Work placements for undergraduates

Supporting the next generation of talent who will help shape the future of Ireland’s water services.

Work placement opportunities at Uisce Éireann

“Real experience. Real impact. Your future starts here.”

Our work placements are designed for penultimate‑year undergraduate students who are motivated and eager to learn. Gain meaningful, hands‑on experience while contributing to work that matters. This is your chance to explore your strengths in a real operational environment and experience what a career with Uisce Éireann could look like.

  • Contribute to meaningful, community‑focused work
  • Gain hands‑on, practical experience in a national organisation
  • Build confidence, teamwork and problem‑solving skills
  • Take part in learning and development through Uisce University
  • Develop a strong foundation for future graduate opportunities
  • Be part of an organisation with purpose and impact

What you can expect

6-9 month placements

Placements last 6 to 9 months, starting in January or March each year. They give you time to contribute, learn and grow.

Real, purpose-driven work

You’ll be part of a team from day one. Contribute to real projects, build practical skills and learn how Uisce Éireann operates at a national scale.

Learning and development

During your placement, you'll also take part in a structured learning and development with Uisce University. The programme is designed specifically for work placement students.

It includes:

  • Classroom learning on key topics relevant to our work
  • Online learning modules you can complete at your own pace
  • Masterclasses where subject matter experts share insights and real‑world examples
  • Site visits to water and wastewater treatment locations, giving you firsthand experience of the essential services we deliver

This blended learning experience ensures that you gain practical skills, while deepening your understanding of Ireland’s water services and the impact of your work.

Support while you learn

You’ll have ongoing support from your manager, team and colleagues We want you to feel challenged in a positive way and supported throughout your journey.

A path to future opportunities

Strong performers may be considered for a graduate role after completing their degree, making a work placement the first step towards a future career with Uisce Éireann.

How to apply

Work placement opportunities are advertised each September through careers offices and work placement managers in third‑level institutions across Ireland. Apply through your university’s process and follow the timelines they provide.

Work placement FAQs

You'll take on real responsibilities within one of our directorates, contributing to meaningful projects that support national water services. This helps you apply academic learning in practice while developing professional skills and confidence.

Yes. All placement students follow a bespoke development pathway. It's designed to strengthen your technical ability and workplace behaviours, while giving you insight into how Uisce Éireann operates.

The programme is open to students in the penultimate year of their degree. The placement must meet your university’s degree requirements. 

Roles are based in Cork or Dublin and they are paid.

Hear from recent graduates

Sinead

IT Work Placement

"I really enjoyed my time working in the IT Operations Technology Department here at Uisce Éireann. This opportunity allowed me to develop my technical skills ahead of my final year of college but also was a brilliant place to work. The work culture here is one where people genuinely help and support each other making it a great environment to learn, grow and contribute with confidence. I am incredibly grateful to have been a part of this programme and brilliant organisation."

Allana

HR Work Placement

"My time at Uisce Éireann has been both rewarding and inspiring. I’ve built valuable skills in HR and performance management, while also growing in confidence and developing professionally. From day one, I felt supported and encouraged to take initiative, which made me feel like a valued member of the team. What stood out most to me was the positive and collaborative culture, where trust and innovation are truly encouraged."

Mia

Internal Communications Work Placement

"I joined the Internal Communications team in January as part of the Uisce Éireann Work Placement Programme, having first heard about the opportunity through someone who works within the organisation.

I found the programme highly rewarding, with strong support from the team and the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a busy environment. During my time, I worked across a range of internal communications priorities, including supporting the development of internal channels and contributing to editorial governance.

This experience allowed me to build practical skills, take ownership of real work, and gain a broader understanding of how internal communications operates within a large organisation."

Pragya

Business Operations Graduate

“My time at the Uisce Éireann Graduate Programme has been incredibly enriching. Coming from a business and marketing background, I wasn’t sure what to expect- but each rotation opened up a world of learning and growth. Each rotation offered unique opportunities to develop professionally, ranging from supporting high-impact marketing initiatives to contributing to national-level strategic plans. I’ve had the chance to take on diverse responsibilities and grow in ways I never imagined, all while being supported by mentors who are genuinely invested in my success. I would highly recommend this programme to anyone seeking a purposeful career in the water industry.”

Together we thrive

Careers

Become part of a community that supports, challenges and grows with you.

Current vacancies

Visit our careers portal to browse active job openings and apply for a role.

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