Established in 2013, Ascension Automation Solutions are experts in the field of industrial robotics with a specialty in robotic manufacturing applications, providing everything from system design to machine commissioning. We tackle any project, including but not limited to custom automation (design and build), machine retrofit, automation integration, and all required maintenance and service. Our team is always up for a challenge — if you can think of it, we can do it.
We are currently looking for an experienced R&D / Vision Engineering Supervisor to lead our Computer Vision Engineering and Product Development teams, with responsibilities spanning Ai-powered machine vision, traditional inspection systems, and broader automation and robotics R&D.
Job description
As the R&D / Vision Engineering Supervisor, you'll take ownership of Ascension's machine vision and AI R&D function — leading a multidisciplinary team of engineers and technical staff while remaining hands-on in the design, development, and deployment of advanced inspection and computer vision systems across our industrial automation projects.
You'll direct the development of AI-powered and traditional inspection tools (CNNs, YOLO, GAN-based dataset augmentation, edge AI deployment), oversee system integration with robotics and automation hardware, and guide the commissioning of real-time machine vision systems on customer sites across North America.
You will also help shape the team's technical roadmap and processes, mentor engineers and supervisors, support business development and customer-facing technical work, and contribute to a wide range of automation and robotics projects — from custom product development to new technology exploration.
The ideal candidate combines strong technical depth in vision systems and machine learning with proven leadership experience, a track record of delivering results, and the ability to manage complex projects and people from concept through commissioning.
Additional support for skills development will be available through training offerings provided by Ascension Automation Solutions after a 90-day probation period.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & Team Development
- Supervise, mentor, and grow a multidisciplinary team of computer vision, R&D, and automation engineers
- Set technical direction and roadmap for machine vision and R&D initiatives
- Coordinate cross-functional collaboration between vision, controls, and mechanical teams
- Plan, track, and report on project timelines, deliverables, budgets, and team capacity
- Support business development, customer engagement, and technical sales for vision and automation projects
Technical Responsibilities
- Design and implement machine vision solutions using traditional and AI-based approaches
- Program in Python using PyTorch, YOLO, and Tkinter for real-time CV/ML systems
- Direct dataset generation, annotation strategy, model training, and architecture optimization
- Build, test, debug, and maintain custom inspection hardware and software
- Train and deploy deep learning models, including edge deployment on resource-constrained devices
- Integrate vision and Ai systems with robotic and automation hardware
- Deploy and commission systems on customer sites (Canada, USA, Mexico)
- Troubleshoot complex integration and vision issues in the field
- Write technical documentation, user instructions, and project reporting
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree (or higher) in Automation, Computer Engineering, Robotics, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field; advanced degree an asset
- Minimum 5 years of experience in machine vision, Ai/ML, or automation/manufacturing engineering
- Proven leadership experience, including direct supervision or management of engineering/technical teams
- Strong experience with Python (PyTorch, YOLO, Tkinter) and deep learning/neural network implementation (CNNs, GANs, object detection)
- Experience with traditional machine vision hardware (Cognex, Keyence, Matrox, etc.)
- Track record of deploying vision or Ai systems into live production/manufacturing environments
- Knowledge of robotics, PLCs, and industrial automation systems
- Familiarity with C#, C++, and system integration is an asset
- Business development, customer-facing, or account management experience is an asset
- Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) or C.E.T. designation is an asset
- Strong communication, documentation, and problem-solving skills
- Willingness to travel up to 25% to project sites across North America
Compensation & Details
Salary: $115,000 – $145,000 CAD/year, plus overtime, site bonus (if applicable), and double-time rates as applicable. Salary will be determined based on skill and experience.
Willingness to travel: Travel and fieldwork throughout Canada and the USA is required (up to 25%).
Work Location: Cambridge main office, project sites
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Experience:
- Machine vision, Ai/ML, or automation engineering: 5 years (required)
- Technical leadership or team supervision: required
- Python (PyTorch, YOLO, & Tkinter): required
- Manufacturing or automation experience: required
Benefits:
Ascension Automation Solutions Ltd. is committed to providing accommodation for candidates with disabilities taking part in all aspects of the recruitment and selection process. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please let us know.
Pay: $115,000.00-$145,000.00 per year
Application question(s):
- Do you have manufacturing or industrial experience?
Education:
- Bachelor's Degree (preferred)
Experience:
- leadership: 2 years (required)
- Engineering: 5 years (required)
Licence/Certification:
Willingness to travel:
Work Location: In person
