Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer

Company: Tigercat | MacDonald Steel

Location: Brantford, Paris, and Cambridge, ON, Canada

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Product Design / Mechanical Engineering

Date Posted: May 15, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive innovation in mechanical engineering design for heavy-duty forestry equipment, focusing on enhancing existing products and developing new solutions.

• Collaborate closely with engineering and manufacturing teams to translate design concepts into robust, functional machinery.

• Apply a strong understanding of engineering principles, material properties, and manufacturing processes to create detailed designs and specifications.

• Conduct rigorous testing and analysis to validate design performance, ensuring compliance with safety and industry standards.

• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities for design optimization, cost reduction, and efficiency gains.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is firmly rooted in mechanical engineering and product development within the heavy machinery sector. The focus on "designing and developing mechanical engineering designs, drawings, and specifications" points to a hands-on role requiring CAD proficiency and a deep understanding of manufacturing processes. The mention of various systems (fluid power, engine, electrical, drive train) indicates a systems-level design approach.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop detailed mechanical designs, drawings, and specifications for complex equipment used in rugged terrain, ensuring adherence to performance, safety, and industry standards.

• Perform critical engineering calculations and create prototypes to validate design concepts and functionality.

• Analyze and select appropriate materials based on mechanical properties, cost-effectiveness, and manufacturing feasibility for heavy-duty applications.

• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including designers, engineers, manufacturing personnel, and quality control, to ensure seamless design integration into production.

• Execute and interpret tests such as stress analysis (FEA), fatigue testing, and vibration analysis to validate designs and optimize performance, strength, and operational characteristics.

• Generate comprehensive technical documentation, including detailed design specifications, bills of materials (BOMs), and assembly instructions.

• Proactively identify and implement opportunities for design optimization, cost reduction, and manufacturing efficiency improvements.

• Participate in hands-on troubleshooting during fabrication and assembly processes to resolve design-related issues.

• Provide field support for equipment troubleshooting and gather insights for future design enhancements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of design, analysis, collaboration, and practical problem-solving. The emphasis on "rugged and challenging terrain" and "heavy-duty equipment" implies a need for robust design practices and an understanding of extreme operating conditions. The inclusion of "field support" suggests a role that extends beyond the drawing board into real-world application.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

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 considered an asset.

• A strong foundation in machine design fundamentals, mechanics, materials science, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics is essential.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in 3D modeling software, specifically SolidWorks.

• Experience with FEA simulation software (e.g., Simulation).

• Strong understanding of engineering principles and their application to heavy machinery.

• Excellent problem-solving skills and a strong mechanical aptitude.

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

• Adaptability to a dynamic work environment and ability to manage competing demands.

• Ability to create visually appealing and user-friendly product designs that balance aesthetics with practicality.

Preferred Skills:

• Design experience in:

  • Welded steel fabrications for manual and robotic welding.
  • Hydraulic cylinders, components, control valves, and plumbing details, including advanced hydraulic power and electronic control systems, sensors, and controllers.
  • Diesel engine installations, vehicle drivetrain transmissions, and axle component selection.
  • Integration of attachments with heavy equipment, considering load distribution, stress analysis, material selection, and ease of installation.

• Experience with fluid power systems, engine systems, electrical and electronic systems, and drive train systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications clearly indicate a need for a formally educated engineer with practical design experience. The specific mention of SolidWorks and FEA software, along with detailed system knowledge (hydraulics, engines, drivetrains), narrows the focus to a specialized mechanical design role. The "asset" qualifications suggest areas where candidates can differentiate themselves.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of completed design projects, demonstrating proficiency in 3D modeling and technical drawing creation using SolidWorks.

• Include detailed case studies of mechanical components or systems designed, highlighting the problem statement, design process, material selection rationale, and final outcome.

• Present examples of engineering calculations and analysis performed, such as stress analysis (FEA), to validate design integrity and performance under load.

• Document projects that involved collaboration with manufacturing or other engineering disciplines, illustrating your ability to integrate designs for production.

Process Documentation:

• Illustrate your process for translating conceptual designs into detailed manufacturing-ready drawings and specifications.

• Provide examples of how you approach material selection and justification based on performance requirements, cost, and manufacturing considerations.

• Showcase your methodology for conducting design validation through prototyping, testing (e.g., stress, fatigue, vibration), and analysis.

• Detail your process for identifying and implementing design improvements for cost reduction and efficiency enhancements in manufacturing.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Product Designer role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only display technical skills but also the candidate's design process, problem-solving approach, and ability to deliver functional, manufacturable designs. Demonstrating experience with FEA and material selection will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

An estimated annual salary range for a Product Designer with 2-5 years of experience in Brantford, ON, Canada, would typically fall between CAD $65,000 and $85,000. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in the manufacturing and heavy equipment sector in Ontario, considering the specified responsibilities and qualifications.

Benefits:

• Competitive Wages and Profit Sharing: In addition to competitive wages, the company shares financial success through profit sharing.

• RRSP Matching Program: Support for retirement planning through an RRSP matching program.

• 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 benefits (including massage, physiotherapy, vision) and an Employee and Family Assistance Program (EAP) offering free programs.

• Active Social Committee: Participation in various company-sponsored social events, including annual picnics, holiday parties, theatre events, sporting events, and family outings.

Working Hours:

• Dedicated Day Shift: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday, totaling 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided benefits are extensive and reflect a company culture that values employee well-being, professional development, and work-life balance, even within an on-site role. The salary estimate is based on general market data for engineering roles in the specified region and experience level.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Heavy Equipment Manufacturing (Forestry, Construction, etc.)

Company Size: Tigercat is a significant player in its niche, likely employing several hundred to a few thousand individuals across its operations, suggesting a stable and established organization. MacDonald Steel, as part of the Tigercat group, contributes to this robust industrial footprint.

Founded: Tigercat was founded in 1992, indicating decades of experience and evolution in the heavy machinery sector.

Team Structure:

• The Product Designer will be part of an established engineering team, likely comprising fellow designers, mechanical engineers, and potentially specialists in areas like hydraulics or electrical systems.

• Collaboration will extend to manufacturing, quality control, and potentially field service teams, requiring strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Methodology:

• Design work will follow established engineering principles, utilizing CAD and FEA tools for design creation and validation.

• A systematic approach to problem-solving, material selection, and performance testing is expected.

• Emphasis will be placed on collaboration and cross-functional communication to ensure designs are optimized for manufacturability and operational performance.

• Continuous improvement and innovation will be driven by feedback from testing, manufacturing, and field support.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company operates in a demanding industry where reliability, durability, and performance are paramount. The culture likely values technical expertise, hard work, and a commitment to quality. The integration of MacDonald Steel suggests a larger corporate structure with diverse capabilities.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Product Designer role is positioned at a mid-level, requiring 2-5 years of experience. It offers a solid foundation in mechanical design within a specialized industry, with opportunities to develop expertise in complex machinery.

Reporting Structure: The role will likely report to a Senior Engineer, Lead Designer, or Engineering Manager, providing mentorship and guidance. The designer will also collaborate extensively with peers in engineering, manufacturing, and other departments.

Operations Impact: The Product Designer directly influences the performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of Tigercat's equipment. Their designs are critical to the company's ability to meet market demands, maintain a competitive edge, and ensure customer satisfaction in challenging operational environments.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop deep expertise in specific areas such as hydraulic systems, powertrain design, or structural analysis for heavy equipment.

• Advanced Roles: Progress to Senior Product Designer, Lead Design Engineer, or Engineering Manager positions, taking on greater project responsibility and leadership.

• Skill Development: Pursue further certifications or advanced degrees in specialized engineering fields, supported by the company's training reimbursement program.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Potentially move into project management, manufacturing engineering, or R&D roles within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a Product Designer in this industry typically involves deepening technical expertise or moving into leadership roles. The company's investment in training suggests a commitment to employee development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site position, indicating a traditional office and/or engineering lab environment. It is not a remote or hybrid role.

Office Location(s): Brantford, Paris, and Cambridge, Ontario, Canada. These locations suggest manufacturing facilities or engineering hubs within a commutable distance of each other.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely include a dedicated workstation equipped with necessary CAD and simulation software (SolidWorks, FEA).

• Opportunities for collaboration with engineering colleagues, manufacturing teams, and potentially hands-on work in fabrication or assembly areas will be present.

Work Schedule:

• Dedicated Day Shift: Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. This provides a consistent schedule, allowing for a predictable work-life balance within a standard business week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "in person only" reinforces the on-site nature of the role. The multiple locations may mean the primary engineering office is in one of these cities, with manufacturing spread across them.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications and experience against the role's requirements.

• Technical Interview: Likely to involve in-depth discussions about your mechanical engineering knowledge, CAD/FEA skills, and experience with relevant systems (hydraulics, engines, drivetrains). Be prepared to discuss specific projects and design challenges.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will present and discuss selected projects from your portfolio. Focus on demonstrating your design process, problem-solving abilities, and the impact of your contributions.

• Team/Manager Interview: An opportunity to meet with the hiring manager and potential team members to assess cultural fit, communication style, and alignment with team dynamics.

• Potential Site Visit/Hands-on Assessment: Depending on the final stages, you might be asked to visit a facility or complete a short design exercise.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your most relevant and impactful projects that showcase your skills in

SolidWorks, FEA, and complex mechanical design.

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly articulate:

  • The problem or objective.
  • Your design approach and methodology.
  • Key technical challenges and how you overcame them.
  • The tools and software used (e.g., SolidWorks, FEA).
  • The final design outcome and its benefits (e.g., improved performance, cost savings, manufacturability).
  • Your specific contributions if it was a team project.

• Highlight Technical Depth: Be ready to explain your calculations, material choices, and simulation results in detail. Emphasize your understanding of engineering principles.

• Showcase Collaboration: If possible, include projects where you worked effectively with manufacturing, suppliers, or other engineering disciplines.

• Prepare for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design decisions, problem-solving strategies, and how you handle design constraints.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenarios: Be prepared for hypothetical design challenges related to heavy equipment. Think about how you would approach defining requirements, conceptualizing solutions, and selecting materials.

• Problem-Solving Exercises: Practice breaking down complex mechanical problems and proposing systematic solutions. Consider common failure modes in heavy machinery.

• Communication: Prepare to articulate your technical ideas clearly and concisely, both verbally and visually.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily focus on technical proficiency and practical application of engineering principles. A strong portfolio demonstrating hands-on design experience with relevant software is critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Modeling Software: SolidWorks (essential). Candidates must be proficient in creating complex assemblies, detailed part models, and generating manufacturing drawings.

• FEA Software: Simulation (within SolidWorks) or other industry-standard FEA packages (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN) for stress, strain, and thermal analysis.

• CAD Software: General CAD principles and best practices will be applied across various design tasks.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design responsibilities, but an understanding of how designs integrate into larger product lifecycle management (PLM) systems or enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems for Bills of Materials (BOMs) could be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in SolidWorks and FEA software is non-negotiable for this role. The company likely uses these tools extensively in their design and validation processes.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: A drive to develop new solutions and enhance existing products through creative engineering and data-driven optimization.

• Quality & Reliability: A deep commitment to designing durable, high-performance equipment that can withstand demanding operational environments.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: A strong emphasis on working effectively with cross-functional teams to achieve common goals and ensure seamless product development.

• Technical Excellence: A dedication to applying sound engineering principles, staying current with technology, and maintaining a high standard of technical competence.

• Customer Focus: Designing products that meet the specific needs and challenges of customers in the forestry and related industries.

Collaboration Style:

• Expect a collaborative environment where open communication and knowledge sharing are encouraged.

• Designers will work closely with engineers, manufacturing personnel, and potentially sales/support teams to ensure designs are practical, manufacturable, and meet market needs.

• Feedback will be actively sought and provided throughout the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to value a blend of technical rigor, practical application, and collaborative spirit, fitting for a heavy equipment manufacturing environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Designing for Extreme Conditions: Developing robust designs that can withstand the harsh environments and demanding operational cycles of forestry equipment.

• Balancing Performance, Cost, and Manufacturability: Finding optimal solutions that meet high-performance requirements while remaining cost-effective to produce and easy to manufacture.

• System Integration Complexity: Ensuring seamless integration of various complex systems (hydraulic, engine, drivetrain, electrical) within a single piece of machinery.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Continuously learning and adapting to new materials, manufacturing techniques, and design tools to maintain a competitive edge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to training programs and potentially reimbursement for courses in advanced CAD/FEA, specific system design (e.g., advanced hydraulics), or materials science.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining deep insights into the forestry and heavy equipment industry, understanding user needs and operational challenges firsthand.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced engineers and designers within the organization.

• Project Variety: Working on diverse projects that offer exposure to different aspects of heavy machinery design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to the industry, requiring a designer who is both technically adept and resilient. The growth opportunities are substantial for those seeking to build a long-term career in heavy equipment engineering.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex mechanical design project you worked on, detailing your process from concept to production-ready drawings." (Focus on your methodology, CAD/FEA use, and problem-solving).

• "How do you approach material selection for components subjected to high stress and harsh environmental conditions?" (Discuss material properties, cost, manufacturing, and trade-offs).

• "Walk me through your experience with SolidWorks and FEA simulation. What types of analyses have you performed, and how did the results inform your design decisions?" (Be specific with examples and outcomes).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Tigercat and the heavy equipment industry?" (Show genuine interest in the company's products and mission).

• "How do you approach collaboration with manufacturing and other engineering teams?" (Emphasize your communication and teamwork skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Projects Wisely: Choose 3-5 projects that best showcase your SolidWorks, FEA, and general mechanical design capabilities relevant to heavy equipment.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, the technical challenges, and the impact of your design. Use visuals effectively.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about your design choices, calculations, material selection, and simulation results. Be prepared to defend your decisions with sound engineering principles.

• Highlight Practicality: Emphasize how your designs consider manufacturability, assembly, and field operation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss specific technical details of your past projects and demonstrate a strong understanding of the engineering principles applicable to heavy machinery.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

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

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight specific experience with SolidWorks, FEA, mechanical design, and any relevant industry sectors (forestry, construction, heavy equipment). Quantify your achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Assemble a digital portfolio showcasing your best design projects, focusing on mechanical components and systems. Be ready to present and discuss these in detail during an interview.

• Research Tigercat: Familiarize yourself with Tigercat's product lines, company history, and values. Understand their position in the heavy equipment market and the demands of the forestry industry.

• Practice Technical Explanations: Be prepared to articulate complex engineering concepts, design decisions, and problem-solving approaches 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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