Senior Project Manager, Ship Repair

J.D. Irving, Limited; Halifax; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading shipbuilding firm is seeking a Senior Project Manager to lead critical ship repair initiatives in Halifax. You will manage scope, schedule, cost, and risk, collaborating with internal teams and external partners. The ideal candidate has over 10 years of experience in shipbuilding or warship operations and holds a relevant degree, with project management certification preferred. This full-time position requires an office presence at the Halifax Shipyard.

Qualifications

• 10+ years working in shipbuilding or warship operations.
• Formal project management certification (e.g., PMP) preferred.
• Strong grasp of shipbuilding processes.

Responsibilities

• Manage performance of the Ship Repair Program through stakeholder reviews.
• Ensure customer expectations are aligned and executed.
• Accountable for Project Risk Management.

Skills

Project Management

Communication

Leadership

Adaptability

Education

Degree in Engineering or related field

MBA or MASc

Job description

Are you ready to lead high-impact ship repair projects from start to finish? As the Senior Project Manager, you’ll be at the helm of complex initiatives, steering them through the critical pillars of scope, schedule, cost, and risk. You’ll play a key role in shaping and refining the plans, processes, and policies that drive over 2 million production hours of ship repair work.

This role is all about collaboration and innovation—working closely with internal teams and external partners to elevate project delivery and execution. With a sharp focus on strategic goals, you’ll bring the annual operating plan to life and make a lasting impact on the future of ship repair.

Qualifications

• Education: A degree in Engineering or a related technical field—or equivalent experience. An MBA or MASc is a plus.
• Industry Experience: 10+ years working in shipbuilding or warship operations, with a deep understanding of the environment and its challenges.
• Project Management: Ideally, you hold a formal project management certification (e.g., PMP). You’re skilled in managing budgets, risks, stakeholders, change, reporting, and performance metrics.
• Technical & Program Knowledge: Strong grasp of shipbuilding processes and program delivery best practices.
• Communication & Collaboration: You’re a clear communicator and a confident negotiator, able to work effectively with different personalities and teams.
• Adaptability: You thrive in dynamic environments and can navigate unexpected challenges with ease.
• Leadership: You know how to give constructive feedback and coach others to help them grow and succeed.

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

• Manage performance of the Ship Repair Program by leading regular stakeholder reviews (scope, cost, schedule, risk).
• Ensures customer expectations are aligned and executed and manage external communication and reporting at Director level or equivalent.
• Manages critical project communications.
• Accountable for Project Risk Management.
• Change Management: Interfaces with the enterprise to manage change that impacts the Ship Repair Program.
• Identify, develop, and implement a robust program governance structure.
• Accountable for the program execution of the Project Management Plan and Operating Plan.