Posted: January 19, 2026Travel remains one of the most important practical considerations for site engineers in Ireland. In 2026, questions around fuel cards and mileage reimbursement come up in almost every offer discussion we manage.
While there is no single universal standard, clear patterns have emerged across the market.
What We’re Seeing in the Market
For permanent site-based engineering roles, employers are increasingly conscious of travel costs as a retention issue. Daily commuting, long distances and rising fuel costs all impact take-home pay and job satisfaction.
As a result, fuel cards are now more common than they were even two or three years ago, particularly for long-term site assignments. Mileage reimbursement remains widely used, but candidates are asking more detailed questions about how it works in practice.
When Fuel Cards Are the Norm
Fuel cards are most often provided where an engineer is assigned to a single main site or a small number of predictable locations. They remove the need for employees to fund travel upfront and provide clarity around costs from day one.
From a candidate perspective, fuel cards offer certainty. From an employer perspective, they simplify budgeting and reduce disputes around claims.
In 2026, many site engineers actively expect a fuel card where travel is a daily requirement rather than an occasional necessity.
Where Mileage Reimbursement Still Applies
Mileage reimbursement remains common in roles involving multiple sites, rotating projects or shorter-term assignments. It is also more prevalent where engineers use their own vehicles exclusively.
That said, candidates are increasingly conscious of the fine detail. Mileage rates, payment frequency, what qualifies as reimbursable travel and whether tolls or parking are covered all matter. Ambiguity around these points can quickly become a source of frustration.
What Candidates Should Clarify Before Accepting an Offer
Travel arrangements can have a real impact on overall earnings. In 2026, site engineers should ensure they understand exactly how travel is handled before accepting an offer, rather than assuming it will “work itself out”.
Clear conversations at offer stage prevent misunderstandings later and put candidates in a stronger position from day one.
What’s Becoming Standard in 2026
Fuel cards are increasingly seen as the preferred solution for permanent site roles, while mileage reimbursement remains acceptable where travel patterns are less predictable. Employers with clear, transparent travel policies consistently attract stronger site engineering candidates and experience fewer early issues.
Final Thought for Candidates
Neither fuel cards nor mileage reimbursement are inherently better. What matters is whether the arrangement reflects the reality of the role and the demands placed on you.
If travel is central to your working week, it should be central to the offer discussion too.