Ireland’s Most In-Demand Tech Jobs

Part of this interview featured on Silicon Republic here: https://www.siliconrepublic.com/careers/ireland-most-in-demand-tech-jobs-skills-working-life-it-search

In 2025 we saw companies really define priorities around what skills will move the needle for their business. The focus for 2026 is a clear direction on where technology adds real value. Cybersecurity remains top of the list and is no longer viewed as purely an IT issue but rather a fundamental business issue. The reality is that every business, regardless of size, is now a potential target, and that has created sustained demand for people who can protect systems, data and reputations. AI has also moved to a core business strategy. We’re seeing real-world implementation across finance, healthcare and manufacturing. Businesses now want people who can turn AI theory into commercial outcomes, which is driving demand for AI engineers and MLOps talent.

Cloud adoption has evolved from migration to optimisation – getting the most out of what’s already in place, with a focus on cost control and security. That’s why we’ve seen a surge in DevSecOps and platform engineering talent demands. Software development is still the backbone of tech hiring in Ireland. Java leads the way for Enterprise, Python for Data, and JavaScript / Node.js for Start-ups. Strongest demand remains for Coates who understand automation, APIs and how to build scalable, secure systems.

What are the most important skills / qualifications for each of these areas?

• Cybersecurity: Employers want a mix of solid fundamentals and recognised certifications. Degrees in computer science help, but certs like CISSP, CISM or Security+ tend to carry more weight. Practical exposure to cloud security, SIEM tools and regulatory standards like ISO 27001 or NIS2 are what get candidates hired.
• Artificial Intelligence: Programming is key — Python is the common language here. Beyond that, experience with PyTorch or TensorFlow. The real edge comes from being able to translate business problems into workable AI models.
• Cloud Engineering / Architecture: Hands-on experience counts as much as formal education. AWS, Azure or GCP certifications are valuable signals. Most in-demand are those who can design secure, efficient systems using Kubernetes, Terraform, and CI/CD pipelines. Cost governance and security awareness are now seen as core parts of the role.
• Software Development: Still the broadest career path. Java dominates large enterprise work, while JavaScript and Python power most of the modern start-up scene. Employers want engineers who can design scalable systems, write clean code and deliver tested, reliable products. Showing how your work impacted business outcomes is what stands out.
• AI Engineering: Think of this as the middle ground between software and data science. You need the ability to build and deploy models. Strong Python, microservices experience, and knowledge of MLOps tooling are all essential. Domain knowledge — finance, health, retail — is becoming a major advantage.
• MLOps: This role is about bringing order to the AI lifecycle. Again, Python is key with CI/CD for ML, experience with data versioning and model monitoring is standard. Employers want people who can bridge data science and production, ensuring reliability, traceability and compliance.
• DevSecOps: Certifications such as CCSK or CKA/CKS are respected, but again, what matters most is proving you can automate and enforce security across the development process. Experience in compliance automation for GDPR/ISO 27001/SOX are in high demand

Is a college degree necessary, or is there room for alternatively skilled professionals?

There are certainly opportunities for people who come through alternative routes into Tech. Generally, employers in Ireland care more about what you can demonstrate than the route you took to learn it. In cybersecurity, cloud and software, certifications and real-world projects are enough to get in the door. The only areas where a lack of formal degree will still be a blocker tend to be in research-heavy AI roles or regulated sectors like medtech and finance.

How can applicants narrow down their options in such a fast-moving industry?

1. Think about the problems you want to solve, not just the tech tools you want to use. Shortlist 2–3 sectors that interest you (Security, Health Tech, Green Technology, Automation etc)
2. Look at what skills you already have — whether that’s scripting, networking, or analytical experience — and match them to sectors above. From there, pick one area to specialize and supporting skills needed for success in this
3. Set a one-year plan: one strong certification, one end-to-end project, and ideally something you can showcase publicly. Try and focus us on skills that can compound quickly – such automation, cloud, or AI
4. Finally, watch where investment is flowing. FDI announcements and funding rounds are often the best predictors of future hiring trends

What’s your outlook for 2026?

Overall, Ireland’s tech market is in good shape. Growth may be slower, but the quality and strategic importance of the roles is increasing. It’s a great time for technically curious people to deepen their skills and carve out a niche.

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