Job Description

Join Fleetway’s Transition to Service department and help shape the future of Canada’s Navy. We are hiring a Seamanship Specialist to provide expert guidance on ship operations and maintenance, including equipment for small boat operations, anchoring, rigging, life-saving gear, and small arms. You will also advise on general watchkeeping duties both in port and at sea.

Your work will help ensure ships and their systems meet high safety standards while reducing risks to people, equipment, and the environment. You will develop clear criteria, gather evidence, and make recommendations for certifications related to seamanship for the River-class Destroyer (RCD) project.

As part of Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy, you’ll work in a dynamic environment that values flexibility, innovation, and collaboration. You will partner with internal teams and external stakeholders, including the Department of National Defence (DND), the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN), and industry leaders such as BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin, contributing to the safe and sustainable operation of the fleet while gaining hands-on experience in large-scale marine projects.

We're committed to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Fleetway is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, including those from underrepresented groups, and we strive to create an environment where everyone feels respected, supported, and empowered to thrive.

We encourage applicants to self-identify if they belong to an underrepresented group, as part of our commitment to equitable hiring practices and fostering a truly inclusive workforce.

If you require accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know—we're happy to help

• Lead certification activities for seamanship and navigation by collecting and analyzing evidence, reviewing designs, and coordinating with the River-class Destroyer (RCD) certification team to resolve issues and achieve compliance.
• Provide safety engineering expertise to working groups and integrated product teams, supporting the development, documentation, and evaluation of deliverables related to safety and certification. Ensure accuracy and compliance with standards such as Transport Canada and Lloyd’s.
• Develop and maintain certification documentation, including the Certification Plan and Certification Compliance Matrix for ship compartments and systems.
• Identify hazards and assess risks, recommending design or procedural changes to reduce risk and improve safety.
• Offer technical oversight for the seamanship body of evidence presented to regulatory authorities, ensuring clarity and completeness.

Education & Experience

• High school diploma required; additional technical or marine-related training is considered an asset.
• Experience in:
  • Conducting, coordinating, and managing seamanship evolutions and safe navigation.
  • Applying military safety standards (e.g., MIL-Std 882E, Def Stan) in operational environments.

Working Conditions

• 100% in-office during initial phases when ship compartments are fabricated and fitted with equipment.
• Later, a blend of office and on-board work as required to support operational tasks.
• Occasional travel to vendor or industry partner sites.

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.