Apply to be a graduate planner in city or county councils in Ireland

Are you looking to make a difference in your community while building a fulfilling career? The Local Government Ireland Graduate Planner Programme is seeking enthusiastic and committed individuals to join city and county councils across Ireland as graduate planners. This is your chance to make a powerful impact to the development of vibrant, sustainable, and thriving communities.

Why choose to work as a graduate planner in one of Ireland’s city or county councils?

Plan spaces that leave a lasting impact

As a graduate planner, you'll have the opportunity to work on projects that directly affect the day-to-day lives of citizens. Whether it's planning new parks, enhancing transportation networks, or developing housing solutions, your work will help shape the future of Ireland's urban and rural landscapes.

Plan your future
The programme offers a supportive environment where you can develop your skills and advance your career. You'll be mentored by experienced planners and have access to professional development opportunities through a structured programme for career growth to help you reach your full potential.

Plan to make a powerful difference
You will join a forward-thinking team that embraces innovation. You'll be involved in projects that focus on sustainability, smart growth, and community engagement, and will have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the future development of our communities, ensuring Ireland's cities and towns remain desirable places to live and work.

Collaborative environment
Become part of a collaborative culture, with diverse areas of work, you will work alongside a professional team who are passionate about sustainable growth in our cities and towns.

What’s in it for you?

• A competitive salary starting at €38,956 with annual increments.
• 24 days annual leave per year.
• A flexible working and a focus on well-being.
• A chance to work across innovative, sustainable, and community-driven projects.
• A structured career pathway that allows you to progress in your chosen career as a professional planner.where 
• A comprehensive mentoring and structured development programme, to connect with professionals and stakeholders across the Local Government sector.

What will you be doing?

• Assisting with the management of a variety of planning applications — from small projects to major developments.
• Providing advice and collaborate with developers, council teams, local members, and residents.
• Attend and take part in planning committees — your voice will help shape decisions in the community.
• Work as part of a forward-thinking team to plan vibrant spaces, design thriving communities, and make a lasting impact that shapes Irish communities.

You can apply if you are a recent graduate with a 2.2 or higher in level 8 honours degree in planning or you are due to graduate this year and expect a 2.2 or higher in a level 8 honours degree in planning (and are entitled to reside and work in the Republic of Ireland).

Find out more on our graduate programme webpage here:
 

The Graduate Planner Programme 2025

Download our graduate planner programme information booklet here:

Local-authority-graduate-programme-information-booklet.pdf (localgovernmentjobs.ie)

Apply by completing the online application form here:

Local Authority Graduate Programme (powerappsportals.com)


Any queries you have regarding the application process can be submitted to gradautes@lgma.ie.