The latest IrishJobs Jobs Index paints a picture of a resilient labour market with a positive outlook for the year ahead. While overall job vacancies dipped slightly compared to the previous quarter, the decrease was the lowest in six months, indicating a steadier pace of hiring in 2024.
Construction and Property on the Rise
Exciting news for those in the building and development fields! The Construction sector saw a 20% increase in job openings compared to the last quarter. This surge reflects the high demand for skilled professionals needed to address Ireland’s ambitious housing goals. Quantity Surveyors were the most sought-after role, highlighting the need for expertise in project cost estimation and management.
The Property sector also enjoyed a 10% growth in vacancies, mirroring the strong residential market. Facilities Coordinators, Managers, and Engineers were in high demand, indicating continued growth in property management despite a slowdown in commercial activity.
Education Steps Up Recruitment
The Education sector emerged as the champion of job growth, experiencing a 24% increase in vacancies compared to the last quarter. This hiring surge is driven by third-level institutions like UCD, MTU, and SETU seeking Assistant Professors and Lecturers across various disciplines. Additionally, the childcare sector’s ongoing needs are reflected in the rise of Early Years Educator and Childcare Practitioner positions.
IT Sector Stabilizes After Pandemic Boom
The IT sector, while experiencing an 8% decline in vacancies compared to the last quarter, remains a dominant employer, accounting for 5.5% of all advertised jobs. This decrease seems like a natural correction after the growth during the pandemic. Interestingly, this quarter’s decline is the smallest since late 2022, suggesting the sector is finding a new equilibrium.
Other Sectoral Trends
Several other sectors displayed positive growth in job openings, including Engineering, Manufacturing, Science, and Accountancy. This signals a broad-based recovery across the Irish economy.
Jobseekers Remain Active
Jobseeker activity, a measure of online job search volume, continues its upward trend, increasing by 7% year-on-year. This indicates a strong pool of talent available for employers.
Remote Work Showing Signs of Stabilization
Remote working opportunities, which had been steadily declining in the past two quarters, dipped by 10% in the first three months of 2024. This suggests a potential stabilization or even a reduction in the overall level of work-from-home options in Ireland. However, the recently launched government code of practice for flexible and remote work arrangements may counter this trend in the future.
Looking Ahead: A Competitive Market with Focus on Skills
The IrishJobs report predicts a competitive hiring landscape throughout the year, fueled by strong jobseeker activity and a moderate pace of new job openings. Overall, the Irish Job Market Q1 report reveals a period of adjustment and positive shifts across various sectors. It’s a promising sign for the continued growth and development of the Irish economy.
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