Looking for a rewarding entry-level healthcare career? Healthcare assistants form the backbone of Ireland’s patient care system, supporting nurses, doctors, and allied health professionals across hospitals, nursing homes, community services, and disability facilities. Whether you’re new to healthcare or changing careers, JobVacancies.ie connects you with the latest healthcare assistant positions across all Irish regions.
Current Healthcare Assistant Vacancies in Ireland
Browse the latest healthcare assistant opportunities posted by HSE facilities, private hospitals, and care providers nationwide. We update vacancies daily.
What Do Healthcare Assistants Do?
Healthcare assistants provide essential support to patients and residents across various settings. Your daily responsibilities ensure comfort, dignity, and quality of life for vulnerable populations.
Patient Care & Support
Healthcare assistants help patients with daily living activities including personal hygiene, dressing, toileting, and mobility. You’ll work closely with patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and community settings, providing compassionate, respectful care that makes a real difference.
Supporting Healthcare Teams
You’ll assist nurses, doctors, and allied health professionals by preparing treatment areas, sterilizing equipment, monitoring vital signs, and helping with patient transfers. Your role supports efficient, high-quality patient care across busy wards and departments.
Infection Control & Safety
Maintaining hygiene standards protects patients and staff. Healthcare assistants follow strict infection control protocols, including hand hygiene, safe handling of bodily fluids, and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Record Keeping & Communication
Accurate record keeping ensures continuity of care. You’ll update patient records, report changes in patient condition, and communicate effectively with the healthcare team to ensure nothing is missed.
Types of Healthcare Assistant Roles
Staff Healthcare Assistant – Ward-Based
Work in hospital wards supporting nurses in acute care settings. These roles offer variety, fast-paced environments, and exposure to diverse patient conditions across medical, surgical, and specialty wards.
- Common locations: Dublin, Waterford, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Letterkenny
- Salary: €25,000–€32,000
- Employment: Permanent & contract roles available
Care Assistant – Nursing Homes & Long-Term Care
Support elderly residents in nursing homes and long-term care facilities, assisting with activities of daily living and companionship. These roles often offer more consistent schedules and meaningful relationships with residents.
- Common locations: Throughout Ireland
- Salary: €24,000–€30,000
- Employment: Permanent, part-time, and agency work
Healthcare Assistant – Community Care
Work in patients’ homes through community health teams, providing personal care, mobility support, and companionship. Community roles offer flexibility and direct one-to-one patient contact.
- Common locations: All Irish counties
- Salary: €24,000–€30,000
- Employment: Flexible, permanent, and agency positions
Healthcare Assistant – Disability Services
Support people with physical, intellectual, or sensory disabilities in day centers, residential facilities, and community settings. Rewarding work promoting independence and quality of life.
- Common locations: Throughout Ireland
- Salary: €24,000–€31,000
- Employment: Permanent & part-time roles
Mental Health & Psychiatric Care Assistant
Work in mental health units, psychiatric hospitals, and crisis resolution teams supporting service users with mental health challenges. Ideal for those passionate about mental health support.
- Common locations: Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway, Waterford
- Salary: €25,000–€32,000
- Employment: Permanent & contract
Pediatric Care Assistant
Support children in pediatric wards, neonatal units, and child health centers. These specialized roles require patience, gentleness, and communication skills for young patients.
- Common locations: Dublin teaching hospitals, regional hospitals
- Salary: €25,000–€32,000
- Employment: Permanent & contract
Where to Find Healthcare Assistant Jobs in Ireland
Ireland’s healthcare system spans multiple regions. Healthcare assistant vacancies are available in:
HSE Regions:
- Dublin & North East (Dublin, Louth, Meath, Cavan, Monaghan)
- Midlands (Offaly, Westmeath, Longford, Laois, Kildare, Wicklow)
- South East (Waterford, Wexford, Kilkenny, Carlow)
- Cork & Kerry (Cork, Kerry)
- West & North West (Galway, Roscommon, Mayo, Sligo, Donegal, Leitrim)
Hospital Types:
- Academic Teaching Hospitals (Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick)
- Regional Hospitals (Waterford, Letterkenny, Sligo)
- Community Hospitals & Care Centers
- Nursing Homes & Private Care Facilities
- Disability Services & Day Centers
Major Healthcare Facilities:
Connolly Hospital Dublin, Mater Hospital Dublin, St. Vincent’s University Hospital, Cork University Hospital, University Hospital Limerick, Waterford University Hospital, Letterkenny University Hospital, Sligo University Hospital, Galway University Hospital, and hundreds of community health centers nationwide.
Qualifications & Requirements for Healthcare Assistant Jobs
Essential Qualifications
- Leaving Certificate or equivalent qualification (often minimum requirement)
- Willingness to learn and develop in healthcare
- Ability to work in a team environment
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Physical fitness for patient handling and mobility assistance
- Gardaí Vetting (required for all HSE roles)
- References from recent employers or educational institutions
Preferred Qualifications
- QQI Level 4 or 5 Healthcare Support Certificate
- First Aid Certificate (Level 1 or 2)
- Manual Handling Certification
- Patient Handling & Mobility Skills
- Experience in healthcare, social care, or customer service
- IELTS 7.0+ for international applicants
- Previous care experience (voluntary or paid)
Training Provided
Many HSE and healthcare providers offer on-the-job training for healthcare assistants. Common training includes:
- Manual handling & patient mobility
- Infection control & hygiene procedures
- Health & safety in healthcare environments
- Communication with vulnerable people
- Dementia awareness & mental health basics
- Basic patient monitoring
- Safeguarding & data protection
Why Pursue a Healthcare Assistant Career in Ireland?
Entry Point to Healthcare
Healthcare assistant roles are the ideal entry point to a healthcare career. Gain experience, develop skills, and progress to nursing, occupational therapy, or physiotherapy roles. Many current nurses started as healthcare assistants.
Competitive Salary & Benefits
New healthcare assistants earn €24,000–€32,000. HSE roles include pension schemes, annual leave allowances, healthcare benefits, and professional development support. Salaries increase with experience.
Job Security & Stability
Ireland faces a care worker shortage with aging populations and expanded healthcare services. Healthcare assistant roles offer strong job security and continuous demand.
Meaningful Work
Make a real difference in patients’ lives every day. Healthcare assistants provide direct care, comfort, and support to vulnerable people—deeply rewarding work.
Career Progression
Clear pathways exist from healthcare assistant to nursing, specialized care roles, or management positions. Employers support professional development through training and education.
Shift Flexibility
Many healthcare facilities offer flexible scheduling, part-time options, and shift patterns that suit your lifestyle (day shifts, evenings, nights, weekends).
Diverse Work Settings
Work in hospitals, nursing homes, community care, disability services, mental health facilities, or private providers. Variety keeps work interesting and builds broad experience.
How to Apply for Healthcare Assistant Jobs
Step 1: Browse Available Positions
Search by location, facility type, employment type (permanent/contract/agency), and shift pattern on our site.
Step 2: Review the Job Description Carefully
Read role responsibilities, required qualifications, salary, benefits, and application deadline. Check training opportunities and shift patterns.
- Update your CV with educational qualifications and any care experience (paid or voluntary)
- Include any certifications (First Aid, Manual Handling, QQI qualifications)
- Write a brief cover letter explaining your interest in healthcare and patient care
- Gather references from previous employers, educators, or care supervisors
- Arrange Gardaí vetting (typically done after shortlisting; HSE will guide you)
Step 4: Apply Online
Click “Apply Now” on the job listing. Most positions use online application portals (HSE careers portal, hospital HR systems, or recruitment platforms). Some may require phone applications.
Step 5: Interview & Assessment
Expect interviews within 2–3 weeks. Many roles include practical assessments (manual handling demonstration, patient scenario handling, communication exercises) to assess suitability.
Salary & Pay Scales for Healthcare Assistants in Ireland
HSE Pay Scales (as of 2025)
- Healthcare Assistant Entry Point: €25,500–€31,500 (depending on location and experience)
- With Annual Increments: Increases year-on-year for service
- Private Sector & Nursing Homes: €24,000–€32,000 (varies by employer)
Additional Earnings:
- Night Shift Premiums: Extra allowance for overnight work
- Weekend Rates: Enhanced pay for Saturday/Sunday work
- Bank Holiday Pay: Premium rates on public holidays
- On-Call Allowances: In some facilities with on-call rotas
Example Progression:
- Year 1-2: Entry salary €25,500–€27,000
- Year 3-5: Mid-point €27,500–€29,000
- Year 5+: Senior healthcare assistant €29,000–€31,500+
Annual Leave: 20–25 days + public holidays
Pension: HSE roles include defined benefit pension schemes
Health Benefits: Some employers offer healthcare coverage and wellness programs
Interview Tips for Healthcare Assistant Roles
Common Interview Questions & How to Answer
Tell us about your interest in healthcare.
Show genuine compassion for helping others. Mention specific experiences with vulnerable people (family, volunteering, previous roles). Emphasize patience and empathy.
How would you handle a difficult or distressed patient?
Use STAR method: Describe a specific situation, your task, actions taken, and positive result. Emphasize calm communication, respect, and teamwork.
Why is infection control important?
Demonstrate understanding of patient safety. Mention handwashing, PPE, proper disposal of hazardous materials, and protecting vulnerable people.
Describe your physical fitness for this role.
Acknowledge the demands (standing long hours, patient handling, mobility). Mention any relevant fitness activities or previous physically demanding work.
How do you work in a team environment?
Give examples of collaborative experiences. Show you understand healthcare is team-based and you’ll support nurses, doctors, and colleagues.
Why do you want to work in this facility/location?
Research the facility beforehand. Mention specific services, values, or opportunities that appeal to you.
Healthcare-Specific Tips
- Show genuine passion for patient care and helping vulnerable people
- Demonstrate understanding of confidentiality and safeguarding
- Emphasize reliability, punctuality, and consistency
- Express willingness to learn and take feedback
- Ask thoughtful questions about team structure, training opportunities, and patient populations
- Mention any relevant volunteer experience or care background
- Show comfort with diversity and inclusion in healthcare
- Express commitment to maintaining dignity and respect for all patients
Moving to Ireland as a Healthcare Assistant
International Recruitment
Ireland actively recruits healthcare assistants from EU/EEA countries and internationally to address care worker shortages. The HSE offers visa sponsorship and relocation support for many roles.
Key Requirements for International Applicants
- English Proficiency: IELTS 7.0+ or equivalent
- Visa Eligibility: Check employment visa schemes for your nationality
- Qualifications Recognition: Healthcare qualifications may need accreditation verification
- Gardaí Vetting: Criminal record check (HSE will guide you)
- References: From recent employers in your home country
- Health Screening: TB testing and medical clearance typically required
Visa Sponsorship & Support
Many HSE and large private healthcare providers offer visa sponsorship for healthcare assistant roles. Contact the facility’s HR department to confirm eligibility and support available.
Housing & Relocation
- Dublin is expensive; consider commuting from surrounding counties (Kildare, Meath, Wicklow)
- Regional cities (Cork, Galway, Waterford) offer lower housing costs
- Join Irish healthcare worker communities online for housing advice and support
Professional Registration
EU/EEA citizens can work as healthcare assistants in Ireland without formal registration. Non-EU applicants should check specific requirements with the HSE or facility.
Career Growth for Healthcare Assistants
Specialization Routes
- Mental Health Support Worker (crisis teams, psychiatric care)
- Disability Support Worker (developmental disabilities, physical disabilities)
- Pediatric Healthcare Assistant (children’s hospitals, family support)
- Community Health Worker (home-based patient support)
- Rehabilitation Assistant (stroke recovery, physical therapy)
- Palliative Care Assistant (end-of-life care, hospice services)
Education & Progression Paths
- QQI Level 4 Healthcare Support Certificate (part-time, employer-sponsored)
- QQI Level 5 Healthcare Support Diploma (advanced care skills)
- Nursing Degree Programs (many employers support HCA-to-nurse pathways)
- Occupational Therapy Assistant Programs
- Physiotherapy Technician Programs
- Specialized care certifications (dementia care, mental health, pediatrics)
Management & Leadership
Senior Healthcare Assistant → Team Lead → Supervisor → Manager roles available for those seeking progression beyond direct care.
Latest Healthcare Assistant Vacancies
Featured Openings
Tips for Success
- Get Certified Early: Pursue QQI Level 4 Healthcare Support Certificate—increases your competitiveness and earnings
- Volunteer First: Gain experience through hospital volunteering or care home support before applying
- Build Soft Skills: Communication, empathy, and teamwork matter most for HCA roles
- Stay Flexible: Willingness to work shifts, weekends, and be adaptable increases job prospects
- Show Commitment: Employers value reliability and genuine passion for patient care
- Consider Progression: Use HCA role as stepping stone to nursing or specialist care careers
- Join Support Networks: Connect with other healthcare assistants for advice and career development
FAQs – Healthcare Assistant Jobs Ireland
What experience do I need to become a healthcare assistant?
No prior healthcare experience is required for entry-level healthcare assistant roles. Employers value willingness to learn, compassion, and reliability over experience. Many provide on-the-job training in manual handling, infection control, and patient care procedures. Voluntary experience in healthcare or social care is beneficial but not essential.
Can I study while working as a healthcare assistant?
Yes. Many healthcare assistants pursue QQI Level 4 or 5 Healthcare Support Certificates while working. Employers often offer flexibility or support for professional development. Some facilities provide paid study leave or tuition reimbursement.
What’s the difference between a healthcare assistant and a care worker?
Healthcare assistants work primarily in clinical settings (hospitals, clinics) supporting nurses and doctors with patient care. Care workers support vulnerable people in community settings, nursing homes, or disability facilities with daily living activities. Both roles are rewarding and in high demand in Ireland.
Do I need a driving license for healthcare assistant jobs?
Not required for hospital-based roles. Community care positions may prefer or require a valid driving license and access to a vehicle, as you’ll travel between patient homes. Check specific job listings.
How long does training take?
HSE and healthcare facilities provide on-site induction training (2–4 weeks) covering safety, hygiene, and basic procedures. QQI Level 4 Healthcare Support Certificate (external qualification) typically takes 6–12 months part-time.
Is gardaí vetting required immediately?
Gardaí vetting is typically completed after you’ve been offered a job (shortlisting stage). The HSE manages the process and covers costs. It usually takes 4–6 weeks.
Can I transfer between healthcare assistant roles?
Yes. Once employed as a healthcare assistant in one facility, you can apply internally for different roles (different wards, specialties, or locations). Internal candidates often have advantages in recruitment.
What shift patterns do healthcare assistants work?
- Hospital roles: Typically day shifts, evening shifts, night shifts, weekends (rostered rotation)
- Community care: More flexible hours, often daytime with some evening/weekend options
- Nursing homes: Variable shifts including weekends and public holidays
- Agency work: Maximum flexibility to choose shifts
Are healthcare assistant roles unionized?
Some HSE and large facility roles are covered by unions including SIPTU, Unison, and Unite. Union membership provides representation on pay, conditions, and disputes.
