Most commonly reported Work Tasks

• Analyse information to determine, recommend, and plan installation of a new system or modification of an existing system.
• Analyse user needs and software requirements to determine feasibility of design within time and cost constraints.
• Confer with data processing or project managers to obtain information on limitations or capabilities for data processing projects.
• Confer with systems analysts, engineers, programmers and others to design systems and to obtain information on project limitations and capabilities, performance requirements and interfaces.
• Consult with customers or other departments on project status, proposals, or technical issues, such as software system design or maintenance.
• Coordinate installation of software system.
• Design, develop and modify software systems, using scientific analysis and mathematical models to predict and measure outcomes and consequences of design.
• Determine system performance standards.
• Develop or direct software system testing or validation procedures, programming, or documentation.
• Modify existing software to correct errors, adapt it to new hardware, or upgrade interfaces and improve performance.

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.

 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.

 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.

App developers have many exciting career and job opportunities open to them, but there are many ways to become an App Developer and get into this ever expanding area.

Common steps include a Degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering - these are a very strong foundation. There are also specialised courses you can take that are specifically geared toward mobile app development [see Smart Futures].

Having certification in different aspects of development will make your case stronger to employers who are hiring, but the best way to prove you can build something is to actually do it! Building an app requires a well-rounded IT skill set, including UI design, familiarity with a range of programming languages, back-end computing knowledge and, some savvy business knowledge, especially if you want to go it alone as an App Developer.

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: software developer, ICT.

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, coding, game design.

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, Cybersecurity, 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: computer science, software development, software design.

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: software engineering, design, development.

Search for Postgraduate Courses

Springboard Courses: software development and design 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 - €90k

Salaries vary depending on employer, location, experience, and duties.

Data Source(s):
Brightwater / Morgan McKinley / Sigmar/ Azon

Last Updated: March, 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 (2024).

Although employment growth was above average for this occupation, employment levels declined in 2023, returning to 2021 levels (but remaining far above pre-COVID-19 levels). At 47%, this occupation has the second highest share of non-Irish citizens employed (alongside chefs, with the highest share for butchers). Only one fifth were female and over three quarters were employed in the ICT sector.

Over 1,800 new permits were issued in 2023, a decline of 2,500 on 2022 and accounting for over half of the decline in permits issued for this occupational group. Despite a large fall in the number of online job adverts (Eurostat/CEDEFOP) compared to the previous year, this occupation still accounted for the fourth largest share in 2023. There was a relatively high volume of difficult-to-fill mentions in the Recruitment Agency Survey (various developer roles) and employer data (Skills for Growth, Spotlight on Skills) highlighted issues sourcing VR developers, junior software developers, computer programmers and those with skills in cyber security, AWS and tech development stack.

There are some signs of a slowdown in demand and hirings in this occupation after the significant expansion in the ICT sector in recent years. However, demand continues, both in the ICT sector and across all sectors in the economy, with shortages likely to persist for the foreseeable future.

• Smart Futures

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