Junior Engineer, Research & Development

J.D. Irving, Limited; Halifax; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading shipbuilding company in Halifax is seeking a Junior Engineer for their Research & Development team. The role involves designing and executing improvements in ship construction processes and supporting R&D projects. Candidates should have a bachelor's degree in engineering, strong analytical and communication skills, and some experience in manufacturing. This position requires full-time, in-office presence at the Halifax Shipyard.

Qualifications

• 0-4 years of experience in a technical or process-oriented environment, preferably in manufacturing or shipbuilding.
• Experience in running scientific testing.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision and manage multiple priorities.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and improve production processes using scientific and engineering methodologies.
• Support R&D projects from proposal development through execution.
• Manage relationships with external vendors to support project execution.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Stakeholder engagement

Practical knowledge

Knowledge of lean manufacturing

Knowledge of Six Sigma

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field

Interest in achieving Professional Engineers Designation (PEng)

Job description

As a Junior Engineer, Research & Development, you will play a key role in designing, planning, and executing improvements to processes, tools, methods, and equipment to support high-quality, efficient operations in ship construction, delivery, and repair. This role includes working on research and development (R&D) initiatives to drive innovation and continuous improvement across shipbuilding operations.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a team driving innovation and excellence in shipbuilding.
• Lead impactful R&D projects that shape the future of marine manufacturing.
• Work in a dynamic environment with opportunities for professional growth.
• Contribute to projects that have a lasting impact on national defense and maritime operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, or a related field.
• Currently pursuing or interest in achieving Professional Engineers Designation (PEng).
• 0-4 years of experience in a technical or process-oriented environment, preferably in manufacturing or shipbuilding.
• Practical knowledge gained through hands-on experience, mentorship, and coaching.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in root cause analysis and solution testing.
• Effective communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Experience in shipbuilding or heavy manufacturing environments.
• Experience in running scientific testing.
• Knowledge of change management principles and tools.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision and manage multiple priorities.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.

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 at the Halifax Shipyard.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and improve production processes using scientific and engineering methodologies.
• Support R&D projects from proposal development through execution and evaluation.
• Build project proposals that define scope, objectives, timelines, budgets, and resource needs.
• Test equipment performance and conduct pilot projects to validate new technologies.
• Manage relationships with external vendors and suppliers to support project execution and technical evaluations.
• Apply lean, Six Sigma, and other industrial engineering principles to optimize workflows.
• Use formal project management tools to plan, monitor, and report on complex projects.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to influence change using structured change management approaches.
• Work independently under general supervision to deliver results within an assigned scope.