Mapping Assistant

Overview

The RIA is a predominantly publicly funded institution established for the promotion of learning in the sciences and humanities across the island of Ireland. The Academy’s latest strategic plan is available here: Strategic Plan – Royal Irish Academy (ria.ie).

The IHTA is one of a number of long-term research programmes at the RIA. It is engaged in research and cartography focusing on understanding the development of our built heritage. Published atlases and online editions have been produced for 32 towns and cities across Ireland, north and south. The IHTA is one of nineteen European national historic towns atlas programmes. See https://www.ria.ie/research-programmes/irish-historic-towns-atlas/.

Key purpose of role

This role will involve assisting in the compilation and preservation of content (maps and texts) for the Irish Historic Towns Atlas (IHTA) series in its printed and digital forms in addition to supporting the day-to-day programme of work. This involves: (a) the digitisation, preparation and editing of historic/historical maps using GIS; (b) creation and preparation of metadata and digital assets for preservation purposes; (c) carrying out duties associated with the general running of the research programme.

Key accountabilities

The Mapping Assistant’s responsibilities will include:

• Preparation of IHTA maps in Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
• Following and contributing to technical guidelines, in co-ordination with the Cartographic and Managing Editor
• Creating and preparing metadata and digital assets for preservation purposes (e.g. for ingestion into the Digital Repository of Ireland)
• Liaising with other members of the in-house team (which may include temporary staff and students), RIA colleagues, IHTA authors and board members and the wider public about IHTA work
• Engaging in outreach activities to publicise the IHTA’s work
• Other administrative duties
• Other duties that may be assigned from time to time by the Cartographic and Managing Editor, and Executive Director

Note: To qualify candidates must be eligible by the date of any job offer. This job description is a guide to broad areas of responsibility and accountability and should not be regarded as a comprehensive listing. The job description may be subject to review in view of new structures and/or the changing needs of the Academy.

Person specificationEssential qualifications

• A third level degree
• A qualification in GIS
• A minimum of three years’ relevant work or research experience in digital mapping
• Keen interest in urban history and heritage
• Excellent attention to detail and a conscientious approach to work
• Self-motivated with flexibility in being able to juggle multiple demands and adapt to new situations
• Broad IT and digital communications skills including familiarity with Adobe Suite
• Excellent knowledge of English grammar and punctuation
• Ability to work autonomously as part of a small team and to know when to take initiative
• Strong organisational and time management skills

Desirable qualifications

• A postgraduate degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. digital humanities, history, geography, archaeology, architecture)
• Research experience in urban studies
• Copy-editing experience
• Proficiency in the Irish language

Further Information

Salary: Salary is on the Admin Officer / Programme Manager Scale €44,711 – €57,406. Entry will be at the minimum of the scale.

Hours of Work: 35 hours per week (0.4 FTE = 14 hours per week).

Overtime is not paid; excess attendance is compensated with time off in lieu.

This role is suitable for blended working.

Leave: 25 days per annum (pro-rata). Public holidays apply per legislation. Up to four days leave may be required at Christmas closure.

Employee Benefits:

• Generous annual leave entitlement
• Family friendly policies
• Blended working policy
• Optical benefit scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Learning and development opportunities
• Sick leave scheme
• Paid maternity, adoptive and paternity leave
• Pension scheme
• Employee assistance programme

Medical: Staff may be required to undergo a medical examination at the Academy’s expense.

Pension: Details will be provided upon appointment.

Permanent Pension Contribution: Subject to ASC (effective 1 January 2019).

Application Process

Submit one Word document to recruitment@ria.ie including:

• Cover letter (max. 700 words)
• CV (max. 4 pages)

Applications will be shortlisted based on submitted information.

Please note: Failure to meet requirements will invalidate the application.

Closing date: 25 May 2026 at 3pm (late applications will not be considered).

Interviews are expected week commencing 1 June 2026 and will include competency-based questions.

Panels may be formed for future vacancies.

The Royal Irish Academy will not refund expenses incurred by candidates.