Graduate People Assistant

We are Cunningham. Founded in 2006, Cunningham is one of the UK's and Europe's leading construction companies. With extensive operations across multiple markets, we have built a strong reputation for innovation, quality, and safety, delivering successful projects through a proactive, collaborative approach.

Our expertise spans a diverse range of sectors, including Mission Critical & Life Sciences, Education, Healthcare, Fit Out, Residential, and Civils & Structural projects.

Today, Cunningham employs more than 280 professionals across offices in Ireland, Germany, and the UK. Working in partnership with our clients, we unlock the full potential of every project, transforming ambitious visions into successful outcomes while creating exciting opportunities for our people.

At Cunningham you will be given the opportunity to excel in your career. Our people set us apart, and that’s why we invest in your journey from day one. Your expertise, ambition, and commitment will be recognised and rewarded as you build a successful career with us.

About the Role

We are looking for a motivated and detail-oriented Graduate People Assistant to join our People team on a short-term basis (3 months), with an immediate start available. This is a fantastic opportunity for a recent graduate, or someone who has completed a placement year in HR or a business-related discipline, to gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced, operational environment.

You will play a vital role in ensuring our workforce is compliant, well-coordinated, and ready to operate on-site. This role offers valuable exposure to core People processes, including compliance, onboarding, and site operations, while working closely with internal teams and external stakeholders.

Location: Newry Duration: 3 Months (Fixed Term Contract) Department: People / HR

This is a varied, fast-paced and hands-on role where you will take ownership of key tasks and see them through to completion, making a real impact from day one.

Key Responsibilities

· Coordinate and book mandatory compliance and training sessions for employees

· Support the onboarding process for subcontractors, including setting them up on internal systems

· Carry out validation and compliance checks prior to site access

· Ensure all documentation and records are accurate, up to date, and audit-ready

· Engage with internal stakeholders, managers, and external partners to ensure smooth processes

· Track and follow up on outstanding actions to ensure completion

· Provide general administrative support to the People team

About You

We are looking for someone who is proactive, organised, and thrives on getting things done.

You will have:

· Strong attention to detail and accuracy

· The ability to take ownership of tasks and see them through to completion

· Excellent time management and prioritisation skills

· Confident communication skills, with the ability to engage a wide range of stakeholders

· Strong organisational and administrative skills

Desirable:

· A degree in HR, Business, or a related field

· Some prior experience (placement, internship, or part-time) in a business, HR, training, or administrative role

· Experience coordinating training or working with systems/data

Why Join Us?

· Gain valuable, practical experience within a People/HR function

· Develop skills across compliance, coordination, and stakeholder engagement

· Work in a collaborative team environment

· Build a strong foundation for a career in HR or business operations

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a short cover note outlining your interest in the role.

Company Values

At Cunningham, our culture is built on four core values that guide how we work, lead, and collaborate. All employees are expected to demonstrate these values consistently in their day-to-day role:

· Trust

· Respect

· Can Do

· Teamwork

Cunningham is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified individuals.