Robotic and Automation Lead

Overview

The Robotic & Automation Lead is a strategic, forward-looking role focused on modernizing shipbuilding at Vancouver Shipyards through the introduction of world-class equipment, automation, and robotic technologies. The role is accountable for driving ambitious automation goals across key production areas, including welding, block assembly, surface pretreatment and painting, and electrical cable installation. The objective is to deploy autonomous robotic systems capable of identifying weld seams and performing welding operations with minimal manual intervention.

This position is hands-on, deeply embedded in the production environment, with approximately 60-70% of time spent in production areas. Occasional travel to conferences, supplier facilities, and industry events is required. The role requires on-site presence at 50 Pemberton Avenue, North Vancouver.

Advanced Manufacturing, Automation Technology Development

• Controls Systems Management – Subject Matter Expert on automation equipment and control systems.
• Review and/or develop deliverables including control system architecture and block diagrams, communication network drawings, PLC and DCS panel drawings, instrument loop diagrams, junction box wiring diagrams, instrument indexes, I/O lists, and related project deliverables.
• Research, evaluate, and introduce world-class manufacturing equipment, automation, and robotic systems applicable to shipbuilding.
• Stay current with global shipyard technologies, automation trends, and best practices through conferences, site visits, supplier engagement, and industry benchmarking.
• Lead feasibility studies, cost–benefit analyses, and ROI assessments to support business cases for automation and capital investment.
• Develop technical specifications, layouts, and implementation plans for new equipment and automated processes.

Welding, Cutting & Forming Expertise

• Provide subject matter expertise in welding, cutting, and forming processes, including weld distortion control and process optimization.
• Support the development and implementation of welding automation, robotic welding cells, and advanced cutting technologies.
• Collaborate with production and quality teams to ensure automated solutions meet weld quality, safety, and regulatory requirements.
• Support robot programming, process validation, and commissioning activities.

Layouts, Process Optimization & Lean Integration

• Design efficient production layouts that integrate automation while optimizing material flow, space utilization, ergonomics, and safety.
• Apply lean manufacturing principles, value stream mapping, and time studies to identify automation opportunities and eliminate waste.
• Develop and maintain manufacturing standards, work instructions, and process documentation for new technologies.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives across cutting, fabrication, welding, outfitting, and painting operations.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Implementation

• Work closely with Production, Welding engineering, Quality, Project Managers and Maintenance teams to ensure seamless implementation.
• Provide on-floor support during installation, commissioning, and ramp-up of new equipment and automated processes.
• Train and support production and maintenance teams in the adoption of new technologies and workflows.
• Participate in root cause analysis and continuous improvement related to automated systems.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical, Electrical/controls/automation, Manufacturing, or Welding Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Registered Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) or eligibility for registration is preferred.
• Meet requirements for Canadian Controlled Goods Program (CGP) and Secret clearance.
• Minimum 7–10 years of experience in industrial controls, robotics and automation in heavy manufacturing, preferably in shipbuilding or large steel fabrication environments.
• Demonstrated experience with welding processes and weld distortion control; plasma, laser, or oxy-fuel cutting systems; forming and fabrication operations; welding automation and robotic systems; robot programming and process integration.
• Proven experience developing layouts,…