Army Current Career Options
Explore a variety of roles in the Irish Army, from combat positions to specialist support, offering opportunities to serve, develop skills, and build a career.
The Defence Forces are now accepting applications for General Service in both the Army and Naval Service.
We live in a world of diversity; the Defence Forces require men and women from all backgrounds that possess a strong sense of duty, enjoy working as part of a team, and are looking for a rewarding yet challenging career.
Army applicants must be at least 18 years old and under the age of 25 years of age on the closing date for applications.
Naval Service applicants must be at least 18 years old and under the age of 27 years of age on the closing date for applications.
When making an application for General Service Recruitment applicants should be aware that the areas of responsibility that applicants apply to are as follows:
1 Brigade - Cork Interview Centre
Cork, Carlow, Clare, Galway, Kerry, Kilkenny, Laois, Limerick, Offaly, Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford
2 Brigade - Dublin / DFTC Curragh Interview Centre
Dublin, Cavan, Donegal, Kildare, Leitrim, Longford, Louth, Mayo, Meath, Monaghan, Roscommon, Sligo, Westmeath and Wicklow.
Where possible we will facilitate applicants to conduct fitness testing & interview at a location closest to their home.
Read more about being an Army Recruit >>
Applications will only be accepted online.
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Direct Entry Motor Technician Fitter T CThe Defence Forces are now accepting applications for Motor Technician Fitters , suitable qualification candidates must hold FAS/SOLAS or equivalent qualification in one of the following:
- Heavy Vehicle Mechanic
- Motor Mechanic
- Construction plant Fitter
- Agricultural Mechanics
- HETAC L7 Agricultural Mechanisation
Applicants must be 18 years and less than 39 years of age on date of application.
Direct Entry Motor Technician Fitter T&C.pdf
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The Defence Forces are looking for ex service personnel who have served in the Irish Permanent Defence Forces , if you meet the requirements and wish to be considered for re-enlistment
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The Defence Forces are looking for officers who have served in the Irish Permanent Defence Forces, if you meet the requirements and wish to be considered for re-joining.
Trainee Chef, Defence Forces
A career as a Trainee Chef in the Irish Defence Forces offers the opportunity to build a recognised culinary career while serving your country. The Defence Forces (Óglaigh na hÉireann) are the combined armed forces of Ireland (Army, Naval Service and Air Corps), dedicated to defending the State, supporting national security, and contributing to international peace and security at home and overseas. Our personnel are trained to the highest standards, operating with discipline, teamwork, and professionalism in a wide range of roles.
Trainee Chefs join the Defence Forces as General Service Recruits. During your initial twelve weeks of Recruit Training, you will develop the core military skills required of all Defence Forces personnel, including discipline, teamwork, fitness, and leadership. This is followed by a further twelve weeks of 2-3 Star training, where you continue to build your military knowledge and experience.
On successful completion of this training, there may be a period of culinary on-the-job work experience before you progress to professional chef training in the Defence Forces School of Catering in McKee Barracks, Dublin. Here you will develop practical culinary skills and gain a QQI Level 5 Major Award, with opportunities for further recognised professional qualifications. You will learn a wide range of culinary skills from our team of highly experienced instructor staff, including the preparation of nutritious, high-quality meals for Defence Forces personnel.
Whilst undergoing these three elements of training, in addition to full pay, you will also receive free meals and accommodation within the barracks. You will also have access to free medical care (dentist, pharmacy, physio etc.) and gym facilities.
Defence Forces Chefs play an important role in supporting operational effectiveness by ensuring personnel are properly nourished during training, daily duties, and deployments. Chefs may serve in barracks and at sea throughout Ireland and can also support Defence Forces personnel on overseas missions.
This career is ideal for motivated individuals who enjoy teamwork, hands-on work, and working in a disciplined, fast-paced environment. It offers a unique opportunity to combine a professional culinary career with the pride and purpose of serving in the Irish Defence Forces.
The restructured Reserve Defence Force RDF (na hÓglaigh Cúltaca) has undergone a reorganisation in tandem with the Permanent Defence Force as part of the “Single Force” concept.
The Naval Service offers a rewarding career with ample chances for personal growth and advancement. There are various entry levels for joining our team. Each approach offers a different career path and differing challenges.
The Air Corps' role is to deliver the air power contribution to the defence and security of the State. We can offer you a wide variety of career paths in military aviation. Whether you are a school leaver or a graduate, we have a role for you.