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.
•   Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
•   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.
•   Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
•   Processing Information Compiling, coding, categorising, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
•   Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
•   Documenting/Recording Information Entering, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
•   Thinking Creatively Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.

Working Life

Most commonly reported Work Tasks

• Design test plans, scenarios, scripts, or procedures.
• Document software defects, using a bug tracking system, and report defects to software developers.
• Identify, analyse, and document problems with program function, output, online screen, or content.
• Develop testing programmes that address areas such as database impacts, software scenarios, regression testing, negative testing, error or bug retests, or usability.
• Participate in product design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, product designs, schedules, or potential problems.
• Document test procedures to ensure replicability and compliance with standards.
• Plan test schedules or strategies in accordance with project scope or delivery dates.
• Conduct software compatibility tests with programmes, hardware, operating systems, or network environments.
• Test system modifications to prepare for implementation.
• Monitor bug resolution efforts and track successes.

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.

 Administrative

Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.

They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.

Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research. 

Further Education (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.

Example search terms include: ICT skills development, automated software testing, software development.  

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 search terms include: Software development, apps, games, network architecture. 

Search for PLC Courses

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.

Examples: ICT Software Developer, Cyber security, Software Solutions Architect.  

Search for Apprenticeships

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.

Example search terms include: Computing, software development, computing with software development, software systems development, applied computing, computer science, computing.  

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).

Example search terms include: Advanced software engineering, applied software development, computer science advanced, software development, computing, enterprise software systems, software design and development.  

Search for Postgraduate Courses

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.

Salary Range (thousands per year)* €40k - €120k

Salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, duties, and role.

Data Source(s):
Morgan McKinley/ Clark/ Lincoln/ Abrivia/ Archer/ Brightwater/ Azon

Last Updated: April, 2024

Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Programmers and software development professionals.

This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2025).

Employment grew strongly for software developers/programmers between 2019 and 2022; following a fall in employment in 2023, it grew strongly in 2024 (by 7,400 persons), above 2022 levels.

Three quarters of employment was in the ICT sector with the remainder spread across sectors including financial, professional activities and industry. Less than a fifth of those employed were women, and 41% were non-Irish citizens which is over double the national average. Almost 2,400 new employment permits were issued in 2024 for various software developer/engineer roles.

The Recruitment Agency Survey highlighted issues in filling vacancies for software developer/ engineer roles with Skills for Growth data pointing to issues relating to cyber security, cloud security, AI, and DevOps and those with sales and innovation skills. Future demand for this occupation, especially entry-level roles, may be eased somewhat due to advances in technology, particularly if the adoption of artificial intelligence and increased automation extends to small and medium-sized firms and across sectors.

The share of online job adverts for these roles has declined in recent years and Indeed’s Job Posting Index for the UK and US shows a sharp fall in postings related to software development. Nonetheless, practical constraints on the widespread implementation of such technologies (e.g. finance, personnel and skills availability), as well as the demand to keep pace with emerging technologies, mean that shortages for this occupation, especially for senior roles, will persist.  

Skills shortage:

Software developers/ engineers

• FIT Fastrack into IT

  • FIT ltd Unit 2C Donnybrook Commercial Centre Donnybrook, Douglas, Cork
  • 021 242 8755
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here

• Irish Software Association

  • Confederation House, 84/86 Lower Baggot St. Dublin 2
  • (01) 605 1500
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here

• Irish Computer Society

  • Click Here