Naval Architecture Student

Irving Shipbuilding; Dartmouth; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Canadian shipbuilder in Dartmouth seeks a Naval Architecture co-op student to contribute to ship production and design. This role offers an opportunity to tackle real engineering challenges, collaborate with professionals, and gain valuable hands-on experience. Successful candidates will be currently enrolled in a Naval Architecture program and possess strong organizational and communication skills. Join a company dedicated to your success and become part of history in shipbuilding.

Benefits

Financial support for co-op program fees up to $1,000

Mentorship and hands-on experience

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a Naval Architecture program.
• 0–2 years of relevant experience (co-op, internship, or volunteer work welcome).
• Proficient in the Microsoft Office Suite and open to learning new tools and technologies.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with industry leaders and talented professionals.
• Tackle real engineering challenges during active ship builds.
• Help ensure production stays on track.

Skills

Strong communication

Interpersonal skills

Problem-solving abilities

Highly organized

Fast learner

Education

Currently enrolled in a Naval Architecture program

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

Are you ready to make waves in your career? Join us as a Naval Architecture co‑op student and become part of a team that's shaping the future of Canadian shipbuilding. This is more than just a placement—it's your chance to contribute to meaningful projects, support our cutting‑edge new construction programs, and gain hands‑on experience that matters.

As a valued member of our team, you'll:

• Collaborate with industry leaders and talented professionals.
• Build lasting connections with fellow co‑op students across ISI.
• Get a real‑world preview of what a career at Irving Shipbuilding looks like—with potential for future full‑time opportunities in our rapidly growing organization.

We're proud to support our student hires—not just with mentorship and experience, but financially too. Irving Shipbuilding will cover your co‑op program fees up to $1,000.

RESPONSIBILITIES

As a Naval Architecture co‑op student at Irving Shipbuilding, you won't be stuck on the sidelines—you'll be right in the action. Your work will directly support ship production and design, giving you a front‑row seat to one of Canada’s most advanced industrial projects.

Here's a snapshot of what your role could include:

• Tackle real engineering challenges alongside our production crew during active ship builds.
• Work with internal and external stakeholders to evaluate and refine ship design elements.
• Help ensure production stays on track by assisting with schedule coordination and technical support.
• Participate in identifying, tracking, and resolving engineering and production issues.
• Propose and contribute to process improvement initiatives that drive efficiency and innovation.

Due to the nature of the 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.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Currently enrolled in a Naval Architecture program.
• 0–2 years of relevant experience (co‑op, internship, or volunteer work welcome.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and problem‑solving abilities.
• Proficient in the Microsoft Office Suite and open to learning new tools and technologies.
• Highly organized, able to manage multiple tasks with shifting priorities.
• A fast learner and effective problem solver who thrives in dynamic environments.

ABOUT US

Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) has operations in Canada and the United States and is 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 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.