Under 18 Jobs in Ireland
Find part-time, weekend and entry-level jobs for 16 and 17 year olds across Ireland — plus the Irish working-age rules you need to know.
Working-Age Rules in Ireland
In Ireland, employment of young people is regulated by the Protection of Young Persons (Employment) Act 1996. Young people aged 16 and 17 may work, with limits on hours, night work and rest breaks. Under-16s may only work in limited, permitted circumstances. Always confirm a role meets legal requirements before applying or hiring.
Job Types for Under 18s
Retail & Shop Work
Shop assistant, shelf-stacker, till operator roles in stores across Ireland.
Browse retail & shop workHospitality & Catering
Waitstaff, kitchen porter, bar-back and café roles (age-appropriate).
Browse hospitality & cateringWeekend & Evening Jobs
Flexible weekend and evening work that fits around school or college.
Browse weekend & evening jobsTips for Under 18 Job Seekers
- Check hours don't clash with school
- Get parental consent if under 16
- Build a simple CV with school and interests
- Highlight availability (weekends, evenings)
- Apply for part-time and no-experience roles
- Use our CV Builder to get started free
Frequently Asked Questions
Can under 18s work in Ireland?
Yes. In Ireland, young people aged 16 and 17 can work part-time and full-time during school holidays, but there are rules on maximum hours, rest breaks and late-night work. Under-16s can only work in limited, permitted circumstances (for example light work with parental consent). Employers must follow the Protection of Young Persons (Employment) Act 1996.
What jobs can under 18s do in Ireland?
Common under-18 jobs in Ireland include retail assistant, shop work, hospitality and catering roles (waitstaff, kitchen porters), weekend and evening work, cleaner, shelf-stacker and part-time warehouse roles (with restrictions). Always check the role meets the legal conditions for young workers.
How many hours can a 16–17 year old work in Ireland?
Under the Protection of Young Persons Act, 16–17 year olds may work up to 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week, with a maximum of 8 hours per shift. Night work between 10pm and 6am is generally not permitted, and there are set rest break and weekly rest requirements. During term time, working hours should not interfere with school.
Do under 18s need a work permit in Ireland?
Irish citizens and young people with the right to work in Ireland do not need a permit for part-time or holiday jobs. Under-16s require written parental consent and, in most cases, approval from the Minister. Non-EEA nationals have separate immigration requirements.
Where can I find under 18 jobs near me in Ireland?
Search JobsIrish.ie for part-time, weekend and entry-level roles in retail and hospitality in your county. Use the job type filters to narrow down part-time or weekend work, and our No Experience Jobs Ireland page shows roles open to candidates without prior work history.
Can 14 or 15 year olds get a job in Ireland?
Children aged 14–15 may do limited permitted work — generally light work of up to 7 hours per week, with parental consent and outside school hours. Many employers raise their minimum hiring age to 16 for insurance and operational reasons, so opportunities for 14–15 year olds are limited.
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