About this role
In order to work in Ireland a non-EEA National, unless they are exempted, must hold a valid employment permit. Please review the Eligibility and requirements for an employment permit if you are unsure of your eligibility to apply for this vacancy. The Department of Defence invites applications for appointment to the position of Principal Social Worker. This competition is open to all candidates who meet the minimum eligibility criteria. There is currently one permanent and whole-time vacancy available based in McKee Barracks, Blackhorse Avenue, Dublin 7. DO7 AO65. This is a national role and as such will require nationwide travel. Occasional International travel to Defence Forces personnel based overseas may be required on a voluntary basis. Essential Qualifications and/ or experience Candidates must at the latest date for receipt of applications: (i) Be registered on the Social Workers Register maintained by the Social Workers Registration Board at CORU. AND (ii) Have at least 5 years’ post qualification experience in the management and delivery of social work or social care services. AND (iii) Have the requisite knowledge and ability (including a high standard of suitability, management and professional ability) for the proper discharge of the duties of the office. (iv) Provide proof of Statutory Registration on the Social Workers Register maintained by the Social Workers Registration Board at CORU before a contract of employment can be issued. Annual registration (i) On appointment, practitioners must maintain annual registration on the Social Workers Register maintained by the Social Workers Registration Board at CORU Desirable A post graduate qualification and/or demonstrable experience and competencies in any of the following areas: Adult mental health and wellbeing, suicide prevention & postvention, addiction, trauma, bereavement, relationship difficulties, bullying and harassment, sexual violence and harassment; Training delivery and evaluation, health promotion, adult education; research; Staff supervision, human resource management. Post Specific Requirements . Demonstrate depth and breadth of experience in the management and delivery of social work services as relevant to the role. • Experience in leading and contributing to service improvement and change programmes. • Experience of implementing policy and practice guidance • Experience working with multiple internal and external stakeholders at organisational, regional and/or national level Other requirements specific to the post Access to appropriate transport to fulfil the requirements of the role as post will involve travel. For full vacancy details and vacancy information booklet, please visit the vacancy page: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-defence/organisation-information/job-vacancies/ Please review the vacancy information booklet before completing your application. Competition Reference 06/26 Closing Date: 5:30pm on Friday 09 October 2026