Senior Health and Safety Specialist

The Senior Health and Safety Specialist supports Production by ensuring safe, efficient operations while maintaining compliance with the Nova Scotia Occupational Health and Safety Act, company policies, and industry best practices. This role participates in investigations, supports employee training, and leads risk assessments and hazard identification. As the gas-free certification subject matter expert, the Senior Specialist ensures proper risk assessment, hazard control, and clear communication for confined space and hot work activities prior to work commencing.

• Coach and mentor employees and subcontractors; promote continuous development and safety leadership.
• Participate in workplace investigations and JOHSC meetings.
• Deliver new hire safety orientations and support employee training.
• Conduct inspections to identify and address health and safety risks.
• Maintain and update HSE policies to ensure regulatory compliance.
• Support development of OHS training programs and awareness initiatives.
• Lead gas testing and certification for confined space and hot work, including risk assessments, hazard identification, and control verification.
• Calibrate and maintain atmospheric testing equipment.

• Post secondary OHS diploma or certification.
  • A combination of knowledge and experience would also be considered.
  • Ability to obtain National Construction Safety Officer (NCSO) designation (or equivalent), Authorized Gas Free Testing qualification, First Aid/CPR/AED certifications, and WHMIS training and other relevant certifications.
• 5 to 8+ years of demonstrated success in a safety role in an industrial environment.
• 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.
• Strong communication skills and ability to influence front line workers and supervisors. 

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.

Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) operates in Eastern Canada (New-Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Québec, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador), as well as in USA. We 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.

Our recruitment advisors and hiring teams will utilize human screening combined with AI technology to help identify the skills and qualities that matter most to our business, while safeguarding your privacy and using AI responsibly.

We appreciate your interest in our company however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.