Production Supervisor, Paint & Services

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

Job summary

A leading shipbuilder company in Halifax, Canada is seeking a Production Supervisor to lead multi-disciplinary crews and ensure safety and production excellence within the shipyard. Candidates should have a Technical Diploma and at least 5 years of supervisory experience. This opportunity allows you to make a tangible difference in a fast-paced environment, supporting continuous improvement and accountability on the shop floor.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of supervisory experience (2+ in production) or 6+ years of trade experience in shipbuilding, defense, or manufacturing.
• Proven ability to lead in shipyard and client-embedded environments.
• Familiarity with industrial marine construction and repair practices.

Responsibilities

• Champion a strong safety culture by enforcing HSE policies.
• Lead and manage crews to meet production schedules and quality standards.
• Monitor and drive performance, ensuring timely resolution of defects.

Skills

Leadership skills

Time management

Conflict resolution

Communication skills

Emotional intelligence

Education

Technical Diploma or equivalent

Relevant trade certifications (NACE, CWB)

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

Are you ready to lead from the front in one of Canada's most exciting industrial environments? As a Production Supervisor, Paint & Services, you'll take charge of high-performing, multi-disciplinary unionized crews across shipyard and naval dockyard settings. You'll be the driving force behind safety, quality, and production excellence‑delivering critical outcomes that directly impact customer satisfaction and company success. This is your opportunity to lead with purpose, solve complex challenges, and make a tangible difference every day. If you thrive in fast-paced, hands‑on environments and are passionate about leading teams to success, we want to hear from you.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Champion a strong safety culture by enforcing HSE policies and ensuring all work begins with a DPS and Safe Start.
• Lead and manage crews to meet production schedules, quality standards, and project milestones.
• Monitor and drive performance, ensuring timely resolution of defects and adherence to trade norms.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders, providing updates on progress, risks, and metrics.
• Oversee accurate timekeeping and address noncompliance issues promptly.
• Support continuous improvement by identifying and implementing process enhancements.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to influence build and repair strategies.
• Ensure full accountability for crew output, safety, and adherence to company values.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Technical Diploma, Red Seal, or equivalent; relevant trade certifications (e.g., NACE, CWB) preferred.
• 5+ years of supervisory experience (2+ in production), or 6+ years of trade experience in shipbuilding, defense, or manufacturing.
• Strong leadership, time management, and conflict resolution skills.
• Proven ability to lead in both shipyard and client‑embedded environments.
• Familiarity with industrial marine construction and repair practices.
• Excellent communication and emotional intelligence.
• Demonstrated ability to drive results and manage change effectively.
• Commitment to continuous learning and personal development.

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.