Naval Service Recruit
Who we want
Naval Service Recruits go on to form the backbone of the Irish Naval Service. Recruit training is 18 weeks in duration and is designed to develop a physically fit, disciplined and motivated person using basic military and naval skills in order to prepare them for further training in the Service. Recruits are instilled with the Naval Service ethos and the values of Courage, Respect, Integrity and Loyalty. On successful completion of the Recruit course, the Recruit is advanced to the training rank of Ordinary Rating (equivalent of 2 Star private in the Army). The Naval Service has four Branches consisting of Seaman's, Communications, Mechanicians and Supplies. The Ordinary Rate commences their chosen Branch training giving them the specialised skills required to fulfill their role at sea and ashore. After this initial specialisation training (up to 12 weeks), the Ordinary Rate will proceed to sea and take up an appointment onboard one of our ships for a two year rotation. Life at sea is at all times varied. The Ordinary Rate regardless of Branch is a much valued member of the ships crew. As well as Branch duties, he/she will be called on to complete other duties such as general maintenance, boat work, Damage Control/Firefighting. He/she may also be a member of a Naval Boarding team during Drug Interdiction Operations. If you are interested in a life at sea, as part of a dynamic, professional and highly motivated team, then the Naval Service is for you.
Qualifications
No formal education qualifications are required to join the Irish Defence Forces as a recruit.
Age Limitations
The Upper Age Limit for Recruits is 26 years of age.
Induction
Recruit Competitions are held in the Naval Service as required and are the only way to join the Naval Service to become an Ordinary Seaman. Candidates undergo fitness testing, an interview and a medical exam. The Induction Process will determine if you have the potential to become an Ordinary Seaman in the Naval Service.
Training
The Recruit Training Syllabus is designed to produce a physically fit, disciplined and motivated Ordinary Seaman with basic military skills. Naval Recruit training is foundation military training. It is twenty weeks in duration. It is followed by Trained Specialist Training courses. On successful completion of training recruits are assigned to a branch and a vessel of the Naval Servise. Do you have what it takes to complete Naval Service Recruit Training?
Career Progression
Newly qualified Ordinary Seamen are encouraged to put themselves forward for further courses in the Naval Service. These courses may enable the Seaman to specialise in certain areas of the Navy and progress towards promotion. Meet some of the men and women who have come through recruit training as they reflect on Life in the Naval Service.
Pay
Phone, car, mortgage… everyone has bills to pay. Have a look at the Pay Scales for Naval Service Recruits.
Read more about the Naval Service
