125 Civil Service student placements announced for 2026/27 across Northern Ireland

Pictured with Finance Minister John O’Dowd are Ulster University students Caitlin Lowry (Left), who is studying Marketing, and Lewis Orr, who is studying Business Studies.

The Department of Finance has announced the launch of the 2026/27 Civil Service Student Placement Scheme, offering around 125 paid placement opportunities across Northern Ireland government departments.

Finance Minister John O’Dowd confirmed the recruitment drive, which will open to eligible students ahead of placements starting between July and September 2026.

The annual scheme provides students with the chance to gain hands-on experience across a wide range of professional areas within the Northern Ireland Civil Service (NICS), one of the region’s largest employers.

Approximately 100 placements are available through the general competition, covering disciplines such as accountancy, project management, communications, science, agriculture, environment, ICT, economics, policy and law.

A further 25 placements will be available through a specialised Construction and Infrastructure competition, open to students studying architecture, engineering, surveying and planning.

Successful applicants will receive a salary of £25,796 per annum, a comprehensive benefits package, and access to peer support through the Civil Service Student Network.

Launching the initiative, Finance Minister John O’Dowd said:

“I am pleased we can once again offer students the opportunity to work in the Civil Service, one of the largest employers here.

“Placements are available in a wide range of areas offering an excellent opportunity to gain valuable and practical experience in a professional working environment.

”I would encourage those eligible to apply. Working in the Civil Service not only enables students to develop their skillset and contribute to the delivery of public services, but also to help improve the lives of our citizens.”

Students currently completing placements have praised the experience for helping to bridge the gap between university learning and real-world application.

Marketing student Caitlin Lowry, currently working in NICS HR, said:

“This opportunity has allowed me to develop my skills and gain hands-on-experience across a variety of projects and events.

“A placement within NICS is a fantastic way to apply what you learn at university, build confidence in a professional environment, and set a strong foundation for your future career.”

Fellow placement student Lewis Orr, also based in NICS HR, added:

“I have enjoyed taking ownership of meaningful tasks that contribute to the department and have already gained skills that I didn’t realise I would.

“I quickly moved on to higher responsibilities and had the opportunity to connect with fellow students and network at events. Placement within NICS is a great opportunity.”

Students interested in applying can find full details and eligibility criteria on the official recruitment website: www.nicsrecruitment.org.uk/studentplacements.

Applications close at noon on Friday 24 October 2025.