Robotic and Automation Lead

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.

What you’ll do

Advanced Manufacturing, Automation Technology Development

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.

Welding, Cutting & Forming Expertise

Layouts, Process Optimization & Lean Integration

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Implementation

What you’ll bring

Why you’ll love working here

The estimated salary for this position is $119,700 -  $146,300. In determining final salary, Seaspan considers many factors including the successful Candidate’s skills and experience as well as position location and internal equity. The final base salary offer will be at the Company’s sole discretion and presented as part of a competitive total compensation package.

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