The application stage of our recruitment process is designed to help you demonstrate the skills and experiences you have that meet the criteria for the role. It is important to provide accurate information and to detail why you would be suitable for the role you are applying for. It is essential that you read the Competition Information Booklet fully to understand the role requirements, eligibility criteria and application process.
Application Tips
Review the Competition Information Booklet: Before starting your application form, review the Information Booklet to ensure you have read the requirements and duties of the role, including educational requirements to ensure you are eligible to apply for the role.
Read the application form: Read each question on the application form carefully and make sure that you answer all of the questions including any sub-questions. Please also ensure you adhere to any word limits given.
Give examples related to the competencies: The application form is designed to ensure you can clearly demonstrate the skills and experiences that you have. It is important to provide accurate information and to detail why you would be suitable for the role you are applying for.
Take your time: It’s important to take note of the competition closing date and give yourself sufficient time to fill out the application forms.
Check spelling and grammar: Allow time to proofread for any spelling or grammatical errors.
Save your work: Make sure to answer every question in the application form and save a copy of it for your records before submitting it. This document will form the basis of the interview stage.
Starting your Application
Now that you have read our tips you are ready to get started on your application. When you find a role on publicjobs.ie, you will first need to register an account with publicjobs.ie. Please note, if you already have an account with us, you can login to your account using candidate portal login.
Once you are logged into your account, you can search for the role you wish to apply for and click on the Apply button. Depending on the role you are applying for, you may be asked to complete a Standard and Detailed application form.
Step 1 – Online Application Form:
Click the Online Application Form and the details from your profile registration are automatically populated into the form. Once the form is completed, click Continue. You will receive a message to the email address you provided confirming receipt of your application within a few hours of submitting your application.
Step 2 – Detailed Application Form:
If there is a PDF Application Form, you will need to download and complete the form. If you have trouble downloading or opening the PDF form, please refer to Q1.4 in our FAQ section which will list out the steps to resolve this issue, which can be found on our FAQ page.
When you have completed and saved the application form, you should return to the job advertisement and complete the Online Application Form. Once you have completed the Online Application Form, click Continue. You are now asked to attach the completed PDF Application Form. You will receive a message to the email address you provided confirming receipt of your application within a few hours of submitting your application.
Do you need to submit a CV with your Application?
This is only a requirement if the Competition Information Booklet indicates that a CV is necessary, usually only for very senior roles or specific technical positions. After submitting your application, you can attach your CV in the Application Attachment section.
Updating an Application
You can update your application as long as the closing date has not passed. If you need to update your detailed application form:
- Log on to your publicjobs.ie profile and Click on My Applications.
- You will see your application in the My Applications closing date not yet passed section.
- Click on the link for the Standard Online Application form and make any changes.
- Click Continue once the changes have been made. You will then be prompted to attach your Application form.
- Click Submit.
Please note: If it is just the PDF application form that needs to be updated, you still have to click the link for the Standard Online Application Form and follow the same steps.
Withdrawing an application
You can withdraw an application before the closing date by logging into your profile and clicking on 'My Applications' and withdrawing the application. For information on Data Protection and the right to erasure .
More Information
For more information on the Application process, please click the FAQ page.