Construction apprenticeships in Ireland
An apprenticeship remains the best route into a skilled trade in Ireland. It takes four years, you are paid throughout, and you finish with a qualification recognised across the country and beyond.
Last reviewed 10 November 2026 by the O'Neill & Brennan team
How it works
Irish apprenticeships run on the standards based system coordinated by SOLAS. You are employed by a registered employer and alternate between on the job work and off the job training phases in a training centre or institute of technology.
The full programme is four years and results in a QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate.
Trades available
The construction apprenticeships most relevant to the work we handle:
- Carpentry and joinery
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- Brick and stonelaying
- Plastering
- Painting and decorating
- Metal fabrication
- Pipefitting
What apprentices are paid
Apprentice rates are set as a percentage of the qualified craftsperson rate and rise each year. First years typically earn around a third of the full rate, rising to roughly ninety per cent by the fourth year.
You are paid during the off the job training phases as well, which is one of the main advantages over a full time college course.
Finding an employer
You need an employer to register you before you can begin. This is the part people find hardest. Getting onto a site as a general operative first is a practical way in, because it puts you in front of the contractors who take apprentices on.
Common questions
How long is a construction apprenticeship in Ireland?
Four years, alternating between paid work with an employer and off the job training phases, leading to a QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate.
Do apprentices get paid in Ireland?
Yes, throughout, including during the off the job training phases. Rates are a percentage of the qualified rate and rise each year.
How do I find an apprenticeship employer?
You need a registered employer to take you on. Starting as a general operative on site is a practical route, as it puts you in front of contractors who recruit apprentices.