The National Monuments Service of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage is offering up to four grants in 2027 to assist archaeologists to gain commercial diving qualifications. The aim is to increase the number of underwater archaeologists working in both the commercial and public sectors in Ireland. Qualified archaeologists could extend their expertise by gaining underwater qualifications that enable them to work as underwater archaeologists on projects with the National Monuments Service, other research projects, or in the commercial archaeological sector in Ireland.
This grant is awarded for the purpose of assisting successful applicants to gain HSE Part 4 and Part 3 qualifications (or equivalent) and will cover course fees up to the value of €5,900.
Successful candidates will be selected on the basis of interview. Short-listing may apply. Grants will be awarded on the successful completion of the commercial dive training course.
To be eligible, applicants should have:
- An academic degree (NFQ Level 8 or higher) in archaeology
- Knowledge or experience of underwater archaeology
- Knowledge or experience of Irish archaeology
- Availability and commitment to work as an underwater archaeologist in Ireland
- Eligibility/Authorisation to work longterm in Ireland
In addition, the applicants should ideally have:
- Completed a basic dive training course
- Dived in Ireland
- Dived in the past year
- Two years’ practical experience in archaeology
The National Monuments Service is inviting interested archaeologists to submit a covering letter,
CV and details of their proposed dive training course by email to uch@housing.gov.ie
The closing date for applications is 5pm, Friday 30 October, 2026.