Robotics & ROV Specialist – Remote Operated Vehicles, USVs, Drones & Aquatic Survey
Location: BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Nunavut – Travel Required Across Canada
Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent
About VSI
VSI is a national leader in underwater robotics, commercial diving, and remote inspection services. Our team supports critical infrastructure across Western and Northern Canada using cutting-edge technologies including:
- ROVs (Remotely Operated Vehicles)
- Pipe Crawlers & Magnetic Crawler Systems
- USVs (Unmanned Surface Vessels)
- Industrial Drone Systems
- Multibeam Sonar, Side-Scan, and Photogrammetry
- Hydrographic & Geophysical Survey Equipment
- AWWA, CSA, and WorkSafe BC-compliant safety systems
We work on potable water reservoirs, pipelines, dams, intakes, marine structures, and industrial facilities.
Position Overview
We are seeking a Robotics & ROV Specialist to operate, maintain, and deploy a variety of robotic platforms for aquatic and aerial inspection projects. This hands-on role will involve field-based operations using ROVs, pipe crawlers, USVs, and UAVs, along with equipment integration, data acquisition, and post-mission deliverable creation.
The ideal candidate is highly technical, mechanically capable, and experienced in underwater or aerial remote systems, GPS integration, and inspection reporting. Travel to field sites across BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and the North is required.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate and maintain ROVs, pipe crawlers, drones, and USVs for a variety of inspection and survey projects
- Conduct aquatic inspections (reservoirs, intakes, outfalls, pipelines, dams) using sonar and visual tools
- Perform aerial inspections using drone platforms (DJI or equivalent) for infrastructure and site assessments
- Deploy and interpret hydrographic and geophysical survey systems (multibeam, side-scan sonar, magnetometers)
- Use survey-grade GPS systems such asTrimble, Zypher,Applanix or underwater USBL systems to georefrernece data
- Assist in data processing, interpretation, and generation of professional inspection deliverables (AutoCAD, QGIS, PDF reports)
- Troubleshoot and maintain robotic systems, sonar units, and integrated sensors
- Work closely with project managers, divers, and clients to ensure quality and accuracy of inspections
- Travel to project sites, sometimes in remote regions, for periods of up to 1–2 weeks at a time
- Maintain equipment readiness, job documentation, and calibration records
Qualifications
- Minimum 3 years of experience operating ROVs, crawlers, drones, or USVs in field settings
- Strong computer literacy and technical troubleshooting skills
- Experience with hydrographic and geophysical surveys, sonar interpretation, and mapping software
- Familiarity with Trimble, Applanix, RTK, or USBL underwater GPS systems
- Competency in generating client deliverables (QGIS, AutoCAD, or equivalent)
- Mechanical aptitude with electronics, cabling, sensors, and remote platforms
- Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel
- Bonus assets:
- Drone Pilot Certificate (Advanced RPAS or Basic UAV)
- Experience in photogrammetry or 3D modeling
- Marine or construction inspection background
- CSA/Confined Space Certification
What We Offer
- Competitive hourly rate based on experience
- Daily field premiums and full travel coverage (flights, accommodations, per diem)
- Use of advanced robotics and inspection systems in high-profile national projects
- Opportunity for advancement into ROV Team Lead or Survey Manager roles
- Supportive, safety-first culture with in-house training and certification support
- Work in a dynamic, fast-growing company on the leading edge of underwater technology
How to Apply
Submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your experience with ROVs, GPS-integrated systems, and any past aquatic or aerial inspection work. Please include any relevant certifications and your availability to travel.
Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 12 months
Pay: $40.00-$75.00 per hour
Expected hours: 25 – 84 per week
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Commuter benefits
- Company car
- Company events
- Disability insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible schedule
- Housing allowance
- Language training provided
- Mileage reimbursement
- On-site childcare
- On-site gym
- On-site parking
- Relocation assistance
- Stock options
- Work from home
Work Location: In person
