Work Environment
This occupation is typically found in the following Career Sector(s):
Videos on the Web
- AI Prompt Engineer - from: Youtube Search
Most commonly reported Work Activities
- Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
- Analysing Data or Information Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
- Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
- Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
- Processing Information Compiling, coding, categorising, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
- Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
- Thinking Creatively Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
- Provide Consultation and Advice to Others Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
- Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Working Life
A Prompt Engineer is a technology professional who creates, tests, and improves instructions, called prompts, to help AI systems produce useful, accurate, and reliable results.
Essentially, a prompt engineer works out the best way to communicate with AI to get the results needed for a particular task or purpose.
What does an AI Prompt Engineer do?
AI Prompt Engineers work with generative AI tools to create prompts that can be used for tasks such as creating content, analysing information, answering questions, solving problems, generating ideas, and automating tasks.
They work with software developers, data scientists, AI specialists, business teams, and other professionals to understand what an organisation needs from AI and develop effective ways of using AI tools.
AI Prompt Engineers may also test different prompts, compare AI responses, identify problems, and make improvements to ensure AI systems produce consistent and appropriate results.
Top 3 Tasks
- Create and improve prompts to help AI systems produce useful and accurate results.
- Test AI responses and adjust prompts to improve the quality and reliability of results.
- Work with teams to develop effective ways of using AI for different tasks and purposes.
Role Tasks
- Prompt Design: Create clear and detailed prompts that give AI systems the information and instructions they need to complete a task.
- Testing & Improvement: Test different prompts, compare results, identify problems, and make changes to improve AI responses.
- AI Applications: Develop prompts for tasks such as content creation, research, data analysis, customer support, and other business activities.
- Problem Solving: Find ways to improve AI outputs when responses are inaccurate, unclear, incomplete, or unsuitable.
- AI Evaluation: Check AI-generated results for accuracy, quality, consistency, and relevance.
- Responsible AI: Help ensure AI is used safely, fairly, responsibly, and in line with organisational policies and requirements.
- Collaboration: Work with technology teams, business users, and other specialists to understand their needs and develop useful AI solutions.
Collaboration
AI Prompt Engineers work with a range of professionals, including software developers, AI specialists, data scientists, business analysts, content creators, product managers, and cybersecurity professionals. They may also work with managers and other employees to identify tasks where AI can improve how work is carried out.
Working Environments
AI Prompt Engineers can work across many industries, including Information and Communications Technology (ICT), financial services, healthcare, MedTech, pharmaceuticals, education, media, retail, manufacturing, professional services, and the public sector.
They may work for technology companies, AI start-ups, Irish-owned businesses or multinational organisations, government departments, universities, or research centres.
Most roles are office-based or hybrid and involve working with computers, AI tools, software applications, and other digital technologies.
Areas where AI Prompt Engineers may specialise include:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Generative AI
- Information & Communications Technology (ICT)
- Software Development
- Data Science & Data Analysis
- Business & Digital Transformation
- Financial Technology (FinTech)
- Healthcare Technology (HealthTech) & MedTech
- Education Technology (EdTech)
- Media, Film, TV & Digital Content
- Marketing & Communications
- Cybersecurity
- Research & Innovation
As AI technology continues to develop, AI Prompt Engineers need to keep learning about new AI tools, techniques, and ways of working.
Search Career Sector to learn about AI across all career sectors.
Most commonly reported Work Tasks
- Verify stability, interoperability, portability, security, or scalability of system architecture.
- Develop system engineering, software engineering, system integration, or distributed system architectures.
- Collaborate with engineers or software developers to select appropriate design solutions or ensure the compatibility of system components.
- Identify system data, hardware, or software components required to meet user needs.
- Communicate with staff or clients to understand specific system requirements.
- Research, test, or verify proper functioning of software patches and fixes.
- Provide advice on project costs, design concepts, or design changes.
- Perform security analyses of developed or packaged software components.
- Provide technical guidance or support for the development or troubleshooting of systems.
- Document design specifications, installation instructions, and other system-related information.
Qualities - AI Prompt Engineer
A successful AI Prompt Engineer needs a combination of digital skills, problem-solving ability, creativity, and good communication skills.
Key qualities include:
- Problem-solving skills: The ability to understand a task, identify problems with AI responses, and find better ways to get the required results.
- Curiosity and willingness to learn: AI tools and technologies are developing quickly, so prompt engineers need to keep learning about new AI systems, tools, and techniques.
- Logical thinking: The ability to break down a task into clear steps and create instructions that an AI system can understand and follow.
- Attention to detail: Small changes to the wording or structure of a prompt can affect the quality, accuracy, and usefulness of an AI response.
- Creativity: The ability to think of different ways to use AI and develop new approaches to prompts and AI-assisted tasks.
- Strong communication skills: The ability to write clear instructions and explain AI-generated results to people with different levels of technical knowledge.
- Teamwork: AI Prompt Engineers may work with software developers, data specialists, marketing teams, content creators, business professionals, and other AI specialists.
- Patience and persistence: Developing effective prompts often involves testing different approaches, reviewing results, and making improvements.
- Ethical awareness: Understanding the importance of responsible AI, including accuracy, fairness, privacy, security, copyright, and the potential impact of AI on people and society.
Employers also value people who can combine digital skills with an understanding of business needs, communicate clearly, adapt to new technologies, and continue learning as AI develops.
Skills for this career pathway include:
- Prompt design and prompt testing
- Generative AI and AI tools
- Clear and effective written communication
- Problem-solving and logical thinking
- Data analysis and information research
- Basic programming and coding, particularly Python
- Understanding of AI and machine learning
- Evaluating and improving AI-generated content
- Knowledge of data protection, privacy, cybersecurity, and responsible AI
Knowledge of AI ethics, data protection, cybersecurity, and responsible use of AI is particularly valuable as organisations increasingly use generative AI in areas such as technology, financial services, healthcare, education, media, and business services.
Interests - AI Prompt Engineer
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Linguistic
The Linguistic's interests are usually focused on ideas and information exchange. They tend to like reading a lot, and enjoy discussion about what has been said. Some will want to write about their own ideas and may follow a path towards journalism, story writing or editing. Others will develop skills in other languages, perhaps finding work as a translator or interpreter. Most Linguistic types will enjoy the opportunity to teach or instruct people in a topic they are interested in.
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Entry / Progression - AI Prompt Engineer
To become an AI Prompt Engineer, you need a good understanding of artificial intelligence, strong communication skills, practical experience with AI tools, and the ability to solve problems and improve AI-generated results.
There is currently no single qualification required to become an AI Prompt Engineer in Ireland. Employers may look for a combination of education, practical experience, digital skills, communication skills, and an ability to work effectively with AI tools.
Building a portfolio of practical AI projects, such as creating and testing prompts for different tasks, can also help demonstrate your skills to employers.
Typical qualifications include:
- An undergraduate degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Digital Media, Business, or a related subject.
- A QQI Level 6-8 qualification in computing, software development, data analytics, or a related area can provide a useful pathway.
- Postgraduate study in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Computer Science, or a related field can be useful for more specialised roles.
- Practical experience using generative AI tools and developing and testing prompts is highly valuable.
Key qualifications and training include:
- QQI Level 6-8 qualifications in Computing, Software Development, Data Analytics, or Artificial Intelligence.
- Higher education courses in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Data Science, or related subjects.
- Short courses and professional training in generative AI, prompt engineering, AI tools, and responsible AI.
- Training in data protection, cybersecurity, and responsible use of AI.
Education and Training Entry Routes:
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that are useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research.
Further Education and Training (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.
Programmes offered through Education and Training Boards (ETBs) and supported by SOLAS can provide entry routes into technology careers, including areas such as software development, data analytics, and AI skills.
SOLAS supports AI-focused micro-qualifications through the Skills to Advance initiative.
SOLAS-funded AI courses are offered through eCollege skills online.
Example search terms include: AI, Computer Science, Emerging Digital Technologies, Data Science.
Search for FET Courses
PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.
Example courses:
- Computer Science with AI (Level 5) – Dublin College Blackrock
- Computer Software Development with AI (Level 5) – Bray Institute of Further Education
- AI and Machine Learning Foundations (Level 5) – Dublin College Dundrum
Search terms include: AI, Computer Science, Emerging Digital Technologies, Data Science.
Search for PLC Courses
Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate)
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.
QQI Level 8
Search for degrees in areas such as computer science, artificial intelligence, data science, software engineering, and machine learning.
Example
- Computing with Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence at TU Dublin – Tallaght
- Computing in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at Dundalk Institute of Technology (DKIT)
Example search terms include: AI, Computer Science, Emerging Digital Technologies, Data Science.
Search for CAO Courses
Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time.
Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).
Examples of Level 9 courses
- Advanced Artificial Intelligence (MSc) at UCD Dublin
- Applied Artificial Intelligence (MSc) at SETU Carlow Campus
- Artificial Intelligence (MSc) at Dublin Business School
- Artificial Intelligence (MSc) at NCI
- Artificial Intelligence (MSc) at MTU Cork Campus (part time)
- MSc in Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) at University of Galway.
This is a distinctive 2-year online masters, taught by an interdisciplinary team of experts in the field of AI and researchers at the Insight Centre for Data Analytics at University of Galway.
Certificate at Level 9
- Level 9 Certificate in Artificial Intelligence – online via University of Limerick
(Students on the National Masters in Artificial Intelligence follow a pathway in Modern Machine Learning, NLP or Computer Vision.)
Example search terms include: AI, Computer Science, Emerging Digital Technologies, Data Science.
Search for Postgraduate Courses
Springboard+ courses:
Government-supported courses that allow eligible learners to upskill or change careers in areas such as computing, data analytics, and artificial intelligence.
The Irish government funds many free and low-cost part-time programs, such as the Certificate in AI and Machine Learning Engineering at South East Technological University.
ICT Skills development courses are also available via Springboard , at NFQ level 6-9
Search Springboard Courses
Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet
- Certificate in Foundations of Artificial Intelligence
This award-winning course has been designed as an introduction to the Foundations of Artificial Intelligence (AI). It is most suitable for those with an interest in, and aptitude for, transitioning into the AI disciplines but who do not necessarily have a background in AI.
- National MSc in Artificial Intelligence (primarily online via University of Limerick)
Students on the National Masters in Artificial Intelligence follow a pathway in Modern Machine Learning, NLP or Computer Vision.
Search Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet
Computer science and engineering degrees:
Many machine learning engineers begin with a degree in computer science, software engineering, mathematics, statistics, physics, or a related subject before specialising in AI.
Postgraduate conversion courses:
Graduates from other fields can move into AI through higher diplomas or masters programmes focused on computing, data analytics, or artificial intelligence.
- University of Limerick: Offers an MSc in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, teaching neural networks and data mining.
- University College Cork: Features an MSc in Mathematical Modelling and Machine Learning, focusing on the math behind algorithms.
- National College of Ireland: Runs an MSc in Artificial Intelligence to teach the complete lifecycle of AI software.
Industry certifications and online learning:
Professional certifications in cloud computing, data science, programming, and AI tools can strengthen job applications when combined with practical projects.
Work experience and projects: Building a portfolio of machine learning projects, contributing to open-source work, completing internships, or gaining experience in software development and data analysis can help develop the skills employers look for.
Apprenticeships:
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.
For example, the Software Development Associate is a two-year apprenticeship. This “learning by doing” format of ICT skills development has been endorsed by the industry and government. Apprentices become competent tech enthusiasts and attain an NFQ Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Computer Programming.
Apprenticeship Examples:
Search for Apprenticeships
Professional Development
Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.
Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.
Pay & Salary - AI Prompt Engineer
Salary Range (thousands per year)* €42k - €95k
Salaries vary by employer, role, duties, locaiton, and experience.
Data Source(s):
Indeed.ie/Glassdoor.ie/SalaryExpert/MorganMckinley
Last Updated: August, 2026
Labour Market Updates - AI Prompt Engineer
The use of generative AI is growing rapidly across organisations, creating new opportunities for AI Prompt Engineers.
AI Prompt Engineers help organisations use AI to create content, analyse information, support customers, automate tasks, and improve business processes. Opportunities are developing across sectors such as technology, financial services, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, professional services, education, media, and the public sector.
The job title AI Prompt Engineer is still relatively new, and similar work may be included in roles such as AI Specialist, Generative AI Specialist, AI Consultant, or AI Solutions Specialist.
Useful skills include working with AI tools, designing effective prompts, solving problems, communicating clearly, and understanding how to use AI safely and responsibly.
AI-related roles are recognised within Ireland's ICT skills shortage areas, creating strong career opportunities for people with skills in programming, machine learning, data science, and software development.
See the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Critical Skills Occupations List for a full list of Ireland’s ICT skills shortage areas.
(A skills shortage in the ICT sector means there is a recognised need for people with these skills. It allows employers to recruit qualified professionals from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) through the Critical Skills Employment Permit scheme, subject to meeting the relevant job and salary requirements.)
Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: IT business analysts, architects and systems designers, Web design and development professionals, Information technology & telecommunications professionals n.e.c.
This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2025).
The annual average employment growth was above average for this occupation over the five-year period, although employment levels have fluctuated over this time; strong employment growth in both 2020 and 2023 more than offset the declines in the other years.
The number of non-Irish citizens far exceeded the national average and almost 2,000 new employment permits were issued (in roles including analysts (data, business, IT), data scientists, network and security engineers and web and UX/UI developers. Online job adverts for these roles included network and cyber security specialists (jobsireland.ie) and IT business analysts, architects and systems designers (Eurostat/CEDEFOP). Difficult-to-fill vacancy mentions (Skills for Growth and Recruitment Agency Survey) included digital and data scientists, cloud security engineers, and SOC (Security Operations Centre) analysts.
Increasing reliance on digital systems as well as global insecurities in recent years, including the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, have fuelled demand for cyber security specialists as organisations recognise the need to safeguard systems against potential cyber security breaches.
Skills to anticipate, manage and address IT security risks across both private and public sector organisations mean security-related skills will be key for this occupation, with shortages occurring for network and security engineers.
Skills shortage:
IT analysts/ engineers
Useful Contacts - AI Prompt Engineer
-
Centre for Applied Data Analytics Research (CeADAR)
- CeADAR University College Dublin NexusUCD Belfield Office Park, Unit 9, Clonskeagh, Dublin 4
- (01) 716 5713
- melina.ziegel@ucd (CeADAR Project Manager)
- Click Here
-
FIT Fastrack into IT
- FIT ltd Unit 2C Donnybrook Commercial Centre Donnybrook, Douglas, Cork
- 021 242 8755
- [email protected]
- Click Here
-
AI Office of Ireland (Oifig IS na hEireann)
-
Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet
-
Irish Computer Society
-
Research Ireland – Taighde Éireann
- Three Park Place, Hatch Street Upper, Dublin 2, Ireland D02 FX65
- 353 1 607 3200
- [email protected]
- Click Here
