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

Responsibilities

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.

Qualifications

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.

About Us

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.

About The Team

We are Fleetway! We believe Canada’s maritime fleets need to be reliable and fit for purpose, with crews that are fully trained and supported. We work as a trusted technical partner during design, construction, in-service, and end of life. We are proud to deliver quality professional technical services including Engineering, Integrated Logistics Support, Technical Editing, Configuration Management, Project Management, Training, Technical Translation, and Marine Technical Services.

Over the past 40+ years, we have built an outstanding team of people and partners, invested in the tools, and earned an exemplary track record servicing our customers. Everything we do is aimed at developing our people and improving our use of innovation to be the leading professional services provider in the marine industry. We are proud to have earned national recognition as a Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada’s Top Employer.

All successful applicants must meet requirements for Canadian Controlled Goods Program (CGP), and Canadian Government Security Clearance.

What We Offer:

The successful candidate will receive a starting salary based on their applicable experience and demonstrated knowledge, skill, and abilities. Additionally, we offer the following:

We are regularly adding new departments, positions, and functions within Fleetway, as such, we can offer you growth and development opportunities for future career advancement
We provide direct support to your training and development plans, including support towards your professional certifications, memberships, or designations
Flexible work hours (with core hours)
We have Mental Health first aid trained staff in all offices
A flexible medical, dental, and vision plan, with an enhanced focus on mental health and wellness
Ability to save for your future with our company matching RRSP program
15-week maternity leave top-up program
Employee & Family Assistance Program
Annual health & wellness reimbursements
Business casual work environment, with casual Fridays
A slick company jacket that will definitely make you the envy of your friends

Fleetway Inc.

Open Positions

Seamanship Specialist