Product Designer Mechatronics

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer - Mechatronic Systems

Company: Tigercat | MacDonald Steel

Location: Brantford, ON, Canada

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering / Design

Date Posted: 2026-06-05

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and develop innovative mechatronic systems for heavy-duty forestry equipment, integrating mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, and electronic components.

• Create detailed mechanical engineering designs, drawings, and specifications to enhance existing products and drive new developments within a rugged terrain environment.

• Develop electro-hydraulic, computer-controlled systems that enable direct, remote, automatic, or autonomous control of mobile machinery.

• Collaborate closely with established engineering and cross-functional teams to ensure seamless product integration from concept to production.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong blend of mechanical engineering principles and an understanding of mechatronics, with a focus on mobile heavy-duty equipment. The "Product Designer" title, coupled with "Mechatronic Systems," indicates a hands-on design role focused on the integration of mechanical, electronic, and control systems, rather than purely aesthetic product design. The emphasis on forestry equipment suggests a need for robust, durable designs capable of withstanding harsh operating conditions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and develop detailed mechanical engineering designs, drawings, and specifications for mechatronic systems, ensuring adherence to performance, safety, and industry standards.

• Create electro-hydraulic and computer-controlled systems by integrating hydraulic components, sensors, input devices, and control logic for mobile machines.

• Develop efficient and user-friendly interface systems for both operators and service technicians, enhancing machine usability and maintainability.

• Analyze and select appropriate materials and components based on mechanical properties, cost-effectiveness, and suitability for manufacturing processes.

• Conduct rigorous testing, including stress analysis, fatigue testing, vibration analysis, and control logic validation, to verify designs and optimize performance.

• Generate comprehensive technical documentation, such as design specifications, control logic diagrams, and detailed Bills of Materials (BOMs).

• Identify and implement opportunities for design optimization, cost reduction, and overall efficiency improvements in product development.

• Provide hands-on troubleshooting support during fabrication and assembly processes, and occasionally during field operations.

• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including designers, engineers, manufacturing, and quality control personnel, to ensure successful product integration.

• Occasionally travel within Canada and internationally for research, field support, and professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a practical, end-to-end design and development lifecycle, from concept and CAD to testing, documentation, and field support. The emphasis on electro-hydraulic and computer-controlled systems, coupled with user interface development for operators and technicians, points to a role requiring both deep technical expertise and an understanding of human-machine interaction in industrial settings.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

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

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

• 2-5 years of relevant design experience in mechatronics or mechanical systems. Required Skills:

• Strong understanding of engineering principles, control logic, mobile computer systems, user interfaces, low-power electrical design, and mobile hydraulic systems.

• Proficiency in 3D modeling software, specifically SolidWorks.

• Solid understanding of machine design fundamentals, mechanics, machine control theory, sensor technologies, remote control, and autonomous control systems.

• Effective communication and reasoning skills for cross-functional collaboration on complex projects.

• Adaptability to a changing work environment, competing demands, and unexpected events.

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

• Commitment to continuous learning and staying updated on emerging technologies for innovation. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with fluid power systems and engine systems.

• Experience with electrical and electronic systems integration.

• Experience with drive train systems.

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

• Design experience with hydraulic cylinders, components, control valves, and plumbing.

• Design experience with diesel engine installations, vehicle drive train transmissions, and axle component selection.

• Experience designing attachments for heavy equipment, considering load distribution, stress analysis, material selection, and ease of installation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of foundational engineering knowledge and practical application, with a specific requirement for SolidWorks and a preference for experience in heavy-duty mobile equipment sectors. The listed preferred skills provide clear direction on areas that would make a candidate particularly strong for this role, indicating a need for a broad understanding of integrated vehicle systems.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase detailed examples of mechanical designs, including 3D models and 2D drawings created in SolidWorks.

• Present case studies of mechatronic systems designed, highlighting the integration of mechanical, hydraulic, and electronic components.

• Demonstrate experience with control logic development and simulation for electro-hydraulic or computer-controlled systems.

• Include examples of user interface designs for operators or service technicians, emphasizing usability and efficiency.

• Illustrate problem-solving methodologies applied to design challenges, showing the process from identification to solution implementation. Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of technical documentation created, such as design specifications, control logic diagrams, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).

• Detail the process followed for material and component selection, considering performance, cost, and manufacturability.

• Outline the methodologies used for design validation, including stress analysis, fatigue testing, and control logic testing.

• Showcase any process improvements or optimizations implemented in previous design or development cycles.

📝 Enhancement Note: A portfolio is crucial for this role to visually demonstrate technical proficiency and design thinking. Candidates should focus on projects involving complex integrated systems, showcasing their ability to design for harsh environments and their understanding of user-centric design principles for heavy machinery. Highlighting the process from concept to validation and documentation will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• CAD $70,000 - $95,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. Benefits:

• Competitive wages and profit sharing program.

• RRSP Matching Program for retirement planning.

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

• Company-Paid Healthcare Benefits, including prescription coverage, massages, physiotherapy, and vision care.

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

• Active Social Committee with various events (family picnics, Christmas parties, theatre, sporting events).

• Discounted admission prices for attractions across Ontario. Working Hours:

• Dedicated Day Shift: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday.

• Standard 40-hour work week.

📝 Enhancement Note: Based on industry standards for Product Designers with 2-5 years of experience in Ontario, Canada, a salary range of CAD $70,000 to $95,000 is estimated. This range accounts for the specialized nature of mechatronics and heavy equipment design. The benefits package is comprehensive, emphasizing employee well-being, professional development, and a strong sense of community.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Heavy Machinery Manufacturing, Forestry Equipment, Industrial Equipment.

Company Size: Tigercat | MacDonald Steel is part of a larger organization, likely employing over 1,000 individuals globally. The local Brantford operation would be a significant engineering and manufacturing hub.

Founded: Tigercat was founded in 1992, establishing a strong reputation for durable, high-performance forestry equipment. MacDonald Steel is likely an acquired entity or a closely integrated division focused on fabrication and specialized components.

Team Structure:

• The mechatronics engineering team is likely composed of specialized engineers (mechanical, electrical, controls) and designers working collaboratively.

• Reporting structure will likely involve a Lead Engineer or Engineering Manager overseeing product development projects.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving close work with manufacturing, quality control, product management, and potentially field service teams. Methodology:

• Data-driven design approach, utilizing simulation, testing, and performance analysis to inform design decisions.

• Emphasis on robust engineering principles and adherence to industry standards for heavy-duty equipment.

• Iterative design processes, incorporating feedback from testing, manufacturing, and field applications.

• Focus on efficiency improvements, cost reduction, and innovation in mechanical and control systems.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Tigercat is known for its commitment to engineering excellence and building tough, reliable equipment for demanding environments. The culture likely values hard work, technical expertise, innovation, and a strong sense of team and company pride. The integration with MacDonald Steel suggests a focus on integrated manufacturing and design capabilities.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-level within the engineering and design hierarchy. It offers the opportunity to take ownership of significant design components and projects, contributing directly to product innovation and improvement.

Reporting Structure: The Product Designer will report to a Senior Engineer or Engineering Manager, working as part of a dedicated product development team. Regular interaction with other engineering disciplines and manufacturing personnel is expected.

Operations Impact: The designs developed in this role directly impact the performance, reliability, and operational efficiency of Tigercat's heavy-duty forestry equipment. Successful mechatronic system integration leads to enhanced operator control, reduced downtime, improved productivity, and a competitive edge in the market.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like electro-hydraulics, autonomous control systems, or advanced materials within mechatronics.

• Project Leadership: Progress to leading design projects, managing smaller teams, and taking greater responsibility for product development lifecycles.

• Cross-functional Advancement: Opportunities to move into roles with broader scope, such as Senior Product Designer, Engineering Lead, or even into product management or R&D leadership positions.

• Continuous Learning: Access to training reimbursement and on-the-job learning to stay current with evolving technologies in robotics, AI, and advanced manufacturing.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for technical growth within a specialized engineering field. The company's commitment to training and development suggests a supportive environment for career progression, particularly for those who demonstrate strong problem-solving skills and a passion for heavy machinery innovation.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in an on-site engineering office environment, integrated within a manufacturing facility. This provides direct access to production floors, testing labs, and prototyping workshops.

Office Location(s): 451 Elgin St, Brantford, ON. This location is within a key manufacturing and engineering hub for Tigercat.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be collaborative, with shared design studios and meeting rooms facilitating interaction with engineering colleagues.

• Access to advanced design software (SolidWorks), testing equipment, and prototyping facilities is expected.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with manufacturing teams and hands-on engagement with machinery during development and troubleshooting.

• A dynamic environment that balances focused design work with hands-on problem-solving on the shop floor. Work Schedule:

• Standard Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm schedule, totaling 40 hours per week.

• This established schedule provides predictability, while the nature of engineering projects may occasionally require flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of this role is critical for its hands-on responsibilities. Proximity to manufacturing and testing facilities is a key advantage, enabling rapid prototyping, iteration, and direct problem-solving. The collaborative workspace is designed to foster innovation and efficiency in product development.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Recruiter will review applications and conduct a brief introductory call to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.

• Technical Interview(s): Expect interviews with engineering managers and senior designers. These will focus on your understanding of mechanical and mechatronic principles, control systems, and problem-solving approaches. Be prepared to discuss past projects in detail.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will walk through your design portfolio, explaining your design process, technical challenges, solutions, and the impact of your work. This is a critical part of the evaluation.

• Case Study/Technical Challenge: You might be presented with a design problem or scenario to analyze and propose solutions for, either during an interview or as a take-home assignment.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with higher-level management or a broader team to discuss your fit within the company culture and your long-term career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure your portfolio: Organize projects logically, perhaps by complexity, technology, or impact.

• Detail your process: For each project, clearly articulate the problem statement, your design approach, the tools used (e.g., SolidWorks, simulation software), challenges encountered, solutions implemented, and the outcomes or results.

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

• Highlight mechatronics integration: Emphasize projects where mechanical, hydraulic, and electronic systems were successfully integrated.

• Prepare to discuss: Be ready to answer in-depth questions about your design choices, trade-offs made, and lessons learned.

Challenge Preparation:

• Review core concepts: Brush up on mechanical engineering fundamentals, fluid power systems, control theory, and common mechatronic applications.

• Practice problem-solving: Work through hypothetical design problems related to heavy machinery, focusing on identifying constraints, proposing viable solutions, and considering practical implementation.

• Articulate your thinking: Be prepared to explain your thought process clearly and concisely, even if you don't arrive at a definitive solution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process heavily emphasizes practical application and demonstrated ability. A well-curated portfolio that clearly articulates the candidate's design process and impact is paramount. Candidates should be ready to discuss technical details and defend their design decisions with a strong understanding of engineering principles.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Modeling: SolidWorks (essential).

• CAD Software: Proficiency in other related CAD tools may be beneficial.

• Design & Simulation Software: Experience with tools for Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for stress/fatigue testing, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for hydraulic analysis, and motion simulation.

• Prototyping Tools: Familiarity with rapid prototyping techniques and 3D printing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: While not primary, understanding how design performance data is collected and analyzed.

• Documentation Tools: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for technical documentation and presentations.

CRM & Automation:

• PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) Systems: Experience with PLM software for managing design data, revisions, and BOMs is highly advantageous.

• ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) Systems: Basic understanding of how designs integrate with manufacturing and inventory systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: SolidWorks is explicitly mentioned as a required skill. Beyond that, familiarity with simulation and analysis tools (FEA, CFD) is critical for validating designs. Experience with PLM systems is a significant plus for managing complex product data in a manufacturing environment.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: A drive to develop new and improved mechatronic solutions for the forestry industry.

• Quality & Reliability: Commitment to designing robust, durable, and high-performance equipment that withstands harsh conditions.

• Collaboration: Strong emphasis on teamwork, open communication, and cross-functional support.

• Efficiency: Focus on optimizing designs for manufacturability, cost-effectiveness, and operational performance.

• Customer Focus: Designing products that meet the demanding needs of operators and businesses in the forestry sector.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, with frequent interaction between design engineers, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and manufacturing personnel.

• Open to feedback and constructive criticism, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

• Emphasis on clear communication of technical details and design intent to ensure successful implementation.

• Team members are expected to support each other, share knowledge, and work together to achieve project goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be a blend of technical excellence, hands-on problem-solving, and a strong sense of community. The values align with the demands of manufacturing heavy equipment, where reliability, performance, and teamwork are paramount.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Designing complex integrated systems that must perform reliably in extreme environmental conditions (dust, vibration, temperature variations).

• Balancing performance requirements with cost constraints and manufacturability for heavy-duty equipment.

• Staying abreast of rapidly evolving technologies in automation, sensors, and control systems.

• Troubleshooting and resolving issues that may arise during prototype development, manufacturing, or in the field.

• Effectively integrating operator feedback and service technician insights into design improvements. Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to courses and certifications in advanced SolidWorks features, mechatronics, control systems, and fluid power.

• Industry Conferences: Opportunities to attend relevant trade shows and conferences to learn about new technologies and network with industry professionals.

• Mentorship: Learning from experienced engineers and designers within the team.

• On-the-Job Learning: Gaining practical experience through hands-on design, testing, and troubleshooting of complex machinery.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Opportunities to understand manufacturing processes, material science, and field service challenges, broadening overall engineering knowledge.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant challenges that are directly tied to innovation and problem-solving in a demanding industrial sector. The growth opportunities are substantial, particularly for individuals who are eager to deepen their technical expertise and contribute to the advancement of heavy machinery technology.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex mechatronic system you designed. What were the key challenges, your approach, and the outcome?" (Focus on your process, integration, and problem-solving).

• "How do you balance performance requirements with cost and manufacturability in your designs?" (Demonstrate your understanding of trade-offs and practical engineering).

• "Walk me through your process for selecting materials and components for a new mechanical design." (Highlight your analytical approach and knowledge of material properties).

• "How would you approach designing a user interface for a new control system on a piece of heavy forestry equipment?" (Showcase your user-centric design thinking and understanding of operator needs). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you specifically about Tigercat and the forestry equipment industry?" (Research Tigercat's products, market position, and values).

• "How do you approach collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as manufacturing or quality control?" (Emphasize communication, problem-solving, and shared goals).

• "Describe a time you had to adapt to unexpected changes or challenges in a project. How did you handle it?" (Show your adaptability and resilience). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select impactful projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your mechatronics design skills, SolidWorks proficiency, and problem-solving abilities.

• Tell a story: For each project, explain the "why" (the problem), the "how" (your design process and solutions), and the "what" (the results and impact).

• Be technically precise: Be ready to discuss the specifics of your designs, including materials, components, calculations, and trade-offs made.

• Highlight integration: Clearly articulate how you integrated mechanical, hydraulic, and electronic elements.

• Use visuals effectively: Ensure your 3D models, drawings, and schematics are clear and easy to understand.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on showcasing practical design experience, technical depth, and a collaborative mindset. Candidates should be ready to articulate their design process and demonstrate how their skills align with the specific needs of designing heavy-duty mechatronic systems.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer - Mechatronic Systems position:

• Submit your application through the provided Dayforce link: https://jobs.dayforcehcm.com/en-US/tcii/TIND/jobs/8456

• Tailor your Resume: Highlight specific experience with SolidWorks, mechatronics, heavy-duty equipment design, and any relevant industries (forestry, construction, mining). Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare your Portfolio: Curate a digital portfolio showcasing your best design projects, emphasizing your process, technical solutions, and impact. Ensure it's easily accessible for review.

• Research Tigercat: Familiarize yourself with Tigercat's product lines, company history, and values to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

• Practice your Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common technical and behavioral questions, focusing on real-world examples from your experience. Be prepared to discuss your portfolio in detail.

⚠️ 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.