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 Robotic & Automation Lead is accountable for driving ambitious automation goals across key production areas, including full automation of welding in panel and block assembly processes, full automation of block erection, significant automation in surface pretreatment and painting, and advanced automation for electrical cable installation. For welding, the ultimate objective is the deployment of autonomous robotic systems capable of identifying weld seams and performing welding operations without manual intervention.

The Robotic & Automation Lead plays a critical role in researching, evaluating, implementing, and sustaining advanced manufacturing solutions that improve safety, quality, productivity, and cost efficiency across shipyard operations, including welding, cutting, painting, blasting, cable pulling, forming, and material handling.

Working closely with Production and build strategy teams, the Robotic & Automation Lead drives innovation across core manufacturing processes. The role requires active engagement with global best practices through industry conferences, collaboration with equipment suppliers, and the execution of technical, financial, and feasibility analyses to support automation investment decisions. This is a hands-on, highly technical position deeply embedded within the production environment, with approximately 60-70% of time spent in production areas.

There will be occasional travel to conferences, supplier facilities, and industry events. The position requires flexibility to support off-shift or weekend work during equipment installation and commissioning as required.

Note:
Due to business needs, this position is required to be fully on-site at 50 Pemberton Avenue, North Vancouver.

• Controls Systems Management – Subject Matter Expert on Automation Equipment and Control Systems.
• Review and/or develop deliverables that will include 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 any others required to complete projects
• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Work closely with Production, Welding engineering, Quality, Project Managers and Maintenance teams to ensure…