Contract Type: Part Time Per Assignment Basis
Location: Multiple Locations Nationwide
Sector: Further Education and Training – SOLAS Craft Apprenticeships
Purpose of the Role
The External Authenticator (EA) provides independent, authoritative confirmation that learner assessment is fair, consistent, and conducted in accordance with national standards. The EA supports quality assurance for craft apprenticeships by validating assessment processes and outcomes during Phase 2 delivery across multiple apprenticeship programmes.
Key Responsibilities
- Moderate assessment results using QQI award specifications and programme validation documents.
- Confirm the validity and consistency of assessments through an agreed sampling strategy aligned with assessment requirements.
- Review internal verification reports and authenticate the findings, including referencing supporting evidence.
- Attend designated centres to engage with relevant personnel and observe assessment practice.
- Exercise impartial professional judgement in identifying any issues or irregularities within the assessment process.
- Make recommendations on the approval of results following moderation.
- Conduct closing meetings with centre personnel to deliver verbal feedback on findings.
- Complete and submit a full External Authentication Report to SOLAS within two working days of each visit.
- Contribute to continuous improvement by identifying areas where further external oversight or remedial action may be required.
- Comply fully with national data protection and confidentiality obligations.
Required Qualifications and Experience
- A minimum of 3 years’ post-qualification experience working in the relevant craft(s).
- Experience in training delivery and assessment.
- Demonstrated occupational competence in the subject matter area.
- Familiarity with QQI standards, awards, and assessment practices.
- Understanding of quality assurance systems within further education and training.
Key Competencies
- Strong analytical and evaluative judgement.
- Clear and professional verbal and written communication.
- Excellent administrative and report writing skills.
- Strong IT proficiency, particularly in Microsoft Office 365.
- Ability to work independently and uphold professional standards of integrity and impartiality.
- Capacity to provide constructive, evidence-based feedback to staff at various levels.
- Comfort with accessing and reviewing digital assessment evidence where applicable.
Additional Information
- EAs must be external to the Centre and not have recent employment or contractual ties with assigned centres.
- External Authentication activities will be scheduled with sufficient notice and may involve travel or remote engagement, depending on programme delivery arrangements.
- The EA must be available for induction and occasional continuing professional development sessions as required.
- All reports must be submitted directly to Hartley People and adhere to the agreed structure and deadlines.
For immediate consideration, please contact Gillian@hptraining.ie or call the office on 051 – 878 813
