about the technical intricacies of your projects, design decisions, and any challenges encountered.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview will assess not only your technical programming skills but also your ability to apply them within the context of heavy machinery, your problem-solving methodology, and your collaborative spirit. A strong portfolio that demonstrates practical application and impact is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this IQAN Programmer, Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided Dayforce link: https://jobs.dayforcehcm.com/en-US/tcii/TCi/jobs/6366
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight specific experience with IQAN, C/C++, PLC programming, embedded systems, and user interface design. Quantify achievements wherever possible.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your skills in IQAN programming, UI/HMI design, and diagnostic system development. Be ready to discuss the technical details, challenges, and outcomes.
• Research the Company: Understand Tigercat's product offerings and its position in the heavy equipment market. Consider how your skills can contribute to their specific needs in forestry machinery.
• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for technical questions related to programming, troubleshooting, and embedded systems, as well as behavioral questions about teamwork and problem-solving.

⚠️ 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.