NI Civil Service launches major recruitment drive for 120 senior roles

The Northern Ireland Civil Service has opened the door to around 120 new Deputy Principal posts — the first recruitment at this level in four years — marking a significant intake aimed at strengthening departments right across government.

The campaign will fill vacancies across all NICS departments and locations, with successful candidates stepping into key roles at the heart of policy development and public service delivery.

Deputy Principals play an important part in developing and delivering key areas of government policy and work closely with senior staff supporting them in the management of significant services and programmes. In practical terms, that places them at the centre of decisions that shape how services operate and how policy is turned into action.

With a starting salary of £47,304 per annum and an attractive annual leave and pension package, the posts offer what the NICS describes as a strong opportunity to build a rewarding career in public service.

The competition is also strategically significant. Recruitment at this scale will be used to fill current vacancies across all departments, reducing reliance on temporary promotions and agency staff.

It will also be used to fill any additional vacancies that may arise over the duration of the competition, providing longer-term stability in senior operational roles.

The Northern Ireland Civil Service has said it is committed to being an inclusive employer and holds several workplace endorsements, including the Silver Diversity Mark and the Disability Positive accreditation.

Applications close at noon on Friday 20 March 2026.

Further information and details on how to apply are available at:

irecruit-ext.hrconnect.nigov.net/