Careers
Learn more about how Irving
Shipbuilding is the place for you.
Working at Irving Shipbuilding: A Generational Opportunity
Through a competitive bidding process, Irving Shipbuilding was selected by the Canadian government to build Canada’s next generation of navy ships. These are the largest ships in the Navy. They offer a whole new level of state-of-the-art operational capability and protection for Canada's sailors at home and abroad.
We consider it an honour and a privilege to build this new fleet, and we’re looking for people who feel the same way.
That’s why we’re actively recruiting the best shipbuilding talent and training new people to achieve our high standards of excellence.
This is a generational opportunity – a chance for our people to have an entire career serving this noble purpose. At Irving Shipbuilding, we’re making history – why not make it with us?
Metal Fabricator
Metal Fabricators perform structural metal or steel work to build and repair our naval ships. Responsible for reading drawings, blueprints, and procedures to execute on fabrication, assembly, and plate fitting to form the ship structures. Metal Fabricators measure, cut, grind, fit, align, and tack weld parts on interior structures, hatches, doors, bulkheads, and all other steel work within the ship. Selection of proper weld filler material, operation of tools, and manual or semi-automatic equipment is required.
Spray Painters
Our Industrial Spray Painters perform end-to-end spray-painting of our naval ships. Starting with surface preparing for coating application, selecting and using the appropriate industrial marine coatings as well as having the knowledge to be able to troubleshoot and use a variety spray-painting related equipment to ensure a smooth application that aligns to our industry standards and customer requirements.
Procurement Specialist
Our Supply Chain department builds more than ships. We build partnerships, innovation and a legacy that will span decades. Our Senior Procurement Specialists are critical in securing equipment and services to build 15 Canadian Surface Combatants. By leading major procurement activities, you’ll play a direct role in building Canada’s future fleet. Your efforts will grow industry with an anticipated $9.8B increase in GDP from 2013-2024. Come join a team that is at the forefront of shipbuilding.
Ships for Canada
To millions of people at home and abroad, Canada is seen as a beacon of freedom, opportunity, and diversity. To defend this great nation, the brave people of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) deserve only the finest vessels to protect our shores. Those are the ships Irving Shipbuilding is building right now at our world-class Halifax facilities.
The Canadian Surface Combatants (CSCs) represent state-of-the-art naval technology that places us shoulder-to-shoulder with our NORAD and NATO allies and other partner nations. The selection of a fleet of single-class ships allows us to build with greater efficiency, keeping the RCN operating at peak performance defending Canada’s interests at home and around the world.
We’re looking for Veterans
The Canadian Armed Forces are known around the world for their teamwork, leadership, and expertise. That’s why we are committed to hiring 100 CAF veterans to join our team. Are you one of them?
Join us and help to build and maintain the current and future Royal Canadian Navy fleet.
I’m a veteran and looking to join Irving Shipbuilding - Learn More2,800 TONS
OF STRUCTURAL STEEL
A single ship can require as much as 2,800 tons of structural steel.
Our People
Tour North America’s most modern and largest under-roof shipbuilding facility
Our promise to construct the finest ships for Canada’s navy requires a facility equal to the challenge.
Our Halifax Shipyard is one of the largest modern indoor shipbuilding facilities in North America. Our Assembly Hall is 4 football fields long and over 12 stories high. Inside, our skilled and dedicated teams utilize leading edge techniques and technology in a safe, world-class environment. Come on, let’s tour the facility together.
Our Employee Value Propositions
Build a long-term, stable career with opportunities for development at Canada’s National Shipbuilder
Work on the largest defence project in Canadian history
Be a part of a great family-run Canadian company
Receive a competitive compensation and benefits package
Diversity and Inclusion
Whether it’s creating programs to draw Indigenous peoples or outreach to bring more women into the industry, working with our staff and 2SLGBTQ+ agencies or providing pathways for Black Canadians, Irving Shipbuilding believes in an inclusive workplace where all feel welcome.
Benefits and Total Rewards
Irving Shipbuilding cares for the wellbeing of our employees and is proud to offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including but not limited to:
- Medical, dental, and vision plan
- Employee & Family Assistance Programs
- RRSP matching program
- Health & Wellness reimbursements
- Opportunities to take part in job related training and development
- Growth and progression opportunities within Irving Shipbuilding and the larger network of the J.D. Irving group of companies