Job Description

As the Manager, Combat Systems you will play a critical leadership role on the River Class Destroyer (RCD) program. This position is responsible for ensuring combat systems are designed, integrated, and delivered to meet the operational and security requirements of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN).

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to Canada’s naval modernization while working with senior stakeholders and leading multidisciplinary teams in a complex delivery environment.

As Manager, Combat Systems, you will lead the end-to-end delivery of Combat Systems (CS) - from design and integration through testing and accreditation—ensuring solutions are safe, secure, compliant, and delivered on time and within budget. Acting as Control Account Manager (CAM), you will oversee planning, execution, and performance across cost, schedule, scope, and risk.

You will also co-chair the Combat Systems Working Group, representing ISI in key internal and external forums and engaging senior stakeholders across government and industry.

• Make critical decisions to ensure combat systems are safe, secure, environmentally sound, and compliant
• Resolve complex technical issues and design challenges with speed and accountability
• Lead planning and execution of the CS scope, ensuring alignment with budget and schedule targets
• Oversee performance tracking, risk management, and delivery outcomes
• Lead and facilitate Combat Systems Working Group activities
• Collaborate with internal teams (Engineering, Build, Planning, Program) and external partners (PMO, RCN, major subcontractors)
• Identify and assess delivery risks
• Partner with stakeholders to develop mitigation strategies and drive resolution
• Lead, mentor, and manage a multidisciplinary combat systems team
• Foster a high-performance, collaborative environment

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Master’s an asset)
• P.Eng. (or eligibility) and/or PMP considered assets
• 7–10 years’ experience in shipbuilding, naval, or defence programs
• Experience delivering complex combat systems across the full lifecycle
• Strong knowledge of combat system architecture (sensors, weapons, CMS, communications, interfaces)
• Experience in systems engineering (requirements, integration, V&V, configuration, safety, accreditation)
• Proven leadership and stakeholder management experience across government, Navy, and industry
• CAM / EVMS experience considered an asset

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) has operations in Canada and the United States and 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.
We appreciate your interest in our company however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.