Marine Planning Advisor The Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA) is a new independent body responsible for the sustainable management of Irelands diverse and unique maritime area, brought about by the enactment of the Maritime Area Planning Act 2021 (MAP Act). Established in July 2023, as part of the biggest reform of marine governance in Ireland in almost a century, MARA will be key to the transformation of our maritime governance regime. The system and structures set out in the MAP Act are key legal enablers of development and the protection of the environment and cultural heritage in the maritime area for the future generations, including the envisaged expansion of the offshore renewable energy sector required to meet Irelands 2030 climate goals in an integrated and sustainable manner. The Role: The successful candidate(s) will fill the role of Marine Planning Advisor (Eng. Grade II). A panel will be formed from this recruitment campaign from which future Marine Planning Advisor (Eng. Grade II) vacancies may be filled. The vacancy will be filled in the Assessment, Research and Data Unit, MARA, Wexford. The assignments and area of work may subsequently change in accordance with the developing organisational requirements for MARA. The Marine Planning Advisor will perform an essential role in the delivery of statutory functions of MARA. The successful candidate will report to the Senior Marine Advisor and will be responsible for technical analysis and input into the delivery of MARAs functions including providing planning advisory and consultations on behalf of MARA as prescribed body and consultee on marine planning applications and development plan reviews. The role of the Assessment, Research and Data Unit is to provide professional planning, environmental, engineering and other technical assessments, advice and recommendations within the organisations in respect of MARAs, consenting, monitoring, prescribed body, compliance and enforcement functions. It also involves leading the development of MARAs research and data integration functions. Key Duties and Responsibilities: Providing support and advice on marine spatial planning matters in order to ensure the provision of accurate, effective and timely professional advice in respect of marine planning policy, legislation and guidance. Reviewing maritime planning applications and formulating submissions to An Bord Pleanla and Coastal Planning Authorities to fulfil MARAs prescribed body function; Promoting the development of best planning practice through the provision of advice and guidance internally within MARA, and with other relevant stakeholders and authorities, in the discharge of their marine planning and development functions, particularly where they relate to, or impact on, the maritime area. Working collaboratively with colleagues within MARA and across Government and relevant agencies, as well as the local government sector and other stakeholders on marine planning-related matters, including the land-sea interactions. This includes participation in various collaborative structures with other multi-disciplinary teams and cross-divisional and inter-departmental working groups. Preparation of high-quality written reports for internal and external stakeholders. Supporting the implementation of the National Marine Planning Framework, National Planning Framework, Marine Planning Policy Statement, Marine Spatial Planning Directive, Water Framework Directive, Marine Strategy Framework Directive and the Climate Action Plan; Collaborating with colleagues to develop and maintain a GIS database and maritime planning register for MARA; Providing support and advice on planning matters where required in relation to maritime usage licences and maritime area consents; Support the work of the Compliance, Enforcement and Regulation Unit to ensure compliance with An Bord Pleanla consents and other planning enforcement functions under the Planning & Development Act, 2000 (as amended), Planning & Development Act 2024 (when enacted) and the Maritime Area Planning Act, 2021 (as amended), relating to the maritime area; Preparing guidance documents and/or technical training relating to stakeholders and implementation of the Planning & Development Act, 2000 (as amended) and Maritime Area Planning Act, 2021 (as amended); Representing MARA at meetings, conferences, professional networks and other fora both at home and possibly abroad, including European/International aspects of marine planning, with a view to benefitting marine planning practice in Ireland. Participating in cross team working groups within MARA; When required, represent MARA in legal proceedings. In addition to the above, other general duties may include: Supervising, motivating and developing staff through PMDS Contract tendering, evaluation and procurement of external resources Preparing high quality reports for internal and external stakeholders Proactively maintain and implement health and safety protocols Participating in inter-organisational groups to effectively implement national plans and policies Application and further information For further information and to apply for this role visit or see attachments below: Applications should be submitted via email and must include: A completed Application Form outlining why you wish to be considered for the post and how your skills and experience meet the requirements for the position Only applications fully submitted will be accepted into the campaign. To apply for this role candidates must submit the relevant, signed and completed application form by email. Closing Date: Deadline for application: Please note latest receipt for applications is Monday 25th August 2025 at 1pm. Incomplete applications, postal applications or CVs will not be accepted. Any applications received after the closing date and time will not be considered. An acknowledgement email will be issued for all applications received. If you do not receive acknowledgement of your application within two working days of submission, please contact Osborne Recruitment to ensure your application has been received. #INDOSB2 #INDTQUINN