Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer

Company: Tigercat | MacDonald Steel

Location: Brant, Ontario, Canada; Brantford, Ontario, Canada

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering / Product Design

Date Posted: September 14, 2026

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 developments.

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

• Conduct rigorous testing, including stress analysis, fatigue testing, and vibration analysis, to validate designs and optimize performance, strength, and response characteristics.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a "Product Designer" but the core responsibilities and required skills clearly indicate a strong emphasis on Mechanical Engineering design within a manufacturing context. The job description details a need for hands-on mechanical aptitude and experience with complex systems like fluid power, engines, and drivetrains, aligning with a Mechanical Design Engineer or Product Development Engineer role rather than a UX/UI Product Designer.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop detailed mechanical designs, perform engineering calculations, and create prototypes for components and systems in rugged forestry equipment, ensuring adherence to performance, safety, and industry standards.

• Select appropriate materials based on detailed analysis of mechanical properties, cost-effectiveness, and manufacturability, ensuring durability and reliability.

• Engage in close collaboration with cross-functional teams, including fellow designers/engineers, manufacturing specialists, and quality control personnel, to facilitate the smooth transition of designs into the production pipeline.

• Execute and analyze various tests, such as structural Finite Element Analysis (FEA), fatigue testing, and vibration analysis, to rigorously validate design integrity and optimize overall equipment performance and longevity.

• Produce precise technical documentation, including comprehensive design specifications, detailed drawings, and accurate bills of materials (BOMs), to guide manufacturing and assembly processes.

• Proactively identify and implement opportunities for design optimization, cost reduction initiatives, and improvements in manufacturing efficiency throughout the product lifecycle.

• Provide direct, hands-on support and troubleshooting assistance during the fabrication and assembly phases of equipment production, resolving unforeseen technical challenges.

• Offer field support when necessary, assisting with equipment troubleshooting and contributing to the continuous improvement of deployed machinery through design feedback and modifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of conceptual design, detailed engineering, rigorous testing, and hands-on problem-solving, typical of a Mechanical Design Engineer role focused on heavy machinery. The emphasis on "enhancing existing products and driving new developments" suggests involvement in both incremental improvements and new product introduction lifecycles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

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

Experience: A minimum of 2-5 years of design experience, particularly 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.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated hands-on approach, creative thinking, self-motivation, and a passion for tackling diverse and challenging technical tasks.

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

• Effective communication and reasoning skills, essential for collaborating with coworkers on projects involving multiple team members and cross-functional input.

• Adaptability to a dynamic work environment, ability to manage competing demands, and resilience in dealing with frequent changes, delays, or unexpected events.

• Ability to create visually appealing and user-friendly product designs that effectively balance aesthetics with practical functionality and robust performance.

• Commitment to continuous learning and staying updated on emerging technologies to drive innovation and improve existing product solutions.

• Strong understanding of machine design fundamentals, mechanics, materials science, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics.

• Familiarity with structural FEA and dynamic simulation of machine components. Preferred Skills:

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

• Experience with welded steel fabrications for manual and robotic welding.

• Design experience with hydraulic cylinders and components, including control valve and plumbing details, and implementing advanced hydraulic power and electronic control systems, sensors, and controllers.

• Experience with diesel engine installations and vehicle drive train/axle component selection.

• Design experience with attachments for heavy equipment, considering load distribution, stress analysis, material selection, and ease of installation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Skills and Experience" section is quite detailed, outlining both soft skills (adaptability, communication, creativity) and hard technical skills (CAD, FEA, specific system knowledge). The preferred skills list directly relates to the core product lines of Tigercat, indicating specific areas of expertise that would be highly valued.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of design projects demonstrating the application of engineering principles to solve complex mechanical challenges.

• Include examples of detailed 3D CAD models and technical drawings created using SolidWorks or similar software.

• Present case studies of design optimization efforts, highlighting improvements in performance, cost reduction, or manufacturing efficiency.

• Demonstrate experience with stress analysis (FEA) and dynamic simulations, illustrating how these were used to validate and refine designs.

• Provide evidence of material selection rationale and justification for choices based on performance and cost. Process Documentation:

• Document the design process from concept generation through to detailed design, including how requirements were translated into engineering specifications.

• Illustrate the iterative design process, including testing, analysis, and refinement stages, with clear explanations of decisions made.

• Detail the creation and management of technical documentation, such as BOMs and assembly instructions, ensuring clarity and accuracy for manufacturing.

• Showcase examples of collaboration with manufacturing and quality control, detailing how design feedback was incorporated.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, a "Product Designer" role in this context, especially with the engineering focus, would strongly benefit from a portfolio that showcases a candidate's ability to translate complex technical requirements into tangible, manufacturable designs. The portfolio should emphasize problem-solving and the application of engineering tools.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $34 - $40 per hour. Based on current market data for Mechanical Designers/Engineers with 2-5 years of experience in Brantford/Brant, Ontario, this range is competitive. The hourly rate typically translates to an annual salary of approximately $70,720 - $83,200 CAD, assuming a standard 40-hour work week.

Benefits:

• Competitive wages complemented by a profit-sharing program, reflecting shared financial success.

• RRSP Matching Program to support long-term retirement planning.

• Skills Development and Training Reimbursement, encouraging continuous professional growth with pre-approval.

• Comprehensive Company-Paid Healthcare Benefits, including coverage for prescriptions, medications, massages, physiotherapy, and vision.

• Employee and Family Assistance Program (EAP) offering a range of free support programs.

• Active Social Committee organizing events such as annual family picnics, Christmas parties, theatre outings, sporting events, and discounted attraction access.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided in hourly terms, common for manufacturing and technical roles in Canada. The benefits package is extensive, emphasizing work-life balance, professional development, and employee well-being, which are significant attractors for mid-level professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

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

Tigercat is a leading manufacturer of forestry equipment, known for its robust and specialized machinery designed for demanding terrains. The industry is characterized by innovation, durability, and high performance requirements.

Company Size: The company is part of the Tigercat Industries group, which is a significant player in its sector. While specific numbers for "Tigercat | MacDonald Steel" aren't provided, Tigercat Industries as a whole likely employs several hundred to over a thousand individuals globally, indicating a stable and established organization with ample resources for product development and engineering.

Founded: Tigercat was founded in 1992. This long history signifies a deep understanding of the industry and a sustained commitment to product quality and customer satisfaction.

Team Structure:

• The Product Designer will be part of an established engineering team, likely comprising other designers, engineers, and technical specialists.

• Reporting structure will likely be to an Engineering Manager or Lead Designer, with close collaboration across departments such as manufacturing, quality control, and potentially R&D.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a key aspect, requiring interaction with manufacturing floor personnel, assembly teams, and potentially field service technicians to gather feedback and ensure design feasibility. Methodology:

• Design projects will likely involve a structured engineering approach, from initial concept and requirements gathering through detailed design, prototyping, testing, and production support.

• Emphasis on data-driven decision-making, utilizing analysis tools like FEA and simulation to validate design choices and optimize performance.

• Workflow planning will be critical to manage project timelines and ensure timely delivery of designs to manufacturing.

• Automation and efficiency practices may be applied to design processes and manufacturing methods where applicable.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's specialization in rugged forestry equipment suggests a culture that values durability, engineering excellence, and practical solutions. The "family-oriented" description in the benefits section points towards a supportive and close-knit work environment, common in established manufacturing firms.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is suitable for a mid-level Product Designer or Mechanical Engineer with 2-5 years of experience. It offers the opportunity to take ownership of design projects, contribute significantly to product development, and gain in-depth experience with complex heavy machinery.

Reporting Structure: The Product Designer will likely report to a Senior Engineering Lead or Engineering Manager. This structure provides mentorship and guidance while allowing for independent work on design tasks. Collaboration will extend across manufacturing, quality, and potentially R&D teams.

Operations Impact: The Product Designer's work directly impacts the performance, reliability, and market competitiveness of Tigercat's heavy equipment. Successful designs contribute to increased customer satisfaction, reduced warranty claims, and enhanced operational efficiency for end-users in demanding industries.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas such as hydraulic systems, powertrain design, structural integrity, or advanced materials within the heavy equipment sector.

• Leadership: Progress to a Senior Product Designer or Lead Engineer role, taking on more complex projects, mentoring junior designers, and contributing to strategic design decisions.

• Skill Development: Further training and certification in advanced CAD/FEA software, materials science, or specific industry technologies through reimbursement programs.

• Project Management: Gain experience in managing design projects from conception to completion, improving project planning and execution skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Product Designer in this type of manufacturing environment typically involves moving from individual contributor roles to lead positions, potentially managing small teams or specific product lines, and influencing future product strategy.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site, requiring presence in the office for design work, collaboration, and potential interaction with manufacturing and assembly lines.

Office Location(s): Opportunities exist in Brantford and Paris, Ontario, Canada. These locations are within a region known for its manufacturing and industrial base.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be collaborative, with designers working together and interacting closely with engineers from various disciplines.

• Access to modern CAD software (SolidWorks mentioned) and potentially FEA simulation tools is standard.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with the manufacturing floor and assembly processes will provide valuable context and feedback for design work.

Work Schedule: A dedicated Day Shift from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday, offers a predictable and stable work schedule, allowing for a good work-life balance while ensuring full-time engagement with project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on on-site work and direct collaboration with manufacturing teams is crucial for a role involving physical product design and development. This environment fosters practical problem-solving and a deep understanding of production realities.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and relevant experience.

• Technical Interview: This stage will likely involve in-depth discussions about your mechanical engineering knowledge, CAD/FEA skills, and experience with relevant systems (hydraulics, engines, etc.). Expect to discuss your approach to design challenges.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will present specific design projects from your portfolio. Be prepared to explain your design process, rationale, challenges faced, and the outcomes achieved. Focus on projects demonstrating problem-solving and engineering rigor.

• Cross-functional/Team Interview: An opportunity to meet with potential colleagues from engineering, manufacturing, or other departments. This assesses your collaboration skills, communication style, and cultural fit within the team.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior leadership to discuss career aspirations and overall fit with the company's vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Engineering Rigor: Prioritize projects that clearly demonstrate your understanding of mechanical principles, material science, and structural analysis.

• Detail Your Process: For each project, explain the problem statement, your design approach, the tools used (CAD, FEA), key decisions made, and how you validated your design.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, provide quantifiable results – e.g., "reduced weight by 15%", "improved stress resistance by 20%", "decreased manufacturing cost by 10%".

• Highlight Collaboration: If applicable, describe how you collaborated with other teams (manufacturing, suppliers) and how that collaboration influenced the final design.

• Tailor to the Role: Select projects that align with the requirements of a Product Designer in the heavy equipment/forestry sector.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for technical questions related to machine design, stress analysis, material selection, and CAD best practices.

• Practice articulating complex technical concepts clearly and concisely.

• Review common design challenges in heavy machinery and how you might approach them.

• Understand the company's products and industry to frame your answers effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the technical nature of this role, the interview process will heavily scrutinize technical proficiency and practical application of engineering knowledge. A well-curated portfolio that tells a story of problem-solving and engineering excellence is paramount.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Modeling Software: SolidWorks is explicitly mentioned as required. Proficiency in creating complex assemblies, detailed part models, and generating manufacturing drawings is essential.

• FEA/Simulation Software: Experience with SolidWorks Simulation or similar structural analysis and dynamic simulation tools is required for validating designs and optimizing performance.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed, an understanding of how design choices impact performance metrics (e.g., fuel efficiency, load capacity, durability) is implied.

• Ability to interpret test data and translate it into design improvements. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but an understanding of how Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems are used to manage design data and revisions might be beneficial.

• Awareness of manufacturing automation processes and how designs interface with them.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is focused on core CAD and simulation tools essential for mechanical design. Proficiency in SolidWorks is a key differentiator.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Engineering Excellence: A strong emphasis on technical proficiency, precision, and delivering high-quality, robust designs.

• Innovation: A drive to continuously improve products, explore new technologies, and push the boundaries of equipment performance.

• Teamwork: A collaborative environment where cross-functional cooperation is essential for successful product development and manufacturing.

• Problem-Solving: A culture that embraces challenges and encourages creative, practical solutions to complex engineering problems.

• Durability and Reliability: A core value reflecting the demanding nature of the forestry industry and the company's commitment to producing long-lasting equipment.

Collaboration Style:

• Expect a hands-on, collaborative approach where designers work closely with engineers, manufacturing personnel, and potentially field technicians.

• Open communication and the ability to provide and receive constructive feedback are crucial for iterating on designs and ensuring manufacturability.

• A shared commitment to project success and continuous improvement will likely define the team's dynamic.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on heavy-duty equipment for rugged environments suggests a culture that values practicality, engineering integrity, and resilience. The "family-oriented" aspect implies a supportive and engaged workforce.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Designing for Extreme Conditions: Developing solutions that can withstand harsh environments, heavy loads, and continuous operation in the forestry industry requires innovative engineering and meticulous attention to detail.

• Balancing Performance and Cost: Optimizing designs to meet stringent performance requirements while remaining cost-effective for manufacturing and market competitiveness.

• Integrating Complex Systems: Ensuring seamless integration of diverse systems (hydraulics, engines, electronics, drivetrains) into a cohesive and functional machine.

• Staying Ahead of Technological Advancements: Keeping pace with evolving manufacturing technologies, materials, and design tools to maintain a competitive edge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Opportunities for specialized training in areas like advanced FEA, specific material applications, or new CAD functionalities.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining deep knowledge of the forestry and heavy equipment industry, including operational challenges and user needs.

• Mentorship: Learning from experienced engineers and designers within the team, fostering professional growth and skill development.

• Project Ownership: Taking on increasing responsibility for design projects, leading to enhanced project management and leadership skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in designing heavy machinery for demanding applications present significant opportunities for engineers to develop advanced problem-solving skills and deep technical expertise.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex mechanical design challenge you faced and how you overcame it. What was your design process?" (Focus on problem-solving, your methodology, and outcomes).

• "How do you approach material selection for components subjected to high stress and environmental factors?" (Demonstrate understanding of material science and trade-offs).

• "Walk me through a design project where you utilized SolidWorks and FEA. What were the key insights gained from the simulation?" (Highlight technical skills and analytical approach).

• "How do you ensure your designs are manufacturable and cost-effective?" (Showcase awareness of production realities and business constraints). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about designing equipment for the forestry industry?" (Show your passion for the application).

• "How do you handle constructive criticism or differing opinions on a design from colleagues or supervisors?" (Assess collaboration and adaptability).

• "Describe a time you had to adapt to a changing work environment or project demands." (Evaluate your flexibility). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or complexity. For each project, clearly state the objective, your role, the solution, and the results.

• Visuals: Use high-quality images, 3D renderings, and diagrams to illustrate your work. Include screenshots of CAD models and simulation results.

• Narrative: Tell a compelling story for each project, focusing on the problem, your innovative solution, and the tangible impact of your design.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to go into detail about the engineering principles, calculations, and software used.

• Conciseness: Practice presenting your key projects within a reasonable timeframe, focusing on the most relevant and impressive aspects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to demonstrate not just theoretical knowledge, but practical application and the ability to communicate complex technical information effectively to various stakeholders.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on jobs.dayforcehcm.com.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight specific experience with mechanical design, CAD software (especially SolidWorks), FEA, and any relevant industries (forestry, heavy equipment, construction). Quantify your achievements with metrics whenever possible.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your strongest design projects that best showcase your skills in mechanical engineering, problem-solving, and CAD/FEA. Ensure your portfolio clearly articulates your design process and outcomes.

• Prepare Your Narrative: Practice explaining your portfolio projects in detail, focusing on the challenges, your solutions, and the results. Be ready to discuss your technical expertise and collaborative approach.

• Research Tigercat: Familiarize yourself with Tigercat's product lines, their applications in the forestry industry, and the company's values to demonstrate your interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ 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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