Graduate and Apprenticeship Opportunities

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Graduate and Apprenticeship Opportunities


Engineering Graduate Development Programme

OPW Engineering Services provides a range of services across the spectrum of engineering disciplines to Government bodies, academic institutions, private sector professionals and the general public.

This programme is an opportunity for recently graduated engineers to gain valuable engineering work experience under a temporary two-year contract. The Graduate Development Programme covers the following disciplines;

  • Mechanical & Electrical Engineering
  • Civil & Structural Engineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering Field Services
  • Fire & Security


Become a skilled apprentice with the OPW. Apprentices come from a wide range of backgrounds and skill sets. For some, it is the opportunity to change careers; for others, it is the beginning of a life of craft mastery. Ireland’s rich archaeological, built and cultural heritage creates a need for a broad mix of conservation skills. To meet this need, the OPW run a 4-year apprenticeship programme in a wide range of areas, such as the following:

  • Craft Stonemason and Stonecutter in National Monuments Depots, Nationwide
  • Craft Carpenter and Joiner in National Monuments Depots, Nationwide
  • Craft Carpenter and Joiner in Building Maintenance Service, Dublin
  • Craft Wood Manufacturer and Finisher, Furniture Branch, Dublin
  • Craft Construction Plant Fitter, Drainage Divisions, Nationwide
  • Craft Metal Fabricator, Central Engineering Works, Dublin

Please note this is not an exhaustive list.

Apprenticeship training comprises the following:

  • on-the-job training on location
  • off-the-job day or block release training at a SOLAS Training Centre, an Institute of Technology, or a College of Further Education.

OPW is committed to providing apprenticeships across a wide range of skills and these positions will be advertised on our website from time to time. Applications for apprenticeships will only be accepted when a specific apprenticeship is advertised.

If you are interested in becoming an apprentice, visit the Solas website to learn more.

For a full list of competitions currently advertised by the Office of Public Works, please see Current Vacancies .

Apprenticeship in the Craft of Carpentry & Joinery

The Office of Public Works (OPW) is offering an Apprenticeship in the Craft of Carpentry and Joinery in the Office of Public Works, National Monuments Depot, Newtown, Trim, Co. Meath C15 K8V0.

Candidate Information - Apprenticeship in Carpentry and Joinery, Trim
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Application Form - Apprenticeship in Carpentry and Joinery, Trim
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Closing Date is 5:30pm Thursday 23rd April 2026

Civil Engineering Technician Apprenticeship in the Office of Public Works - Ballina, Co. Mayo

Are you interested in starting a career in Engineering and being actively involved in exciting Flood Risk Management projects that will have a real impact and help improve the lives of others? Why not consider a 2-year Civil Engineering Technician Apprenticeship with the Office of Public Works?

Candidate Information Notice - Civil Engineering Technician Apprenticeship
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Application Form - Civil Engineering Technician Apprenticeship
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Closing Date is 5.30pm Monday 11th May 2026

Property Advisory Services Graduate Development Programme 2026

Are you interested in starting a career in Property Advisory Services and being actively involved in exciting projects that will have a real impact and help improve the lives of others?

Why not consider joining our 2-year Graduate Development Programme with the Office of Public Works. This opportunity gives you the chance to get recognised training alongside practical hands-on experience working for the Office of Public Works delivering a proactive and whole of Government approach in managing the Governments estate portfolio.

Candidate Information Notice - Property Advisory Services Graduate Development Programme
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Application Form - Property Advisory Services Graduate Development Programme
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Closing Date is 5.30pm on Monday 11 May 2026

National Botanic Gardens Horticultural Graduate Development Programme 2026

The National Botanic Gardens (NBG) is offering a number of paid positions from September 2026 for recently graduated horticulturists. The positions are for 12 months and will be a blend of practical work in the gardens and comprehensive tuition in botanical and horticultural topics once a week. The purpose of the programme is to enhance your graduate qualification with in-depth experience and training in heritage garden management and plant collection management.

Candidate Information Notice - Horticultural Graduate Development Programme
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Application Form - Horticultural Graduate Development Programme
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Closing Date is 5:30pm Monday 11 May 2026

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