The Work

In addition to the three territorial Brigade areas, the Defence Forces also maintains the Defence Forces Training Centre at the Curragh Camp in which the principal training installations and logistical support units are based. Along with the Air Corps and Naval Service, there are nine Army Corps, such as the Infantry Corps, Artillery Corps, Cavalry Corps and Engineering Corps. Each Corps has a designated military task, the specialised nature of which offers the young officer the opportunity of a career in a particular sphere.  
 
The Army has at its disposal a wide array of modern equipment and weaponry ranging from modern armoured personnel carriers to the personal weapon of the Irish soldier - the 5.56mm Steyr rifle.  

Roles for cadets within the Defence Forces, as approved by the Government are:  

• to aid the civil power that is assisting the Garda Siochana, including the protection of the internal security of the State,
• to defend the State against armed aggression,
• to participate in United Nations missions in the cause of international peace,
• to provide a fishery protection service in accordance with the State's obligations as a member of the European Community 

Other duties, such as search and rescue, air ambulance service, Ministerial air transport service and assisting at emergencies and maintaining essential services, may be assigned from time to time.

This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:

Realist

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

Enterprising

Enterprising people like situations that involve using resources for personal or corporate economic gain. Such people may have an opportunistic frame of mind, and are drawn to commerce, trade and making deals. Some pursue sales and marketing occupations. Many will eventually end up owning their own business, or in management roles in larger organisations. They tend to be very goal-oriented and work best when focused on a target. Some have an entrepreneurial inclination.

Competitions for cadetships are usually advertised in the national media annually. All eligible candidates undergo a preliminary interview at a regional centre. Candidates who pass this interview go forward for a medical examination and second interview in Dublin Military Careers. 
 
The award of cadetships to qualified candidates will be subject to passing a further medical examination on reporting for training. A candidate to whom a cadetship has been awarded is enlisted as a Cadet for the duration of his or her training.  

Army Cadets must have the ability to do all of the above while working in a physically demanding and high pressure environment. The Officer must also be in good health and be physically fit.

At the time of application they must be between Be 18 years of age or over and under 26 years of age on the date mentioned in the notice for the current competition, and meet certain physical and psychological standards. 

Candidates must have security clearance and lawfully reside in Ireland.

Training & Development  

The purpose of cadet training is to develop character and leadership skills and instil a sense of duty and responsibility in the cadets.  

 
The course of training in the Cadet School, Military College, Curragh Camp is of approximately 15 months. During this time the cadet is instructed in Weapons handling, Tactics, Arms and Foot Drill, Military Engineering Human Resource Management, Communications Skills, Military Law, Computer Training in Office Information Systems, Spreadsheets, Graphics and Academic Studies.

Cadets are required to take an active interest in sport, to which special attention is given and for which provision is made in the Curriculum.  
 
Graduates with a National Diploma on Military Studies then join commissioned ranks as an Army officer.

Last Updated: March, 2023

Salary Range (thousands per year)* €21k - €67k

Salaries vary by scale, rank, duties, role, experience, and allowances
Defence Forces Rates of Pay

Data Source(s):
Military.ie/ Indeed/ Talent.com

Last Updated: February, 2024

* The lower figures typically reflect starting salaries. Higher salaries are awarded to those with greater experience and responsibility. Positions in Dublin sometimes command higher salaries.

View Salary information from Indeed.ie
Note: data not aways available

This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).

Employment in this occupation has been declining annually since 2020. Those working in this occupation are primarily employed within the public sector and, as such, any employment growth will be dependent on future Government funding. Budget 2023 allocated funding for an additional 100 prison service officers.

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