Irving Shipbuilding Centre of Excellence Sponsor-a-Student Opportunity

Irving Shipbuilding; Dartmouth; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A shipbuilding organization offers financial support and a 5-week work placement for students in eligible NSCC programs, focusing on diversity and inclusion. This opportunity aims to provide hands-on experience in various departments, supporting students from equity-deserving groups.

Benefits

Tuition support of $4,000

Qualifications

• Open to full‑time and part‑time students from equity‑deserving groups.
• Students enrolled in eligible NSCC business or engineering programs.
• Self-identification as part of an equity‑deserving group is required.

Responsibilities

• Complete a 5‑week work term in various departments.
• Work in areas such as Test & Trials, Finance, Combat Systems, etc.
• Must meet requirements for Canadian Controlled Goods Program.

Education

Final year of studies in eligible NSCC programs

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Irving Shipbuilding Centre of Excellence (CoE) at NSCC is proud to sponsor 11 students from historically underrepresented communities, reinforcing our commitment to supporting NSCC learners and fostering a diverse, inclusive workforce.

This award provides financial support for students continuing their studies in one of the programs listed below and includes an exciting 5-week work placement-a hands‑on opportunity to gain real‑world experience as part of your program requirements.

About Irving Shipbuilding

Irving Shipbuilding is Canada's National Shipbuilder, entrusted with building the next generation of combat vessels for the Royal Canadian Navy under the National Shipbuilding Strategy.

• 6 Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships (AOPS) have already been delivered.
• Construction is underway on two custom AOPS for the Canadian Coast Guard, followed by the larger River‑class destroyers.
• Over $12 billion in spending commitments through 2026, supporting 678 organizations across Canada.
• A team of 2,400 shipbuilders based in Halifax, NS‑including the largest group of apprentices in Atlantic Canada.

About the Centre of Excellence

The Irving Shipbuilding Centre of Excellence at NSCC was created to develop the skills needed for careers in the shipbuilding and marine sectors. Through initiatives like Pathways to Shipbuilding, Techsploration, student bursaries, and other programs, we strive to provide equitable access to opportunities for underrepresented communities.

Ready to launch your career and make an impact? This is your chance to gain valuable experience, connect with industry leaders, and help shape the future of Canada's shipbuilding industry.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• The responsibilities of each available role will vary across departments depending on school program and interests of the applicant.
• Some areas of the business you could work in during your term include Test & Trials, Finance, Combat Systems, Field Services, Health and Safety, and Facilities.
• Recipients must complete a 5‑week work term.
• The terms and compensation for this work experience will be coordinated between Irving Shipbuilding and the recipient.

QUALIFICATIONS

This opportunity is open to full‑time and part‑time students who have self‑identified as being a part of an equity‑deserving group currently enrolled in their final year of studies in eligible NSCC programs at Akerley, IT, Ivany, or eCampus (HRM residents only) campuses.

Eligible Programs:

• Business Administration
• Electrical Engineering Technology
• Mechanical Engineering Technology
• Occupational Health and Safety

Application Assessment Criteria

• Demonstrated commitment and interest in your program and a future career with Irving Shipbuilding.
• Good academic standing.
• Brings a positive attitude and willingness to learn each day.
• Ability to work well in a team environment.
• Punctuality, accountability and consistency in all work tasks.
• Candidate must self‑identify as being a part of an equity‑deserving group.
• 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 opportunity requires a full‑time, in‑office presence at one of our four work locations.
• For roles based in a safety‑sensitive area, a standard drug and medical test must be completed.

Award Details

• Total Value: $4,000 in tuition support
• 50% ($2,000) issued upon selection to NSCC to cover first tuition payment.
• Remaining 50% ($2,000) issued upon successful completion of a 5‑week work term to NSCC to cover remaining balance.

We thank all those that apply, however only those moving forward will be contacted.

Posting Deadline

January 2, 2026

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

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.