Is your ambition to have a career with purpose?
Are you searching for a meaningful career that will impact society?
For Purpose is Ireland’s nonprofit graduate programme. We attract, mentor and develop the future leaders of the nonprofit and charity sector. The programme connects different mission driven organisations with talented graduates who want to make an impact in their careers.
We partner with nonprofit organisations to offer paid graduate jobs across a wide range of career paths ranging from fundraising & communications to property surveying.
For Purpose is continuously adding new graduate job opportunities across a variety of career paths, so keep an eye out for updates!
Starting your career in a nonprofit
- Graduates see advertised job on our Current Vacancies page
- Graduates apply for their desired job
- Following shortlisting process, candidates are invited to undergo interview process
- Final candidates proceed to second round interview
- Successful graduate is selected to commence graduate job with organisation they’ve applied for
- Graduate becomes part of the For Purpose Graduate Programme, gaining a mentor and attending learning seminars
- Candidates can be recruited at any stage of the year and commence in their graduate job according to the organisation’s timeline
Why join For Purpose?
Benefits of For Purpose Graduate Programme
For Purpose is the only graduate programme in Ireland offering paid graduate jobs across the nonprofit sector. We provide you with:
- One-to-one mentoring sessions with experienced professionals that have a background in the nonprofit sector
- Learning seminars hosted by sector leaders
- Access to a professional network
- Opportunities for career progression
- Peer networking opportunities with other graduates on the programme

“For Purpose offers excellent support. The monthly mentoring with an experienced professional gives me guidance on how to navigate my role as well as, my professional development, while the learning seminars provide an excellent opportunity to network”

“The For Purpose Graduate Programme is a brilliant opportunity to do something you believe in while also growing professionally. If you’re a graduate who is eager to make a difference and asking yourself ‘what’s next?’, For Purpose may well provide the answer”
How to Apply for a Graduate Job
Interested in applying to one of our roles, but unsure where to start?
This step-by-step video will give you a quick guide.
Now you’ve decided to apply, make your application stand out with our Top 7 Tips for impressing a potential employer.
Meet more of our grads
FAQs
What is the For Purpose Graduate Programme?
The For Purpose Graduate Programme connects graduates seeking job opportunities with nonprofit organisations.
Are your advertised roles paid?
Yes, our roles are always paid positions. This is one of the great benefits of our programme. Not only do you get the opportunity to kicktstart your nonprofit career, you are also paid, receive your own mentor and attend monthly learning seminars.
Am I applying to work for the For Purpose Graduate Programme?
No. We advertise graduate positions on behalf of the nonprofit organisation. The successful candidate will have full access to the benefits of our programme! However, you are employed by the company you apply for.
I am a current graduate seeking career opportunities, how can I keep track of new jobs?
I’m currently a student. What experience do I need to be a successful candidate?
Ideally, experience in volunteering or the nonprofit sector would be fantastic, this shows your passion for the sector! However, any relevant experience such as part-time jobs, involvement in college societies or extra-curricular activities would benefit your application. Take a look at our current vacancies if you’d like to see the skills our current nonprofits are seeking in a graduate!
Does For Purpose have an annual deadline, like other graduate programmes?
No, there are no looming annual deadlines!
We have continuous graduate opportunities which appear on a rolling basis. Of course, each position has their own application deadline, but job opportunities become available at any time throughout the year!
I am a mature student. Can I still apply for a job with For Purpose?
Yes, you can! Our roles are targeted towards people in their early career, regardless of age. Our positions are usually on the first step of the organisational chart and your salary/level of responsibility will reflect this.