Electrical and Instrumentation Apprentice

The Ballyshannon stations are known collectively as the Erne hydro-electric scheme. Cathaleen’s Fall, Cliff Station and Clady Station. The Erne Scheme is the second largest source of hydroelectric power in the country. generating a capacity of almost 70MWs, supplying electricity to over 38,000 homes. The Hydro stations are part of ESB’s low-carbon generation portfolio and play an important part in ESB’s renewable energy strategy of NetZero by 2040. 

ESB is inviting those interested to apply for our Apprenticeship (Mechanical and Electrical / Instrumentation) programmes which will commence in September 2025. Our apprenticeship programme will provide you with: 

• both on-the-job and classroom-based learning 
• dynamic work experience working in one of the most technically advanced generating plants in Europe 
• the skills required to undertake routine power plant maintenance as well as diagnose and problem-solve complex power plant faults 
• attain a recognised Level 6 Trade Certificate with a world-class Utility Company

What an ESB Apprenticeship consists of: 

The Apprenticeship is SOLAS standards-based, consisting of 208 weeks / 4-year duration. During the 4 years, there are 7 SOLAS Phases: 

• Phases 1, 3, 5 and 7 are on-the-job training, gaining experience while working closely with qualified Crafts people on site.

• SOLAS Phases 2, 4 and 6 are off-the-job training modules. These phases take place in a SOLAS Training Centre and in IT Colleges.

Educational Qualifications 

Candidates must be 17 years of age or older before the 1st June 2025 and have obtained the following minimum standards at the time of applying: 

• Junior Cycle Profile of Achievement – 5 Merit grades or higher in Maths, English or Irish, Science* and two other subjects. 

• Junior Certificate – 5 grades C or higher Maths, English or Irish, Science* and two other subjects. 

• Leaving Certificate Applied - 120 or more Credits. 

• Vocational Leaving Certificate – 5 grades D’s or higher in Maths, English or Irish, Science* and two other subjects. 

• Leaving Certificate – 5 grade O6 or higher (formerly 3 Leaving cert grade D or higher) in Maths, English or Irish, Science* and two other subjects (H7 is not accepted as equivalent to O3 for this Campaign, a candidate must have a minimum of 40% in required subject either in higher or ordinary level) 

• FETAC/QQI Level 3 Major Awards – Minimum 6 modules which include 

• Communications, 

• Mathematics or Broader Application of Number and Functional Mathematics, 

• Personal Effectiveness or Personal and Interpersonal Skills. 

• FETAC/QQI Level 4 Major Awards – Minimum 5 modules. 

• FETAC/QQI Level 5 Major Awards – Minimum 5 modules. 

Science* can be replaced by Technology, Art, Craft & Design, Technical Graphics, Metalwork, Material Technology (Wood) Design Communication Graphics, Construction, Engineering, Home Economics, Ag Science, Biology, Physics, Chemistry 

Closing date for applications is the 5th May 2025

If you have any queries, please e-mail: apprentices@esb.ie

There is no commitment to a role in ESB upon completion of the apprenticeship. 

Note:

Please advise if you require any additional accommodations to assist you if you are called to attend at interview. 

Inclusion and Diversity Statement 

ESB is committed to being an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all sections of society and ensure that no one is discriminated against on the grounds of race, religion or belief, ethnicity or nationality, disability, age, citizenship, marital status, domestic or civil partnership status, sexual orientation or gender identity, or any other basis as protected by law. Applicants who anticipate requiring assistance or reasonable accommodations for any part of the application or interview process may contact, in confidence, recruitment@esb.ie.

About ESB

Join us in our mission to achieve a net-zero electricity system by 2040. ESB is Ireland’s leading energy utility, with activities spanning electricity generation, transmission and distribution, energy supply, energy services and international consultancy. Operating in Ireland, Northern Ireland and Great Britain, we invest over €1 billion each year to deliver a new energy future based on reliable, affordable zero-carbon electricity.

Our inclusive culture fosters innovation and connection among our 9,000 employees. At ESB, we support you to be your best so that you can truly make a difference.