The Health and Safety Specialist plays a vital role in ensuring safe and efficient production operations by driving compliance with the Nova Scotia Occupational Health and Safety Act, ISI policies, and industry best practices. This position leads risk assessments, hazard identification, and workplace investigations while educating employees to foster a strong safety culture. Acting as the subject matter expert for gas-free certification, the specialist oversees confined space and hot work protocols, ensuring all hazards are assessed, controlled, and clearly communicated before work begins—because safety isn’t just a priority, it’s our foundation.

• Mentor all personnel, including subcontractors, and model positive behaviors to support professional development and competency within the HSE team.

• Review and update HSE policies and procedures to align with provincial regulations and CSA standards.

• Conduct new hire orientations, develop training programs, and educate employees on OHS practices.

• Perform focused safety inspections across facilities, participate in workplace investigations, and attend JOHSC meetings.

• Act as the subject matter expert for gas testing operations, confined space entries, and hot work certifications. Complete risk assessments, hazard identification, and ensure all mitigations are in place before work begins.

• Calibrate and maintain gas monitoring instruments to ensure accurate atmospheric testing.

• Post Secondary OHS Diploma or certification. A combination of knowledge and experience would also be considered.

• Minimum of 5 to 8 years of demonstrated success in a safety role in an industrial environment.

• Ability to obtain National Construction Safety Officer (NCSO) designation (or equivalent), Authorized Gas Free Testing qualification, First Aid/CPR/AED certifications, and WHMIS training & certifications.

• Ability to facilitate training and conduct effective presentations to provide sound professional advice and direction for health and safety related matters within various levels of the organization.

• Working knowledge of provincial and federal OHS legislation.

• Experience in root cause analysis with keen investigation and analytical skills.

• Proficiency with various Microsoft Office products.

• Ability to communicate with and influence front line workers and supervision.

• Strong communication, interpersonal and organizational skills.

• Availability to work overtime and across various shifts, as required, to support Production and other business priorities.

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.

The successful candidate will be required to complete a standard drug and medical assessment prior to employment.

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.

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.