The Local Government Ireland Graduate Planner Programme offers graduate planners a rewarding and impactful career in one of Ireland’s 31 city or county councils.
As a graduate planner in a city or county council, you’ll be part of a dynamic, supportive and forward-thinking team that’s dedicated to shaping our towns, cities and rural areas.
You’ll get the opportunity to work on innovative projects that positively influence the built environment, support local economies, and enhance the quality of life of local communities.
What we’re looking for:
- Recent graduates and students who are about to graduate with a minimum Honours Degree in Planning (Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications)
- Passion for shaping communities and tackling town planning challenges and a collaborative mindset
- Strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills
Benefits:
- Starting salary of €38,956 with annual increments
- 24 days annual leave per year
- Flexible work arrangements
- Comprehensive mentoring and structured development programme for career growth in Local Government
- Supportive work environment with a focus on well-being
Why Local Government?
As a Graduate Planner in a Local Authority, you have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the future development of our communities. While furthering your career as a professional planner.
What does a City or County Council Planning Department do?
The planning department within Local Authorities regulate and manage development within their county boundaries. They are responsible for building sustainable communities, creating detailed plans that act as a framework to guide future development, aswell as providing expert planning advice, processing planning applications, and enforcing regulations to ensure sustainable growth in our cities and towns
Which Local Authorities will I be able to apply for?
All 31 City or County Councils will be seeking to employer a Graduate Planner in 2025. Details of where each of the vacant Graduate Planner posts will be will be detailed in the online application process.
Will I receive training whilst in employment?
We want to make sure you realise your full potential. An integral part of the programme is investment in learning and development opportunities through a specific graduate development programme.
So, as well as getting a wide range of on-the-job experience that will allow you to build knowledge, competencies and skills, you will be provided with a development programme designed to hone your skills and prepare you for a successful career in planning. You will receive training in planning fundamentals tailored specifically to the requirements of local authority planners and participate in workshops that cover all aspects of urban planning and development.
You will also benefit from a comprehensive mentoring programme, where experienced planners will guide and support you throughout your journey, developing your professional skills.
Eligibility Criteria:
To apply, you will need a minimum Honours Degree in Planning (Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications or higher). If you are a final year student in a level 8 honours degree in Planning course and due to complete your studies this year you will be able to apply but you will be required to provide proof of having achieved a honours degree before employment can commence.
Non-EU/EEA Applicants:
If you are a non-EU/EEA Citizen interested in applying, you will need a valid employment permit for the length of your contract or a valid visa stamp that allows you to start employment while applying for an employment permit.
You will be required to personally apply for and pay the costs of getting an Employment Permit. Your work permit must allow you to work full time for your prospective employer.
Recruitment opens in April
Successful applicants are expected to take up positions in autumn 2025
To register your interest in the Graduate Planner recruitment campaign and to receive advance notice as to when the online application portal goes live, please email graduates@lgma.ie stating your name and contact e-mail.