Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer

Company: Tigercat | MacDonald Steel

Location: Brant, Ontario, Canada

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Product Design / Mechanical Engineering

Date Posted: 2026-08-21

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and develop mechanical engineering solutions for heavy-duty forestry equipment, focusing on enhancing existing products and driving new innovations.

• Collaborate closely with established engineering and cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of designs into manufacturing and production processes.

• Conduct rigorous testing and analysis, including stress analysis, fatigue, and vibration testing, to validate and optimize product performance, strength, and reliability.

• Create comprehensive technical documentation, including detailed design specifications and bills of materials, to support manufacturing and quality control.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Product Designer," the description clearly indicates a strong emphasis on mechanical engineering principles and heavy machinery design, particularly for the forestry industry. The role requires a blend of design creativity and robust mechanical engineering expertise.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop detailed mechanical engineering designs, drawings, and specifications for rugged terrain forestry equipment, meeting stringent performance and safety standards.

• Perform critical calculations and develop prototypes for mechanical components, ensuring optimal performance, durability, and manufacturability.

• Analyze and select appropriate materials, considering mechanical properties, cost-effectiveness, and suitability for challenging operating environments.

• Engage actively with designers, engineers, manufacturing personnel, and quality control teams to facilitate the smooth transition of designs from concept to production.

• Execute comprehensive validation tests such as stress analysis, fatigue testing, and vibration analysis to confirm design integrity and enhance operational characteristics.

• Generate precise technical documentation, including detailed design specifications, engineering drawings, and accurate bills of materials (BOMs).

• Proactively identify opportunities for design optimization, cost reduction initiatives, and improvements in overall operational efficiency.

• Provide hands-on troubleshooting support during fabrication and assembly processes as needed.

• Offer field support for equipment troubleshooting and implement necessary design improvements based on real-world operational feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on approach, requiring the designer to be involved from conceptualization through to field support, emphasizing problem-solving and practical application of engineering principles in a demanding industry.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or Mechatronics is preferred.

Experience: Previous design experience within industries similar to forestry, such as mobile heavy-duty equipment used in construction, transportation, mining, oil and gas, material handling, landscaping, land clearing, and farming is an asset.

Required Skills:

• Solid understanding of engineering principles, material properties, manufacturing processes, and computer-aided design (CAD) software.

• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving capabilities.

• Effective communication and reasoning skills for cross-functional team collaboration.

• Adaptability to a dynamic work environment, managing competing demands and unexpected changes.

• Ability to create visually appealing and user-friendly products, balancing aesthetics with practicality.

• Commitment to continuous learning and staying updated on emerging technologies.

• Proficiency in machine design fundamentals, mechanics, materials science, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics.

• Understanding of structural Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and dynamic simulation of machine components. Preferred Skills:

• Design experience in welded steel fabrications for manual and robotic welding.

• Experience with hydraulic cylinders, components, control valves, plumbing, and advanced hydraulic power and electronic control systems.

• Expertise in diesel engine installations and vehicle drive train transmission/axle component selection.

• Experience designing attachments for heavy equipment, including load distribution, stress analysis, and material selection considerations.

• Software proficiency: SolidWorks for 3D modeling and Simulation for FEA.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, with a strong preference for candidates familiar with heavy machinery, specific design areas like hydraulics and powertrains, and industry-standard CAD/FEA software.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase detailed mechanical design projects, including CAD models, engineering drawings, and material specifications.

• Present case studies demonstrating problem-solving skills and the application of engineering principles to overcome design challenges.

• Include examples of conducted analyses, such as stress, fatigue, or vibration simulations, with explanations of methodologies and results.

• Highlight projects involving collaboration with manufacturing or quality control teams, illustrating integration and production readiness.

• Demonstrate experience with technical documentation, including BOMs and design specifications. Process Documentation:

• Illustrate the design process from concept generation to final product, detailing stages of design, analysis, prototyping, and validation.

• Provide examples of how design optimization and cost reduction opportunities were identified and implemented.

• Document troubleshooting experiences and field support contributions, showcasing problem resolution skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial for this role, as it will serve as tangible proof of the candidate's design capabilities, analytical skills, and understanding of the product development lifecycle within a heavy manufacturing context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $34 - $40 CAD per hour. Based on industry benchmarks for Product Designers/Mechanical Engineers with 2-5 years of experience in the Brant, Ontario region, this hourly rate is competitive for specialized roles in heavy manufacturing. The range reflects potential variations based on specific experience, skill set, and the employer's compensation philosophy.

Benefits:

• Competitive Wages

• Profit Sharing program celebrating financial success

• RRSP Matching Program for retirement planning

• Skills Development and Training Reimbursement for industry-related learning

• Company-Paid Healthcare Benefits, including prescriptions, massages, physiotherapy, and vision coverage

• Employee and Family Assistance Program (EAP) offering various free programs

• Active Social Committee organizing events like annual family picnics, Christmas parties, and discounted attractions

Working Hours: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm, Monday – Friday (40 hours per week).

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided based on the input data. The benefits package is comprehensive, with a strong emphasis on employee well-being, financial security, and community engagement, aligning with a family-oriented company culture.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Heavy Machinery Manufacturing, specifically focused on equipment for the forestry industry. This sector demands robust, reliable, and high-performance machinery designed for challenging environments.

Company Size: Tigercat is a significant player in its niche, suggesting a well-established organization with dedicated teams and processes. The "MacDonald Steel" affiliation implies potential integration or collaboration within a larger industrial group.

Founded: Tigercat was founded with a mission to build machines for the forestry sector, indicating a legacy of specialized engineering and a deep understanding of customer needs in this demanding field.

Team Structure:

• The Product Designer will likely be part of a larger engineering department, potentially with specialized sub-teams focusing on different aspects of machine design (e.g., hydraulics, powertrain, fabrication).

• Collaboration is expected with manufacturing, quality control, and potentially field service teams, requiring strong interpersonal and communication skills.

• The reporting structure would typically involve a Lead Engineer or Engineering Manager overseeing design and development activities. Methodology:

• Emphasis on data-driven design validation through rigorous testing (stress analysis, FEA, etc.).

• Application of sound engineering principles for machine design, material selection, and system integration.

• Iterative design process involving prototyping, testing, and optimization to meet performance and reliability targets.

• Close integration with manufacturing to ensure designs are feasible and cost-effective to produce.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is described as "family-oriented" and emphasizes teamwork, innovation, and a safe, collaborative environment. This suggests a company that values its employees and fosters a strong sense of community, which can be appealing to operations professionals seeking stability and a positive workplace.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-level (2-5 years of experience), suitable for professionals who have moved beyond entry-level design tasks and are capable of independently managing design projects and contributing significantly to product development.

Reporting Structure: The Product Designer will report to a senior engineering leader, such as an Engineering Manager or Lead Design Engineer, who will provide guidance, mentorship, and project oversight.

Operations Impact: The Product Designer's work directly influences the performance, reliability, and market competitiveness of Tigercat's forestry equipment. Successful designs lead to improved customer satisfaction, operational efficiency for end-users, and ultimately, revenue generation and market share growth for the company.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like advanced hydraulics, powertrain systems, or structural analysis for heavy machinery.

• Leadership: Progress to a Senior Product Designer or Lead Engineer role, taking on greater design responsibility and mentoring junior team members.

• Cross-functional Development: Gain exposure to manufacturing processes, quality assurance, and field operations, broadening understanding of the product lifecycle.

• Formal Training: Utilize the company's skills development and training reimbursement for advanced certifications or specialized courses in relevant engineering fields.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities suggest a clear path for career advancement within Tigercat's engineering department, allowing professionals to develop specialized skills and take on increasing levels of responsibility.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at a physical manufacturing facility, indicating an on-site work environment. This allows for direct interaction with engineering teams, manufacturing floors, and potentially R&D labs.

Office Location(s): 141 Consolidated Drive, Paris, ON. This location is likely within a manufacturing hub, offering access to industrial infrastructure and resources.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative workspace is expected, fostering interaction with fellow engineers, designers, and potentially manufacturing personnel.

• Access to essential design tools, including CAD software (SolidWorks) and FEA simulation tools, will be provided.

• Opportunities for hands-on involvement with prototypes and equipment on the manufacturing floor are probable, offering a dynamic work setting.

Work Schedule: A dedicated day shift from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday, provides a structured work week with predictable hours. This schedule allows for a good work-life balance while ensuring consistent availability for team collaboration and project continuity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site work environment is crucial for a role that involves physical product design and potential interaction with manufacturing. The structured schedule offers stability and predictability.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and cover letter to assess qualifications and alignment with the role's requirements.

• Technical Interview: Likely involves in-depth discussions about your mechanical engineering knowledge, design experience, and problem-solving approaches, potentially including a review of your portfolio.

• Portfolio Presentation: You will likely be asked to present specific projects from your portfolio, detailing your design process, challenges encountered, solutions implemented, and the impact of your work. Be prepared to discuss your role in team projects.

• Meet the Team: Interviews with potential colleagues and engineering managers to assess technical fit, communication skills, and cultural alignment.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss your long-term career aspirations and overall fit with the company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Relevant Projects: Prioritize projects that demonstrate your experience with heavy machinery, CAD/FEA, and complex mechanical systems.

• Detail Your Process: For each project, clearly outline the problem statement, your design approach, the tools and methodologies used, challenges overcome, and the final outcomes. Quantify results whenever possible.

• Highlight Collaboration: If applicable, describe your role in team projects and how you collaborated with others.

• Explain Your Reasoning: Be prepared to articulate the rationale behind your design choices, material selections, and analytical methods.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Use case studies to illustrate how you tackled complex technical issues and arrived at effective solutions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for technical questions related to machine design, stress analysis, fluid dynamics, and material science.

• Practice explaining your design process and decision-making for a hypothetical product design challenge.

• Prepare to discuss your experience with SolidWorks and FEA simulations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus heavily on technical expertise and practical application. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly articulates your design process, problem-solving abilities, and collaborative experience will be essential for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: SolidWorks (mandatory). Proficiency in creating detailed 3D models, assemblies, and 2D drawings.

• FEA Software: Simulation (mandatory for FEA). Experience with stress analysis, fatigue, and vibration analysis.

• General Design Tools: Familiarity with engineering principles, material science databases, and manufacturing process guides.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly mentioned as primary tools, expect to use reporting features within CAD/FEA software for analysis results.

• Data analysis skills may be required to interpret test results and performance metrics. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to this design role, but understanding how designs translate into production orders might involve ERP system interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in SolidWorks and Simulation (FEA) is a non-negotiable requirement for this role, underscoring the technical demands of product design in this specialized field.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: A drive to continuously improve existing products and develop new, cutting-edge solutions for the forestry industry.

• Quality & Reliability: A commitment to designing robust, durable equipment that performs exceptionally in demanding conditions.

• Teamwork: Strong emphasis on collaboration across engineering, manufacturing, and other departments to achieve common goals.

• Problem-Solving: A culture that encourages creative solutions to complex technical challenges.

• Safety: Prioritizing safety in design to protect operators and ensure compliance with industry standards.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Close working relationships with manufacturing, quality control, and potentially field service teams to ensure designs are production-ready and field-tested.

• Data-Driven Discussions: Decisions and design reviews are likely supported by technical data, simulation results, and performance metrics.

• Feedback Loops: Openness to feedback from colleagues and stakeholders to refine designs and improve product performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to value practical engineering, collaborative problem-solving, and a commitment to producing high-quality, reliable machinery. Candidates who are team-oriented and possess a strong technical foundation will likely thrive.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Demanding Industry Standards: Designing equipment that meets the rigorous performance, durability, and safety requirements of the forestry sector.

• Complex System Integration: Ensuring seamless integration of various mechanical, hydraulic, and potentially electronic systems within heavy machinery.

• Balancing Performance and Cost: Optimizing designs for peak performance while remaining cost-effective for manufacturing and market competitiveness.

• Adapting to Evolving Technology: Keeping pace with advancements in materials, manufacturing techniques, and control systems relevant to heavy equipment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Techniques: Opportunities to learn and apply advanced FEA, simulation, and material science principles.

• Industry-Specific Knowledge: Deepen understanding of forestry operations, equipment application, and market demands.

• Mentorship: Learning from experienced engineers and design leaders within the organization.

• Training Reimbursement: Utilizing the company's program for specialized courses or certifications in mechanical engineering or related fields.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle significant engineering challenges in a specialized industry, fostering deep technical expertise and providing a clear path for professional growth through hands-on experience and continuous learning.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex mechanical design challenge you faced and how you approached solving it. What was the outcome?" (Focus on your process, problem-solving, and results.)

• "How do you ensure your designs are manufacturable and cost-effective while meeting performance requirements?" (Highlight your understanding of the design-to-production lifecycle.)

• "Walk us through a project where you utilized SolidWorks and FEA. What were the key findings and how did they influence your design?" (Be ready to discuss specific technical details and your interpretation of results.)

• "How do you approach material selection for components subjected to high stress and harsh environments?" (Demonstrate knowledge of material properties and application suitability.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about designing equipment for the forestry industry?" (Show genuine interest in the company's niche.)

• "How do you handle constructive criticism or disagreements during design reviews?" (Emphasize your collaborative and open-minded approach.)

• "Describe a time you had to adapt to a significant change in project scope or requirements." (Illustrate your adaptability.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or complexity. Start with your most impactful and relevant work.

• Storytelling: For each project, tell a clear story: the problem, your solution, the challenges, the results, and your specific contribution.

• Visuals: Use high-quality CAD models, drawings, simulation results, and photos of prototypes or finished products.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical details, calculations, and software used in your projects.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., improved efficiency by X%, reduced weight by Y%, increased lifespan by Z%).

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to articulate your technical expertise with specific examples, demonstrate your understanding of the product development lifecycle in a manufacturing context, and showcase your collaborative spirit and adaptability.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

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

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight experience in mechanical design, CAD (SolidWorks), FEA (Simulation), and heavy machinery, especially within industries like forestry, construction, or mining.

• Resume Optimization: Clearly articulate your responsibilities and achievements using keywords from the job description, such as "mechanical design," "prototyping," "stress analysis," "SolidWorks," and "FEA."

• Interview Preparation: Practice explaining your design process for key projects, focusing on problem-solving, technical execution, and collaborative contributions. Be ready to discuss your experience with specific systems like hydraulics and powertrains.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Tigercat's product lines, company mission, and values to demonstrate genuine interest and alignment with their culture and industry focus.

⚠️ 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.