Industrial Engineering, Research and Development Student/Co-op - Fall 2026

JOB DESCRIPTION
As a Student, Research & Development, you will play a 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.
Irving Shipbuilding will also cover up to $1000 of your co-op fees.
RESPONSIBILITIES

• Analyze and improve production processes using scientific and engineering methodologies.
• Support R&D projects from proposal development through execution and evaluation.
• Help build project proposals that define scope, objectives, timelines, budgets, and resource needs.
• Help test equipment performance and support pilot projects to validate new technologies.
• 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.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Enrolled in Bachelor of Engineering (B. Eng.) 4-year degree program or equivalent.
• 0-2 years' experience.
• Analytical problem solving and data analysis skills.
• Verbal and written communication with internal and external stakeholders, with the ability to engage employees at most levels of the organization.
• Cross-functional problem solving from technical & business perspective.
• Able to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast paced, dynamic environment.
• Support facilitation of workshops and business updates.

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.
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.