In-demand jobs in Ireland

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Last Updated: October 2025

Summary

This blog covers aspirants looking for in-demand jobs in Ireland? You are in the right place. Ireland’s thriving economy is creating thousands of opportunities across several sectors, and the job market has never been stronger for both local professionals and international talent.

Whether you are a recent graduate, an experienced professional looking to advance your career, or exploring jobs in demand in Ireland for foreigners, this comprehensive guide reveals everything you need to know about the most in-demand jobs in Ireland for 2025.

The Ireland has firmly established itself as Europe’s tech hub, a global leader in pharmaceuticals, and a post-Brexit financial services powerhouse. There are major companies like Google, Meta, Microsoft, Apple, Pfizer, and hundreds of others have chosen Ireland as their European headquarters, creating a massive demand for skilled professionals.

In this guide wel wll try to covers which jobs are in demand in Ireland, detailed salary ranges, qualification requirements, and complete visa pathways for international professionals seeking high demand jobs in Ireland. Let’s explore the career opportunities waiting for you in the Emerald Isle.

Most In-Demand Jobs in Ireland 2025

The Irish job market is experiencing unprecedented growth. According to recent employment data, there are currently over 60,000 job vacancies across the country, with certain sectors facing critical skills shortages. Here are the list of most demanding jobs in Ireland right now.

1. Software Developers & Engineers

Demand Level: Critical Shortage

Software development remains the most sought-after profession in Ireland. With Dublin dubbed the “Silicon Valley of Europe,” the demand for developers shows no signs of slowing down.

Why it’s in high demand:

• Ireland is the country hosts European headquarters for Google, Meta, Microsoft, Apple, Amazon, and LinkedIn
• There are over 1,000 tech companies operating in Ireland
• Wonderful digital transformation across all industries
• Seen uptick in the technology sector is experiencing continuous expansion with a 15% year-over-year growth rate.Key Roles:

• Full Stack Developers
• Frontend Developers (React, Angular, Vue.js)
• Backend Developers (Node.js, Python, Java)
• Mobile App Developers (iOS, Android)
• DevOps Engineers
• Cloud Engineers (AWS, Azure, GCP)

Average Salaries:

• Entry Level: €35,000 – €50,000
• Mid-Level: €55,000 – €80,000
• Senior Level: €80,000 – €120,000+

Skills Needed: JavaScript, Python, Java, C#, React, Node.js, SQL, Git, Agile methodologies

Visa Opportunities: Critical Skills Employment Permit available with salaries over €32,000

2. Healthcare Professionals

Demand Level: Critical Shortage

Ireland’s healthcare sector is actively recruiting both domestically and internationally. The aging population and expansion of healthcare services have created thousands of openings.

Why it’s in high demand:

• Ireland is facing aging population requiring more healthcare services
• Government is continiously investing in the healthcare infrastructure
• Currently the emigration of Irish healthcare workers creating gaps
• The Irish government is actively working to expand the post-pandemic healthcare system.Key Roles:

• Registered Nurses (General, Mental Health, Pediatric)
• General Practitioners (GPs)
• Hospital Consultants
• Occupational Therapists
• Physiotherapists
• Speech and Language Therapists
• Radiographers
• Pharmacists
• Care Assistants

Average Salaries:

• Nurses: €30,000 – €55,000
• GPs: €70,000 – €120,000
• Allied Health: €35,000 – €65,000
• Consultants: €100,000 – €200,000+

For Foreign Professionals: The Irish healthcare system actively recruits from India, Philippines, Pakistan, and Nigeria. The HSE (Health Service Executive) runs international recruitment campaigns regularly.

Requirements:

• Registration with relevant professional body (NMBI for nurses, Medical Council for doctors)
• Qualification recognition through NARIC Ireland
• English language proficiency (IELTS/OET)

3. Data Scientists & Data Analysts

Demand Level: Very High

Every industry in Ireland is undergoing digital transformation, making data professionals among the most needed jobs in Ireland.

Why it’s in high demand:

• Companies need data-driven decision making
• AI and machine learning adoption
• Financial services analytics boom
• E-commerce growth requiring customer insights

Key Roles:

• Data Scientists
• Data Analysts
• Business Intelligence Analysts
• Machine Learning Engineers
• Data Engineers

Average Salaries:

• Entry Level: €40,000 – €55,000
• Mid-Level: €60,000 – €85,000
• Senior Level: €85,000 – €110,000+

Skills Needed: Python, R, SQL, Tableau, Power BI, Machine Learning, Statistical Analysis, Excel

Growth Projection: 28% increase in data science roles expected by 2027

Importance of data science and data analytics studies

4. Cybersecurity Specialists

Demand Level: Critical Shortage

Cybersecurity professionals are among the most sought-after jobs in Ireland, particularly in the current global digitalisation and increasing cyber threat landscape. Cybersecurity professionals are among the highest demand jobs in Ireland.

Why it’s in high demand:

• GDPR compliance requirements
• Increased cyber attacks
• Digital transformation security needs
• Financial services regulations

Key Roles:

• Security Analysts
• Penetration Testers
• Security Architects
• Information Security Officers
• SOC (Security Operations Center) Analysts

Average Salaries:

• Entry Level: €45,000 – €60,000
• Mid-Level: €65,000 – €90,000
• Senior Level: €90,000 – €130,000+

Certifications Valued: CISSP, CEH, CompTIA Security+, CISM, OSCP

Also read Importance of Cyber Security: Protecting Your Digital World

5. Engineers (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical)

Demand Level: Very High

Ireland’s infrastructure boom and housing development have created a significant demand for engineering professionals.

Why it’s in high demand:

• Ireland is working on National Development Plan (€165 billion investment)
• Currently Ireland is facing acute Housing shortage and Housing shortage requiring construction
• Sustainable and renewable energy projects
• Infrastructure modernization

Key Engineering Disciplines:

• Civil Engineers (roads, bridges, infrastructure)
• Mechanical Engineers (manufacturing, design)
• Electrical Engineers (power systems, automation)
• Structural Engineers
• Project Engineers

Average Salaries:

• Graduate Engineers: €32,000 – €42,000
• Chartered Engineers: €50,000 – €75,000
• Senior Engineers: €75,000 – €100,000+

For Foreign Engineers: Engineers Ireland recognition required. Most EU qualifications are recognized. Non-EU qualifications need assessment.

6. Financial Services Professionals

Demand Level: High

Since Brexit, Dublin has established itself as a major European financial centre, creating thousands of demanding jobs in the Ireland financial sector.

Why it’s in high demand:

• After Brexit relocations from London
• Dublin is now Europe’s 6th largest financial center
• Substantial asset management growth
• Fintech expansion is rapidly taking place in Ireland.

Key Roles:

• Accountants (ACA, ACCA, CPA)
• Financial Analysts
• Risk Managers
• Compliance Officers
• Investment Analysts
• Fund Accountants
• Auditors
• Tax Specialists

Average Salaries:

• Newly Qualified: €40,000 – €55,000
• Mid-Level: €60,000 – €85,000
• Senior Level: €85,000 – €120,000+
• Director Level: €120,000 – €200,000+

Qualifications Needed: ACA, ACCA, CPA Ireland, CIMA, CFA

7. Pharmaceutical & Life Sciences Professionals

Demand Level: Very High

Ireland is the world’s number one exporter of pharmaceuticals, making this sector a cornerstone of Ireland in demand jobs.

Why it’s in high demand:

• 9 of the top 10 global pharma companies operate in Ireland
• €89 billion in pharma exports annually
• Continuous expansion and new facilities
• Biotech and MedTech growth

Key Roles:

• Quality Assurance Specialists
• Quality Control Analysts
• Manufacturing Technicians
• Validation Engineers
• Research Scientists
• Regulatory Affairs Specialists
• Clinical Research Associates

Average Salaries:

• Entry Level: €30,000 – €45,000
• Mid-Level: €50,000 – €75,000
• Senior Level: €75,000 – €110,000+

Major Employers: Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, GSK, Novartis, MSD, AbbVie, Boston Scientific

8. Construction Project Managers

Demand Level: Critical Shortage

Recently and in for the past few years Ireland’s housing crisis and infrastructure development have made construction management one of the most in demand jobs in Ireland.

Why it’s in high demand:

• 33,000 new homes needed annually
• Major infrastructure projects underway
• Commercial property development
• Lack of qualified project managers

Key Roles:

• Construction Project Managers
• Site Managers
• Quantity Surveyors
• Building Services Engineers
• Health & Safety Officers

Average Salaries:

• Assistant Project Manager: €40,000 – €55,000
• Project Manager: €60,000 – €90,000
• Senior Project Manager: €90,000 – €130,000+

Requirements: Degree in construction management, engineering, or related field. PRINCE2 or PMP certification beneficial.

9. Digital Marketing Specialists

Demand Level: High

With Ireland hosting European operations for major tech and e-commerce companies, digital marketing expertise is crucial.

Why it’s in high demand:

• E-commerce expansion
• Social media marketing growth
• Tech companies need local marketing teams
• Traditional companies digitalizing

Key Roles:

• SEO Specialists
• PPC Managers (Google Ads, Facebook Ads)
• Content Marketing Managers
• Social Media Managers
• Email Marketing Specialists
• Marketing Analysts

Average Salaries:

• Entry Level: €30,000 – €42,000
• Mid-Level: €45,000 – €65,000
• Senior/Manager Level: €65,000 – €90,000+

Skills Needed: Google Analytics, Google Ads, SEO, Social Media Management, Content Strategy, Marketing Automation

10. Supply Chain & Logistics Managers

Demand Level: High

Post-pandemic supply chain challenges have been significantly heightened this to one of the high demand jobs in Ireland.

Key Roles:

• Supply Chain Managers
• Logistics Coordinators
• Procurement Specialists
• Warehouse Managers
• Operations Managers

Average Salaries:

• Entry Level: €35,000 – €48,000
• Mid-Level: €50,000 – €75,000
• Senior Level: €75,000 – €100,000+

11. Teachers (Specific Subjects)

Demand Level: High (Subject-Specific)

While general teaching isn’t critically short, specific subject areas face severe shortages.

Shortage Subject Areas:

• STEM subjects (Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Technology)
• Irish language teachers
• Special Education Teachers
• Guidance Counselors

Average Salaries:

• Newly Qualified: €37,692
• After 10 years: €56,017
• After 20+ years: €68,045

Requirements:

• Teaching Council registration
• Recognized teaching qualification
• Irish language proficiency (for primary teaching)

12. Veterinarians

Demand Level: High

Ireland has a strong agricultural sector and growing pet ownership, creating steady demand for veterinary professionals.

Average Salaries:

• Newly Qualified: €35,000 – €45,000
• Experienced: €50,000 – €80,000
• Practice Owners: €80,000 – €120,000+

Requirements: Registration with Veterinary Council of Ireland, recognized veterinary degree

13. Sales & Business Development Managers

Demand Level: High

Tech companies expanding across EMEA markets need experienced sales professionals have expertise in Sales and Business Development.

Key Roles:

• B2B Sales Managers
• Business Development Representatives
• Account Executives
• Sales Engineers
• Channel Sales Managers

Average Salaries (Base + Commission):

• Entry Level: €35,000 – €50,000
• Mid-Level: €50,000 – €80,000
• Senior Level: €80,000 – €150,000+

14. Manufacturing Technicians

Demand Level: Very High

It is important to metion that Pharmaceutical and MedTech manufacturing need thousands of skilled technicians.

Key Roles:

• Process Technicians
• Automation Technicians
• Quality Control Technicians
• Maintenance Technicians

Average Salaries:

• Entry Level: €28,000 – €38,000
• Experienced: €40,000 – €55,000
• Senior/Specialist: €55,000 – €70,000

15. Renewable Energy Engineers

Demand Level: Growing Rapidly

Ireland’s ambitious climate targets are creating new opportunities in green energy.

Why it’s in high demand:

• Target: 80% renewable electricity by 2030
• Offshore wind farm development
• Solar energy expansion
• Retrofitting buildings for energy efficiency

Key Roles:

• Wind Energy Engineers
• Solar Energy Specialists
• Energy Efficiency Consultants
• Sustainability Engineers

Average Salaries:

• Entry Level: €38,000 – €50,000
• Mid-Level: €55,000 – €80,000
• Senior Level: €80,000 – €110,000+

High-Demand Jobs in Ireland for Foreigners

Ireland is one of the most welcoming countries for foreign professionals. If you’re exploring jobs in demand in Ireland for foreigners, you’re in luck. The Irish government actively encourages skilled migration through various work permit schemes.

Why Ireland is Ideal for Foreign Professionals

1. Critical Skills Employment Permit This is the fastest and most straightforward work permit for highly skilled professionals. If your occupation is on the Critical Skills list, you can:

• Get a permit without labor market testing
• Bring your family immediately
• Apply for permanent residency after just 2 years (instead of 5)
• Change employers after 12 months

2. English-Speaking Country Unlike other EU countries, no second language is required for most jobs, making integration easier.

3. Diverse, Multicultural Workforce In Dublin’s tech sector, over 40% of workers are non-Irish nationals. You’ll find vibrant international communities from India, Pakistan, Brazil, Poland, Spain, and beyond.

4. Path to EU Residency After 5 years of legal residence, you can apply for Irish citizenship and gain full EU citizenship rights.

5. Competitive Salaries & Quality of Life Ireland offers excellent work-life balance, strong labor protections, and salaries that are among the highest in Europe.

Top Jobs for Foreign Nationals

Technology Roles (Easiest Visa Path)

• Software Developers (all languages)
• DevOps Engineers
• Cybersecurity Specialists
• Data Scientists
• Cloud Architects
• UX/UI Designers

Why it’s easier: Tech companies are accustomed to hiring internationally and handle visa processes efficiently.

Healthcare (Active International Recruitment)

• Registered Nurses
• General Practitioners
• Consultants
• Allied Health Professionals

Why it’s easier: The HSE runs dedicated international recruitment campaigns and provides support with registration processes.

Engineering

• Civil Engineers
• Mechanical Engineers
• Electrical Engineers
• Structural Engineers

Why it’s easier: Clear qualification recognition pathways through Engineers Ireland.

Pharmaceutical & Life Sciences

• QA/QC Specialists
• Manufacturing Technicians
• Validation Engineers
• Research Scientists

Why it’s easier: Industry is accustomed to hiring global talent, with many multilingual work environments.

Countries with Highest Success Rates

Based on work permit approval data, professionals from these countries have particularly high success rates:

Technology:

• India (largest source of tech talent)
• Pakistan
• Brazil
• Eastern Europe (Poland, Romania, Ukraine)

Healthcare:

• India
• Philippines
• Pakistan
• Nigeria
• South Africa

Engineering:

• India
• Pakistan
• Egypt
• South Africa

What Jobs Are in High Demand in Ireland Right Now?

Let’s look at the most current hiring trends as of October 2025.

Q4 2025 Hiring Hotspots

Technology Sector (Highest Activity)

Hottest Roles:

• AI/Machine Learning Engineers (salaries up 15% this year)
• Cloud Security Engineers
• Full Stack Developers (React/Node.js)
• Product Managers
• Site Reliability Engineers

Recent Hiring Announcements:

• Google expanding Dublin office by 500 employees
• Salesforce opening new development center in Limerick
• TikTok increasing Irish workforce by 1,000

Healthcare Sector

Critical Shortages:

• Emergency Department Nurses
• Mental Health Nurses
• Occupational Therapists
• Speech and Language Therapists
• Radiographers

Government Initiative: Health Service Executive is recruiting 3,500 healthcare professionals by end of 2025.

Construction & Trades

Urgent Needs:

• Electricians (licensed)
• Plumbers (licensed)
• Quantity Surveyors
• Site Foremen
• Crane Operators

Why the rush: Housing for All plan requires 33,000 new homes annually through 2030.

Financial Services

Brexit Beneficiaries:

• Fund Accountants
• Risk Analysts
• Compliance Officers
• Investment Operations

Growth Driver: €300 billion in assets relocated from London to Dublin post-Brexit.

Hospitality (Recovering Strongly)

High Demand:

• Hotel Managers
• Executive Chefs
• Front Office Managers
• Revenue Managers

Tourism Recovery: Ireland on track for record 11 million international visitors in 2025.

Why These Jobs Are in Demand in Ireland

Understanding why these positions are in demand helps you target your job search strategically.

1. Tech Hub Status

Ireland is the European headquarters for:

• 9 out of 10 top global tech companies
• 14 of the top 15 global software companies
• Over 80% of global software revenue flows through Ireland

Impact: Creates continuous demand for software developers, data professionals, and cybersecurity experts.

2. Post-Brexit Advantage

Since Brexit, over 100 financial firms have relocated or expanded Irish operations.

Impact: Financial services jobs increased by 35% since 2020.

3. Young, Growing Population

Ireland has the youngest population in the EU (median age 38).

Impact: Growing demand for healthcare, education, housing, and consumer services.

4. Infrastructure Investment

The National Development Plan allocates €165 billion for infrastructure through 2030.

Impact: Engineering, project management, and construction roles are booming.

5. Skills Shortage

Ireland produces approximately 9,000 tech graduates annually but needs 15,000+.

Impact: Companies must hire internationally, making work permits easier to obtain.

6. Foreign Direct Investment

Ireland attracts the highest per-capita FDI in the world.

Impact: New companies = new jobs across all sectors.

7. Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Hub

Ireland produces 8 of the world’s top 10 selling prescription drugs.

Impact: Continuous need for pharma and life sciences professionals.

How to Get High-Demand Jobs in Ireland

For International Applicants

Step 1: Verify Eligibility

Check if your role is on the Critical Skills Occupations List:

• Visit enterprise.gov.ie
• Review both the Critical Skills list and Ineligible Occupations list
• Minimum salary: €32,000 (or €64,000 for General Employment Permit)

Step 2: Qualify Your Credentials

• Use NARIC Ireland for qualification recognition
• Engineers: Get assessed by Engineers Ireland
• Healthcare: Apply to relevant regulatory body (NMBI, Medical Council, etc.)
• Teachers: Register with Teaching Council

Step 3: Master the Irish Job Search

Top Job Boards:

• IrishJobs.ie (largest Irish job board)
• Jobs.ie (excellent for all sectors)
• Indeed Ireland
• LinkedIn (filter location: Ireland)
• Glassdoor Ireland

Specialized Boards:

• Technology: ComputerJobs.ie, Hired.com
• Healthcare: HSEjobs.ie, HealthJobsIreland.com
• Construction: Constructionjobs.ie
• Finance: FinanceJobs.ie

Recruitment Agencies:

• Tech: Reperio, Prosperity Recruitment, Hayden Recruitment
• Finance: Morgan McKinley, Lincoln Recruitment
• Healthcare: MedRecruit, HCR
• Engineering: PM Group Careers, CPL Resources
• General: Hays, Manpower, Adecco

Step 4: Perfect Your Application

Irish CV Format:

• 2-3 pages maximum
• Professional email address
• Irish phone number (get a VoIP number if applying from abroad)
• Clear, chronological format
• Focus on achievements and measurable results
• Include work eligibility status

Cover Letter Tips:

• Always include one (Irish employers expect it)
• 3-4 paragraphs maximum
• Show you understand the Irish market
• Mention if you have visa sponsorship or don’t require it
• Express genuine interest in living in Ireland

Step 5: Interview Preparation

• Research the company thoroughly
• Understand Irish business culture (friendly but professional)
• Prepare questions about visa sponsorship process
• Discuss relocation timeline
• Video interviews are standard for initial rounds

Step 6: Work Permit Application Process

Timeline: 8-12 weeks total

Employer applies for permit:

1. Company must advertise role first (for General Permits only; not required for Critical Skills)
2. Employer submits online application
3. Pays permit fee: €1,000 (Critical Skills) or €1,500 (General)
4. Processing time: 6-8 weeks

You apply for visa: 5. Bring passport, permit approval, job offer, qualifications 6. Apply at Irish embassy/consulate in your country 7. Processing: 2-4 weeks 8. Visa stamp placed in passport

Upon Arrival: 9. Register with immigration within 90 days (IRP card) 10. Get PPSN (Personal Public Service Number) – needed for employment 11. Open Irish bank account 12. Register for tax with Revenue

For Local Candidates & Students

Upskilling for In-Demand Careers

Government-Funded Programs:

Springboard+ (Free Courses)

• Offers free courses in high-demand areas
• Technology, data analytics, cybersecurity, engineering
• Part-time and full-time options
• Open to unemployed and career changers
• Visit: springboardcourses.ie

Skillnet Ireland

• Industry-led training networks
• Highly subsidized courses (10-50% of cost)
• Excellent for employed professionals upskilling
• Visit: skillnetireland.ie

ICT Skillnet

• Specialized in technology training
• Cloud computing, cybersecurity, data science
• Industry-recognized certifications

Online Learning Platforms:

• Coursera (Google Career Certificates accepted in Ireland)
• Udemy (frequent sales on tech courses)
• LinkedIn Learning (free with LinkedIn Premium)
• edX (partnerships with MIT, Harvard)

Building Experience

Internships & Graduate Programs:

• Most large companies offer graduate programs
• Salaries: €28,000 – €35,000
• 1-2 year rotation programs
• Apply: September-November for following year

Major Graduate Employers:

• Accenture, PwC, Deloitte, EY, KPMG
• Google, Meta, Microsoft, Apple, Amazon
• Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, MSD
• Bank of Ireland, AIB, Citi

Salary Expectations for In-Demand Jobs in Ireland

Understanding salary ranges helps you negotiate effectively and set realistic expectations.

Salary by Experience Level

Entry-Level (0-2 years experience)

Mid-Level (3-7 years experience)

Senior-Level (8+ years experience)

Additional Compensation

Beyond Base Salary:

• Bonus: 5-20% of base salary (performance-dependent)
• Pension: Most companies contribute 5-10% of salary
• Health Insurance: Often fully or partially covered by employer
• Annual Leave: Statutory minimum 20 days plus 9 public holidays
• Remote Work: Many roles offer hybrid (2-3 days office)
• Relocation Package: €2,000-€10,000 for international hires

Cost of Living Considerations

Monthly Expenses (Single Person, Dublin):

• Rent (1-bed apartment): €1,600-€2,200
• Groceries: €250-€350
• Transport: €135 (monthly pass) or €200 (car)
• Utilities: €120-€180
• Internet/Phone: €60-€80
• Entertainment/Dining: €300-€500

Total: €2,500-€3,500/month

Outside Dublin (Cork, Galway, Limerick): 20-30% cheaper

Tax Rates (2025)

• First €44,300: 20% tax
• Above €44,300: 40% tax
• USC (Universal Social Charge): 0.5-8%
• PRSI (Social Insurance): 4%

Effective Tax Rate Examples:

• €40,000 salary: ~23% total tax
• €60,000 salary: ~31% total tax
• €80,000 salary: ~35% total tax

Future Job Trends: Ireland Demand Jobs 2025-2030

It is important to discuss forecast and looking ahead, these emerging sectors will create new high-demand jobs in Ireland.

Green Economy & Climate Tech

Ireland aims for 51% emissions reduction by 2030, creating thousands of new jobs.

Emerging Roles:

• Carbon Accounting Specialists
• ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) Consultants
• Circular Economy Managers
• Sustainable Supply Chain Experts
• Environmental Data Analysts
• Green Building Specialists
• EV Charging Infrastructure Engineers

Salary Range: €45,000 – €95,000

Growth Projection: 45% increase in sustainability roles by 2028

Advanced Digital Technologies

Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning:

• AI Ethics Specialists
• Prompt Engineers
• Machine Learning Operations Engineers
• Computer Vision Specialists
• NLP (Natural Language Processing) Engineers

Blockchain & Web3:

• Blockchain Developers
• Smart Contract Auditors
• Crypto Compliance Officers

Extended Reality:

• AR/VR Developers
• Metaverse Architects
• 3D Experience Designers

Quantum Computing:

• Quantum Algorithm Developers
• Quantum Hardware Engineers

Salary Range: €60,000 – €130,000+

Healthcare Innovation

Telemedicine & Digital Health:

• Telehealth Platform Coordinators
• Digital Health Product Managers
• Health Data Scientists
• Medical App Developers

Precision Medicine:

• Genetic Counselors
• Bioinformatics Specialists
• Personalized Medicine Specialists

Mental Health:

• Clinical Psychologists (critical shortage)
• Mental Health Nurses
• Psychotherapists

Salary Range: €45,000 – €110,000

Automation & Robotics

Ireland’s manufacturing sector is rapidly automating.

New Roles:

• Robotics Process Automation Specialists
• Automation Engineers
• Industrial IoT Specialists
• Cobot (Collaborative Robot) Programmers

Salary Range: €50,000 – €90,000

Frequently Asked Questions: Jobs in Demand in Ireland

Q: What are the most needed jobs in Ireland right now?

The most needed jobs in Ireland currently are software developers, registered nurses, construction workers, and engineers. The technology sector alone has over 15,000 vacancies, while healthcare needs approximately 3,500 professionals immediately. If you have skills in any of these areas, finding employment in Ireland should be straightforward.

Q: Can foreigners easily get high-demand jobs in Ireland?

Yes, foreigners with skills in Critical Skills Occupations can obtain work permits without labor market tests, making the process significantly easier. The Irish government actively encourages skilled migration, and over 10,000 Critical Skills Employment Permits were issued last year. Technology and healthcare sectors are particularly welcoming to international talent, with many companies having established processes for visa sponsorship.

Q: Which job has the highest demand in Ireland?

Software developers and ICT professionals have the highest demand, with over 15,000 vacancies nationwide. Within this category, cloud engineers, cybersecurity specialists, and full-stack developers are particularly sought after. These roles typically offer salaries ranging from €50,000 to €120,000 depending on experience.

Q: Are there demanding jobs in Ireland for non-EU citizens?

Absolutely. Ireland actively recruits non-EU professionals for healthcare, technology, engineering, and financial services roles. The Critical Skills Employment Permit makes it straightforward for qualified non-EU citizens to work in Ireland, with no requirement for employers to prove they couldn’t find an EU candidate first. Additionally, after holding a Critical Skills permit for 2 years, you can apply for permanent residency.

Q: What careers are in demand in Ireland for recent graduates?

Recent graduates find excellent opportunities in software engineering, data analysis, digital marketing, pharmaceutical quality assurance, and financial services. Most large companies offer graduate programs with salaries ranging from €28,000 to €40,000, structured training, and clear career progression. The technology sector is particularly graduate-friendly, with companies like Google, Meta, and Microsoft hiring hundreds of graduates annually.

Q: How much do high-demand jobs in Ireland pay compared to other EU countries?

Ireland offers some of the highest salaries in the EU. For example, software developers in Ireland earn 20-40% more than counterparts in Germany or France. However, the cost of living, particularly housing in Dublin, is also higher. That said, take-home pay remains competitive, and quality of life is excellent. Outside Dublin, costs drop significantly while salaries remain strong.

Q: Do I need to speak Irish to get a job in Ireland?

No, English is sufficient for virtually all jobs in Ireland. Irish language skills are only required for specific government positions and primary school teaching roles. In fact, many workplaces are multilingual, with employees from dozens of countries. The business language is English, and all official processes can be conducted in English.

Q: What’s the work-life balance like in high-demand Irish jobs?

Ireland generally offers excellent work-life balance compared to many countries. The standard working week is 39-40 hours, with statutory minimum of 4 weeks annual leave plus 9 public holidays (totaling 29 days off). Many companies offer additional benefits like flexible hours, remote work options, and generous parental leave. The tech sector, in particular, is known for good work-life balance.

Q: How long does it take to get a job offer in Ireland as a foreigner?

The timeline varies by sector and your experience level. For highly sought-after skills (software development, data science), you could receive offers within 2-4 weeks of active job searching. Healthcare roles may take 2-3 months due to registration requirements. The complete process from application to starting work typically takes 3-5 months, accounting for interviews, offer, work permit processing, and relocation.

Q: What’s the job security like for in-demand jobs in Ireland?

Job security in high-demand sectors is generally excellent. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ireland’s unemployment rate remained relatively low, and technology, pharmaceutical, and healthcare sectors continued hiring. Irish employment law provides strong worker protections, including redundancy payments and notice periods. The sustained demand for skilled workers means job mobility is high if you want to change employers.

Top Cities for In-Demand Jobs in Ireland

Dublin

Population: 1.4 million (metro area)

Industries: Technology, Finance, Professional Services, Pharmaceuticals

Major Employers: Google, Meta, Facebook, Microsoft, Apple, Accenture, PwC, Citi, Bank of America

Pros:

• Highest number of job opportunities
• Best networking opportunities
• International environment
• Excellent public transport
• Cultural activities and nightlife

Cons:

• Highest cost of living
• Rental crisis (difficult to find accommodation)
• Traffic congestion
• More competitive job market

Average Salaries: 10-15% higher than other Irish cities

Best For: Tech professionals, financial services, career starters wanting maximum opportunities

Cork

Population: 210,000 (city), 300,000+ (metro)

Industries: Pharmaceuticals, Technology, MedTech

Major Employers: Apple (European HQ), Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, Eli Lilly, VMware, Dell EMC

Pros:

• Lower cost of living (30% cheaper than Dublin)
• Growing tech scene
• Better quality of life
• Easier to find accommodation
• Coastal city with beautiful surroundings

Cons:

• Fewer job opportunities than Dublin
• Smaller expat community
• Limited public transport
• Rain (it’s in the south but still Ireland!)

Average Salaries: 5-10% lower than Dublin but much lower living costs

Best For: Pharma/life sciences, established tech professionals, those wanting work-life balance

Galway

Population: 80,000 (city), 180,000 (county)

Industries: Medical Devices, Technology, Life Sciences

Major Employers: Boston Scientific, Medtronic, SAP, Cisco

Pros:

• Vibrant cultural scene
• University city (young population)
• Beautiful Atlantic coast location
• Strong community feel
• Growing tech sector

Cons:

• Smaller job market
• Accommodation shortage
• Limited to specific sectors
• Weather (Atlantic storms)

Average Salaries: Similar to Cork

Best For: MedTech professionals, those prioritizing lifestyle, students

Limerick

Population: 95,000 (city), 195,000 (metro)

Industries: Technology, Medical Devices, Financial Services

Major Employers: Johnson & Johnson, Analog Devices, Dell, Northern Trust, Regeneron

Pros:

• Significantly cheaper than Dublin (40% lower costs)
• Rapid development and investment
• Good quality of life
• Easy access to Shannon Airport
• Growing startup scene

Cons:

• Smaller job market
• Fewer cultural amenities
• Some areas still regenerating
• Limited nightlife

Average Salaries: 10-15% lower than Dublin

Best For: Medical device sector, financial operations roles, families

Waterford

Population: 54,000

Industries: Pharmaceuticals, Medical Technology, Manufacturing

Major Employers: Bausch + Lomb, Sanofi, West Pharmaceutical

Pros:

• Very affordable
• Quality of life
• Coast and countryside nearby
• Less competitive job market

Cons:

• Limited job opportunities
• Smaller expat community
• Fewer career progression options

Best For: Pharma/manufacturing, those seeking quiet lifestyle

Resources for Job Seekers

Job Search Platforms

General Job Boards:

• IrishJobs.ie
• Jobs.ie
• Indeed.ie
• LinkedIn Ireland
• Glassdoor Ireland

Sector-Specific:

• Tech: ComputerJobs.ie, Dice.com
• Healthcare: HSEjobs.ie, HealthJobsIreland.com
• Finance: FinanceJobs.ie
• Construction: Constructionjobs.ie
• Hospitality: CatererGlobal.com

Graduate Programs:

• GradIreland.com (comprehensive graduate program listings)
• Company websites (apply directly)

Recruitment Agencies

Technology:

• Reperio Human Capital
• Morgan McKinley Technology
• Prosperity Recruitment
• Lincoln Recruitment

Finance & Accounting:

• Morgan McKinley
• Hays Recruitment
• CPL Resources
• Sigmar Recruitment

Healthcare:

• HCR (Healthcare Recruitment)
• MedRecruit
• Brightwater Recruitment

Engineering:

• PM Group Careers
• Brunel
• ESCI Engineering

General:

• Manpower Ireland
• Adecco Ireland
• Matrix Recruitment

Professional Bodies & Registration

Engineering:

• Engineers Ireland www.engineersireland.ie
• Recognition of qualifications
• CPD (Continuing Professional Development)

Healthcare:

• NMBI – Nursing & Midwifery Board of Ireland (nurses)
• Medical Council (doctors)
• CORU (allied health professionals)
• Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (pharmacists)

Accounting & Finance:

• Chartered Accountants Ireland
• ACCA Ireland
• CIMA Ireland

Teaching:

• Teaching Council of Ireland

Legal:

• Law Society of Ireland
• Bar Council of Ireland

Government Resources

Work Permits & Immigration:

• Department of Enterprise (enterprise.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Workplace-and-Skills/Employment-Permits/)
• Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (inis.gov.ie)

Training & Upskilling:

• Springboard+ (springboardcourses.ie) – Free courses
• Skillnet Ireland (skillnetireland.ie) – Subsidized training
• Intreo – Public employment service

Business Support:

• Enterprise Ireland (support for startups)
• Local Enterprise Offices

Salary & Market Information

Salary Surveys:

• Morgan McKinley Salary Guide (annual publication)
• Hays Salary Guide
• CPL Salary Survey
• Glassdoor Ireland (company reviews & salaries)

Cost of Living:

• Numbeo.com (cost of living comparisons)
• Daft.ie (rental prices)
• MyHome.ie (property prices)

Networking & Community

Meetup Groups:

• Dublin Tech Meetups
• Women in Tech Ireland
• Python Ireland
• Data Science Ireland
• Various tech stack specific groups

LinkedIn Groups:

• Ireland Jobs
• Tech Jobs Ireland
• Healthcare Professionals Ireland

Expat Communities:

• InterNations Ireland
• Expat.com Ireland forums
• Facebook expat groups by nationality

Key Takeaways

Ireland’s job market offers exceptional opportunities for both local and international professionals. The most demanded jobs in Ireland span technology, healthcare, engineering, construction, and financial services, with competitive salaries and clear career progression paths.

Whether you’re exploring Ireland in demand jobs as a recent graduate, an experienced professional considering relocation, or a foreign national seeking demanding jobs in Ireland, the opportunities are substantial and diverse. The country’s young population, thriving economy, and position as Europe’s tech hub ensure continued growth across multiple sectors.

Key Takeaways:

1. Technology remains king – Software development, data science, and cybersecurity offer the most opportunities and highest salaries
2. Healthcare is critically short – Nurses, doctors, and allied health professionals are urgently needed with active international recruitment
3. Work permits are accessible – Critical Skills Employment Permit makes it straightforward for qualified professionals to work in Ireland
4. Salaries are competitive – Among the highest in the EU, though Dublin’s cost of living is high
5. Quality of life is excellent – Work-life balance, English-speaking, safe, and welcoming culture
6. Future is bright – Emerging sectors like AI, green tech, and digital health will create thousands of new opportunities

Your Next Steps

If you’re in Ireland:

1. Review the in-demand sectors above
2. Identify gaps in your skills
3. Use Springboard+ or Skillnet for free/subsidized training
4. Update your CV to highlight relevant experience
5. Start applying through IrishJobs.ie and LinkedIn

If you’re abroad:

1. Check if your role is on the Critical Skills list
2. Get qualifications assessed (NARIC Ireland)
3. Research salary expectations for your role
4. Create an Irish-style CV
5. Apply through international job boards and LinkedIn
6. Connect with recruitment agencies specializing in visa sponsorship
7. Join expat communities for insights

For Students: Study in Ireland

1. Research graduate programs (apply September-November)
2. Build relevant skills through internships
3. Network through LinkedIn and university career services
4. Consider Springboard+ courses to complement your degree
5. Target growing sectors like tech and pharma

Ireland welcomes talent from around the world. With the right skills, preparation, and persistence, you can secure one of the many high-demand jobs in Ireland and build a successful career in this thriving economy.

Ready to start your Irish career journey? Begin your job search today on IrishJobs.ie, LinkedIn, and through specialized recruitment agencies. The opportunities are waiting!

About CC Consultings

CC Consultings specializes in helping international students and professionals navigate their career journey in Ireland. From visa assistance to job placement support, we provide comprehensive guidance for those seeking to study and work in Ireland. Contact us today to learn how we can help you achieve your career goals in Ireland.

Last Updated: October 2025

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Related Resources

• Study in Ireland: Complete Guide 2025
• Ireland Work Visa Requirements