Building Stronger Futures for Young People in Kerry.

Mar 18, 2026 | Current Vacancies

Join Our Team at KCYS!

Are you passionate about supporting and empowering young people? Do you want to be part of a dynamic team that makes a real impact in local communities? If so, we want to hear from you! We are now inviting applications for a

UBU Project Worker

(KCYS Killarney)

In KCYS, we are looking for a dedicated and dynamic UBU Project Worker to join our team in Killarney, Co Kerry! This is a unique opportunity to engage with young people (aged 10-24), develop exciting youth programmes, and create positive change in local communities.

KCYS (Kerry Children and Youth Services) is a youth-focused organisation committed to providing meaningful support to young people aged 10 to 24. The UBU – Your Place Your Space project is funded by the Department of Education and Youth through Kerry Education & Training Board (KETB). Our goal is to reach and support young people facing challenges, helping them to develop confidence, resilience, and essential life skills. As a UBU Project Worker, you will be at the heart of this mission, delivering engaging youth programmes, fostering positive relationships, and making a real difference in young people’s lives.

What You’ll Do:

Engage with and support young people who need it most
Develop and deliver creative, fun, and needs-based youth work programmes
Provide a safe and inclusive space for personal growth and development
Advocate for young people and support them in overcoming challenges
Work alongside a passionate and supportive team

Why Join Us?

Meaningful Work – Make a real impact on young lives! – Professional Development – Training & career growth opportunities – Supportive Team – Work in an environment that values creativity & collaboration – Competitive Benefits – Salary, enhanced annual leave, paid sick leave scheme & more

If you’re motivated, passionate, and ready to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you! Join us & experience a quality & inclusive work environment, job satisfaction, flexible working, & more………..

Job Description and post requirements available to download 👉 HERE

www.KCYS.ie, or by request to: humanresources@kcys.ie

Please submit Curriculum Vitae and cover letter outlining your suitability for the post(s) to humanresources@kcys.ie on or before:

12 noon, 7^th April 2026

A panel may be formed from which future vacancies across KCYS may be filled.

Please note – we reserve the right to close or extend this campaign subject to application numbers. Therefore, we would urge you to submit an application as soon as possible.

KCYS is an Equal Opportunities Employer — KCYS is a Gold Standard Health Promoting Youth Organisation — KCYS complies with the Governance Code for Community, Voluntary and Charity Organisations in Ireland

Career Opportunity with KCYS: Centre Operations & Development Assistant

Feb 25, 2026 | Current Vacancies

Want to contribute to positive change for young people in Kerry? We are now inviting applications for a

Centre Operations & Development Assistant

Kerry Community Youth Service (KCYS) is a voluntary youth work organisation providing a range of quality services responding to the needs of children, young people, their families, and communities across the region. We are committed to making a positive difference in young people’s lives and work in line with our core values.

We are seeking a motivated and organised individual to support the Centre Manager in our Tralee Centre and staff team in developing and maintaining the centre as a social enterprise. This varied role involves supporting income generation, administration, promotion, programme delivery, and day-to-day operations, while ensuring the centre is safe, well-maintained, and efficiently run.

Your Role:

Support the development of the centre as a social enterprise, including income generation and funding.
Provide administrative, reception, and operational support.
Promote the centre, its services, and events, including managing online presence.
Support the planning and delivery of community programmes.
Assist with day-to-day operations, caretaking, and health and safety.
Maintain records and ensure compliance with policies and regulations.
Contribute to organisational activities, reporting, and professional development.

Requirements

Eligibility for employment under the *Community Services Programme is mandatory (Check here for eligibility requirements 👉 Citizens Information – Community Services Programme)
A relevant qualification (i.e. Marketing, Social Media, Office Administration) is desirable
Experience in a similar role

Why Join Us?

Meaningful Work – Make a real impact on young lives! – Professional Development – Training & career growth opportunities – Supportive Team – Work in an environment that values creativity & collaboration – Competitive Benefits – Enhanced annual leave, paid sick leave scheme & more

If you’re motivated, passionate, and ready to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you! Join us & experience a quality & inclusive work environment, job satisfaction, flexible working, & more………..

Location: KCYS Denny Street, Tralee, Co Kerry | Contract: 37.5 hours per week | Fixed-Term Contract until 31^st December 2026

(with continuation subject to funding renewal)

Job Description and post requirements available here 👉KCYS Centre Operations & Development Assistant – CSP

Apply by sending your CV and cover letter outlining your suitability to humanresources@kcys.ie on or before:

12 noon, Wednesday 11^th March 2026

A panel may be formed from which future vacancies across KCYS may be filled.

Please note – We reserve the right to close or extend this recruitment process depending on application volume—early submission is encouraged.

KCYS is an Equal Opportunities Employer — KCYS is a Gold Standard Health Promoting Youth Organisation — KCYS complies with the Governance Code for Community, Voluntary and Charity Organisations in Ireland

This project is supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development and Pobal through the Community Services Programme

Empower, support and inspire young people.

Feb 12, 2026 | Current Vacancies

Interested in working in a dynamic & progressive organisation committed to making a real difference in the lives of Young People in Kerry? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you! We are currently recruiting for a

Youth Information Project Worker

Kerry Community Youth Service (KCYS) is seeking an enthusiastic, motivated and values-driven individual to join our Youth Information team. This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people and their families by supporting access to high-quality information, guidance and opportunities.

Working within a young person-centred, rights-based and inclusive framework, the Youth Information Project Worker will support the development and delivery of KCYS Youth Information services across hubs in Killarney and Tralee, through outreach work and a strong digital presence.

The successful candidate will help develop a youth-led information service that promotes social and personal development, youth mobility, participation, and citizenship.

Your Role:

Deliver youth information services across centres, outreach and online.
Provide 1:1 support, group work and information for young people.
Develop digital youth work and engaging online content.
Design and deliver programmes on issues relevant to young people.
Support staff, volunteers and youth participation initiatives.
Connect young people to opportunities, including European mobility.
Maintain records, reporting and safeguarding compliance.

Requirements

A relevant degree in youth work, community work, social care, social work, education or another relevant discipline (exceptional relevant experience may be considered in lieu of qualifications).
Minimum 1 years relevant work experience of Youth Work
Experience of engaging young people using digital tools.

Why Join Us?

Meaningful Work – Make a real impact on young lives! – Professional Development – Training & career growth opportunities – Supportive Team – Work in an environment that values creativity & collaboration – Competitive Benefits – Salary, enhanced annual leave, paid sick leave scheme & more

If you’re motivated, passionate, and ready to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you! Join us & experience a quality & inclusive work environment, job satisfaction, flexible working, & more………..

Contract: 35 hours per week | 12-month Fixed-Term Contract

Job Description and post requirements, click here 👉KCYS Youth Information Project Worker Job Description

Apply by sending your CV and cover letter outlining your suitability to humanresources@kcys.ie on or before:

12 noon, Tuesday 3^rd March 2026

A panel may be formed from which future vacancies across KCYS may be filled.

Please note – We reserve the right to close or extend this recruitment process depending on application volume—early submission is encouraged.

KCYS is an Equal Opportunities Employer — KCYS is a Gold Standard Health Promoting Youth Organisation — KCYS complies with the Governance Code for Community, Voluntary and Charity Organisations in Ireland

An Opportunity to Make a Difference: KCYS Welcomes New Board Members

Jan 15, 2026 | Current Vacancies, News & Events

Kerry Community Youth Service (KCYS) Board is expanding to recruit new non-Executive Directors

ABOUT KCYS:

This is an exciting time to join KCYS, and to guide and steward our further strategic development over the coming years. In 2026 this will include contributing to the articulation of our next Strategic Plan in collaboration with our new incoming CEO.

Founded in 1971 as Kerry Diocesan Youth Service, we are a voluntary youth work organisation providing a range of programmes and services to young people and communities across the entire county of Kerry, the Beara Peninsula and the North West Cork region of Duhallow.

Following extensive consultation with young people, volunteers, stakeholders and the local community, in 2024 we changed our name to Kerry Community Youth Service.

KCYS is a registered charity and operates in accordance with the Charity Regulator guidance. KCYS is Governance Code Compliant and was awarded Triple Lock status in January 2024.

Our vision is for all young people to be valued and supported to achieve their full potential as participating members of the community.

Our mission is that KCYS is a community-based youth work organisation committed to serving all young people in a safe, fun and positive environment, through the provision of youth spaces, services, mentoring, training and ongoing opportunities for their holistic development, and by advocating for their needs.

Our strategic goals for 2023 to 2026 are:

Support young people in Kerry to achieve their full potential
Provide targeted and integrated supports to meet the needs of young people in Kerry and their families
Be recognised as a centre of excellence for youth work
Establish ourselves as an independent young person-centred charity
Strengthen our governance, management and internal coordination
Be an organisation that enables staff and volunteers to deliver and develop

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

In recent years, KCYS has taken great steps to strengthen our governance, management and internal coordination.

In that spirit, we are looking to recruit additional new Non-Executive Directors. We are particularly interested in hearing from interested applicants with one or more the following skills or lived experience:

Human Resources & Industrial Relations.
Legal
Fundraising
Social enterprise and mission-led commercial development
Youth work
Marketing and PR
Charity governance

New Board members will also be expected to Chair or participate in subcommittees of the Board as required.

ELIGIBILITY

Candidates must have the capacity to be an active member of the Board. See information below about time commitment.

Candidates with local knowledge, previous Board experience and a background working with young people and in the voluntary sector are preferred.

Willingness to work with the KCYS Youth Advisory Group and to take the wishes and views of young people in line with our commitment to youth participation is also a priority for KCYS Board members.

Our goal is to maintain a gender balance on the Board.

Candidates would thus ideally be based in Kerry or the neighbouring counties or at least willing to commit to attending a number of in-person meetings per year. Whilst most Board and committee meetings are held online, the Board meets in person twice a year at one of its centres. Trustees are also invited to attend various local events including the AGM and training days.

TIME COMMITMENT & OTHER INFORMATION

You will be expected to attend regular KCYS Board meetings (approx. 10 per year) and the AGM.

You will be expected to actively contribute to one of the Board’s sub-committees.

Most KCYS governance meetings are held virtually on weekday evenings. The full Board meets in person at least twice a year.

(Note that we are in the process of reviewing and strengthening our Board meetings and workings with sub-committees which may impact meeting cadence. More information can be discussed with candidates during the application process.)

KCYS Board may also call single item/specific purpose meetings and working groups on occasion as needed.

You will be expected to devote appropriate preparation time in advance of meetings to read through papers and related documents.

You may also be invited to attend occasional briefings or educational sessions and/or meetings or conferences with staff and volunteers of KCYS.

KCYS will provide new Board members induction training and on-going Board development.

The term of office is three years with an option to be reappointed for a second and third term.

This is a Trustee role. In accordance with Regulatory requirements this role is not remunerated. Necessary and vouched expenses are reimbursed following approval by the Board Chairperson

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

While this role as a Non-Executive Director of KCYS CLG is on a voluntary basis, members have the same legal duties and responsibilities as any Director. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are aware of these duties and responsibilities. If you would like further information about these roles and responsibilities, please contact us.

The CEO is responsible for the day-to day management of the organisation and for implementing the strategy and policies approved by the Board. The CEO is accountable to the Board and will report to the Board regularly on the organisation’s performance.

Board members will be required to sign KCYS’s Code of Conduct for Charity Trustees in order to confirm your intention to comply with its provisions during your term of office.

HOW TO APPLY

Please email a brief CV and cover letter to the following email address:

boardrecruitment@kcys.ie

This recruitment will remain open until we have filled the vacancies on the Board. For further information please contact: boardrecruitment@kcys.ie

Be Part of a Purpose-Led Team Where Finance Supports Impact!

Dec 16, 2025 | Current Vacancies

Do you bring professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to making a difference? Are you looking to apply your finance skills in a role that truly supports young people and communities? KCYS Killarney has an opportunity for you.

Kerry Community Youth Service (KCYS), a deeply rooted and impactful non-profit organisation in County Kerry, is seeking a dedicated

Finance Officer

Killarney based, 12 Month Fixed Term Contract, 28 hours per week,

26 days pro rata annual leave, paid sick leave scheme.

Reporting to the Finance Manager, the Finance Officer will provide a high-quality, efficient, and confidential finance service. The successful candidate will play a key role in payroll, financial reporting, grant management, and statutory compliance, while working collaboratively across the organisation.

This role requires professionalism, discretion, excellent organisational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a busy environment.

At KCYS, you’ll be part of a passionate and dedicated team making a real difference in the lives of young people and families. We’re guided by our core values: Young Person Centred, Inclusive, Respectful, Non-Judgemental, Rights Based, and Empowering. If you’re someone who strives for excellence, we’d love to hear from you.

Why Join Us?

Meaningful Work – Make a real impact on young lives & local community – Professional Development – Training & career growth opportunities – Supportive Team – Work in an environment that values creativity & collaboration – Competitive Benefits – Salary, enhanced annual leave, paid sick leave scheme & more

If you’re motivated, passionate, and ready to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you! Join us & experience a quality & inclusive work environment, job satisfaction, flexible working, & more………..

Job Description and post requirements available here 👉KDYS Finance Officer Job Description

Please submit Curriculum Vitae and cover letter outlining your suitability for the post(s) to humanresources@kcys.ie on or before:

3pm, Tuesday 27th January 2026

A panel may be formed from which future vacancies across KCYS may be filled.

Please note – we reserve the right to close or extend this campaign subject to application numbers.

Therefore, we would urge you to submit an application as soon as possible.

KCYS is an Equal Opportunities Employer — KCYS is a Gold Standard Health Promoting Youth Organisation — KCYS complies with the Governance Code for Community, Voluntary and Charity Organisations in Ireland

Be Part of an Exciting New KCYS Initiative!

Dec 9, 2025 | Current Vacancies

KCYS is launching a new UBU – Your Place Your Space initiative in the Greater Kenmare area, and we are now recruiting dedicated staff to help shape and deliver this exciting project from the ground up.

Are you passionate about empowering young people aged 10–24 and excited by the opportunity to help build a brand-new youth service that will make a lasting difference in the community? If so — we want to hear from you! KCYS is seeking a dynamic UBU Project Leader and UBU Project Worker to join our team in Greater Kenmare, where you will engage with young people, develop creative youth programmes, and contribute to positive change locally.

KCYS (Kerry Community Youth Service) is a youth-focused organisation committed to supporting young people aged 10–24. The UBU – Your Place Your Space project is funded by the Department of Education and Youth through Kerry ETB. Our goal is to reach and support young people facing challenges, helping them build confidence, resilience, and essential life skills.

We Are Recruiting For:

UBU Project Leader

A key role in establishing, developing and leading this new initiative. You will shape programme delivery, support staff, engage stakeholders, and ensure high-quality youth service standards across all areas.