Principal Engineer, Production Engineering
Company: J.D. Irving, Limited
Role summary
Principal Engineer, Production Engineering is a full-time role at J.D. Irving, Limited in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada (on-site). Posted 2026-10-28. Experience level: 10+.
- Job title
- Principal Engineer, Production Engineering
- Company
- J.D. Irving, Limited
- Location
- Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Work arrangement
- on-site
- Employment type
- full-time
- Category
- Software Engineering
- Experience level
- 10+
- Date posted
- 2026-10-28
If you're a seasoned engineering expert looking to make a lasting impact on large-scale shipbuilding projects, this is a fantastic opportunity to step into a high-level mentorship and strategy role. You'll get to shape the technical direction of a major organization while working alongside some of the best in the industry, all within a company that values long-term leadership and innovation.
Job description
Are you a visionary engineering leader with a passion for innovation in shipbuilding? We are seeking a Principal Engineer to join our Production Engineering team - a role designed for a seasoned professional who thrives in complex, multi-disciplinary environments and is committed to driving operational excellence.
As a Principal Engineer, you will be a recognized authority in your field, shaping strategies, influencing business decisions, and mentoring the next generation of engineering talent. Your expertise will enable the efficient construction, repair, and delivery of world-class vessels.
Responsibilities
Lead Engineering Initiatives: Develop lifting and handling plans, tooling designs, and temporary services engineering for major programs including AOPS, River Class Destroyer, and Ship Repair.
Mentor and Guide: Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers, fostering a culture of learning and growth.
Collaborate Across Teams: Act as a subject matter expert, partnering with Production, Planning, Facilities, Engineering, Scheduling, and Supply Chain.
Shape Build Strategies: Influence methods and processes through expert technical input.
Standardize Excellence: Author and maintain engineering processes and procedures to ensure consistent, high-quality deliverables.
Drive Continuous Improvement: Identify and implement initiatives that enhance efficiency and quality.
Manage Risk: Proactively assess and mitigate risks associated with engineering activities.
Qualifications
Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.) or equivalent; Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) designation required.
Minimum 15 years in shipbuilding, ship design, or related heavy manufacturing.
Deep understanding of maritime regulatory authorities (LR, TC, IMO) and industry standards (ASME, IEEE, ASTM).
Strong knowledge of shipbuilding production, planning, material requirements, and facility/resource capacity.
Hands-on experience with hull, machinery, accommodation piping, electrical outfitting, and/or steel outfitting.
Proficiency in interpreting shipbuilding production drawings, PBOMs, and 3D models.
Able to develop and approve engineered lift plans, jig designs, and supporting calculations.
Due to the nature of work Irving Shipbuilding does, all successful applicants must meet requirements for the Canadian Controlled Goods Program (CGP), Canadian Government Security clearance, and U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
Please note this position requires a full-time, in-office presence.
Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) operates in Eastern Canada (New-Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Québec, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador), as well as in USA. We are a team of 20,000 dedicated employees. At J.D. Irving, Limited, you are part of a dynamic team of professionals who lead with integrity and are passionate about delivering results. With a culture that nurtures talent and creates an inclusive workplace, you can grow your career across our various operating divisions.
We are committed to creating accessible environments for our colleagues, candidates, and customers. Requests for accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent) can be made at any stage of application and employment. We encourage candidates to make their accommodation needs known so that we can provide equitable opportunities.
Worried you do not meet all the requirements? Studies have shown that many applicants apply only to job opportunities when they feel they meet 100% of the criteria. We promote an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated, recognized, and empowered to contribute fully. If you are interested in this position but are worried you did not meet all the requirements, we would encourage you to still apply.
Our recruitment advisors and hiring teams will utilize human screening combined with AI technology to help identify the skills and qualities that matter most to our business, while safeguarding your privacy and using AI responsibly.
We appreciate your interest in our company however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
Irving Shipbuilding is proud to be Canada's National Shipbuilder. Our team is constructing more than 20 modern patrol ships and destroyers for the Royal Canadian Navy and Canadian Coast Guard as part of the largest defence procurement project in Canadian history.
By joining our team of more than 2,400 shipbuilders, you can enjoy a dynamic and exciting career with a company dedicated to your success, development, and safety.
At Irving Shipbuilding, we're making history - why not make it with us? Learn more about careers at Irving Shipbuilding: shipsforcanada.ca/opportunities.
We invite applications from all qualified candidates, including racially visible persons, women in underrepresented roles, persons with disabilities, Indigenous persons, and members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and encourage applicants to self-identify.
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