Updated / 21st September, 2025

Ireland’s artificial intelligence (AI) sector is emerging as one of the fastest-growing parts of the economy, with salaries now on par with leading European markets. But despite competitive pay, a shortage of skilled talent continues to hold back the sector’s full potential.

According to the Economic Research Institute, the average salary for an AI engineer in Ireland is about €85,000, with typical ranges from €58,000 to €104,000 depending on experience. Senior roles can exceed €100,000, while entry-level positions often begin in the high €30,000s to mid-€40,000s (UCD Professional Academy).

The demand is being driven across multiple Irish industries. Dublin’s fintech sector is competing fiercely for data scientists and machine learning specialists; Galway’s medtech cluster is turning to AI to support diagnostics and device innovation; and Cork’s pharmaceutical and biopharma industries are investing heavily in AI-driven process optimisation.

Recruiters report demand for candidates with experience in machine learning frameworks, data governance, and applied cloud technologies. Competition is especially intense in regulated sectors such as healthcare and financial services, where AI adoption must meet strict compliance standards.

“Universities and employers need to work more closely together to make sure graduates are leaving with the applied skills industry is crying out for.  If Ireland is to keep pace with demand, the education system and the private sector must be in lockstep.” said Siobhán Kinsella, President of ERF Ireland.

Research from Bridging Ireland’s Tech Skills Gap projects that Ireland will need to fill up to 40,000 new technology roles by 2030, many linked to AI and automation. Employers are also being urged to invest in upskilling their existing workforce to secure long-term capacity.

Ireland’s competitive pay, strong technology ecosystem and international reputation for innovation mean the country is well placed to benefit from AI’s growth. But unless the skills pipeline strengthens, Ireland risks losing ground to its European rivals in the race for talent.

For Information:   

SHARON BANNERTON ¦ Managing Director, BANNERTON ¦ Mobile: + 353 87 673 1100 ¦ Email: Sharon@BANNERTON.ie 

The Employment & Recruitment Federation is a voluntary organisation set up to establish and maintain standards and codes of practice for the recruitment industry. 

Representing over 200 member companies throughout Ireland, the ERF develops and promotes education and training, and provides information and advice on the sector, as well as members services such as vetting, and lobbying on policy and industry issues impacting the labour market.