Quality Systems Specialist

Irving Shipbuilding; Dartmouth; On-site; CAD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Irving Shipbuilding is seeking a Systems Specialist to ensure effective quality management systems aligned with ISO standards. The role includes maintaining documentation, conducting audits, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement. Candidates should have relevant educational qualifications and experience in quality systems.

Qualifications

• 2-5 years of experience in quality systems or process improvement.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001:2015.
• Exposure to Lean or Six Sigma methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and improve quality management systems.
• Conduct process audits to ensure compliance.
• Collaborate with teams for continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving techniques

Quality documentation development

Collaboration

Education

Diploma or bachelor's degree

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

Quality Management is responsible for ensuring the effectiveness, compliance, and continuous improvement of our Quality Management Systems (QMS) in alignment with ISO 9001:2015 standards. This role supports and educates business units to ensure quality processes are consistently applied, effectively documented, and continuously improved.

In addition to its strategic and collaborative responsibilities, this position also carries an administrative component, including the management of system workflows, audit documentation, and quality records. The Systems Specialist acts as a key liaison between quality systems and operational teams, driving audit readiness, process integrity, and system excellence across the organization.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Maintain and improve process management systems, including workflow administration and system documentation.
• Develop and maintain quality documentation such as work instructions, templates, and process guides to ensure clarity and compliance.
• Administer and enhance defect management systems (e.g., NCR, CAR), including oversight by completing concurrence and verification stages.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for continuous improvement and support strategic quality initiatives.
• Design, deliver, and support training and onboarding programs for internal teams and business users on quality systems and processes.
• Conduct process audits (Audit Lites) and process confirmations to ensure compliance with ISO 9001:2015 and internal standards.
• Support the development, tracking, and communication of team KPIs and quality performance metrics.
• Coordinate and support external audits by managing logistics, communications, and post-audit actions.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Diploma or bachelor's degree.
• 2-5 years of relevant experience in quality systems, process improvement, or a similar role.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001:2015 is considered an asset.
• Exposure to or certification in Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies is an advantage.
• Change management and/or PMP is an asset.
• Ability to analyze and improve business processes using structured problem-solving techniques.
• Training or facilitation experience is an asset.
• Proficiency in documentation development, workflow administration, and system maintenance.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities, with the capacity to manage multiple priorities.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate, influence, and build relationships across departments.
• Stakeholder management skills, including the ability to educate and support business users in adopting quality practices.

Note: Due to the nature of work at Irving Shipbuilding, 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).
This position requires a full-time, in-office presence.

ABOUT US

Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) has operations in Canada and the United States and employs 20,000 dedicated professionals. At JDI, you are part of a dynamic team that leads with integrity and is passionate about delivering results. We foster a culture that nurtures talent and promotes an inclusive workplace, supporting your career growth across various divisions.

We are committed to creating accessible environments for our colleagues, candidates, and customers. Requests for accommodation due to disability can be made at any stage of application and employment. We encourage candidates to share their accommodation needs to ensure equitable opportunities.

Worried you do not meet all the requirements? Studies show many applicants apply only when they meet 100% of the criteria. We promote an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated, recognized, and empowered to contribute fully. If interested but unsure, we still encourage you to apply.

We appreciate your interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

ABOUT THE TEAM

Irving Shipbuilding is Canada's National Shipbuilder, constructing over 20 patrol ships and destroyers for the Royal Canadian Navy and Canadian Coast Guard as part of the largest defense procurement project in Canadian history.

Join our team of over 2,400 shipbuilders and enjoy a dynamic, exciting career dedicated to your success, development, and safety.

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. We encourage self-identification.