What is a Naval Service Recruit?

A Naval Service Recruit is a person who enlists for General Service in the Naval Service, the maritime component of the Irish Defence Forces. The Recruit Training and Able Rate Courses focus on instilling military discipline, physical fitness, seamanship, weapons handling and training in naval operations. This is your opportunity to be part of a professional and dynamic team that patrols and protects Ireland’s territorial waters. You will be fully trained but applicants should have:

• A desire to work in a disciplined military environment.
• A commitment to teamwork.
• The ability to work well in a high pressure and physically demanding environment.
• A willingness to deploy to sea with the Irish Naval Service.

Eligibility Requirements to join the General Service Recruit:

• Applicants must be 18 years of age and under 39 years of age: you will be required to provide proof of your age if you progress to the next stage of the competition.
• You must be at least 5ft 2in (157.48cm) in height. You will be measured during the selection process.
• No tattoos are to be visible above the collar while serving in the Defence Forces. This will be checked during the selection process and you may not proceed if you have visible tattoos above your collar.
• Applicants must meet the working permit eligibility criteria to serve in the Defence Forces. i.e. You must have a minimum of 5 years eligibility to stay in Ireland. You will be requested to provide proof of working permit on your application.
• Must meet medical, physical and security clearance standards, which will be assessed during the recruitment process.

What to expect as Naval Service Recruit:

• You will participate in basic recruit training of 13 weeks, which is designed to develop a physically fit, disciplined and motivated person with basic military skills.
• Upon completion of Recruit Training, you will return to the Naval Base to complete Ordinary to Able Rate Training to begin branch-specific training in Seamanship, Communications, Mechanicians, or Supplies.
• Once qualified, you’ll be promoted to Able Rate and assigned to a Naval Service ship, where you’ll take part in a two-year sea rotation.
• Duties include general maintenance, boat operations, firefighting, damage control and participating in naval boarding teams during drug interdiction operations.
• Further training opportunities are available for those who wish to specialise and advance their careers within the Naval Service.

Permanent Base: Naval Base, Haulbowline,Co Cork