The Irish construction industry is buoyant at present, with increasing demand for Housing/Apartments, Data Centres, Pharmaceutical projects, Infrastructure works etc. While a workforce shortage has made it challenging to secure skilled professionals for these areas, this also means exciting opportunities for top talent are available.

At E-Frontiers, we deal with the top Tier 1 and Tier 2 Contractors and Residential Developers in Ireland. If you’re currently based in Ireland and exploring new career options or looking to return home in the near future, now is the perfect time to take the next step in your career.

We have summarised some information below about the top construction roles that are in demand at present and how you can contribute to some of the most dynamic and high-profile projects in the industry.

Quantity Surveyors (QS’s)

Quantity Surveyors are indispensable for cost management and financial planning in construction projects. They ensure projects stay on budget without compromising quality.

 -Salaries/Packages:

Junior/Project level – €45,000 to €70,000 plus transport & package

Senior QS level – €70,000 to €90,000 plus transport & package

 – Qualifications:

A degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Economics, or a related discipline. Membership in professional bodies like the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI) is highly desirable though not essential.

As the candidate what’s in it for you:

QS professionals will have the opportunity to influence critical project decisions, develop in-depth financial expertise, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. Senior roles offer leadership and strategic planning experience in complex projects.

As the company what can you do:

Emphasise involvement in high-profile projects, flexible working options, and a strong focus on employee well-being to attract top QS talent, CPD opportunities are also very beneficial.

Site/Senior Engineers

Site and Senior Engineers play a critical role in the successful delivery of projects. They are responsible for setting out and ensuring design specifications are met, and maintaining quality standards.

 -Salaries/Packages:

Site/Setting Out Engineers – €50,000 to €65,000 plus transport & package

Senior Engineers – €70,000 to €85,000 plus transport & package

 -Qualifications:

A degree in Construction Management, Civil or Structural Engineering is typically required, alongside experience with setting-out equipment like total stations and GPS

As the candidate what’s in it for you:

This role offers a chance to bring your existing skillset and knowledge to assist high-profile projects and developments to completion, develop expertise in advanced engineering tools, and progress into leadership positions such as Site/Project Management. Engineers will gain exposure to dynamic environments that challenge their problem-solving and technical skills.

As the company what can you do:

Highlight opportunities for professional development, exposure to cutting-edge technologies, and a supportive team environment. Providing competitive benefits packages, CPD opportunities where possible and clear career progression pathways are vital.

Site Manager/Site Supervisor

These roles involve overseeing on-site operations, managing teams, and ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.

 -Salaries/Packages:

Site Supervisor/Finishing Foreperson – €60,000 to €70,000 plus transport & package

Site Agent/Manager – €70,000 to €85,000 plus transport & package

 -Qualifications:

A background in Construction Management, Engineering, or Trade Qualifications, coupled with strong leadership skills and relevant on-site experience.

As the candidate what’s in it for you:

Site Managers and Supervisors gain leadership experience, exposure to complex construction projects, and the satisfaction of seeing their work take tangible form. These roles are stepping stones to senior management positions in the construction industry.

As the company what can you do:

Highlight the opportunity to lead high-impact projects, provide ongoing leadership training, and offer performance-based bonuses.

Health and Safety Advisors

Health and Safety Advisors are key to ensuring compliance with safety regulations and creating a safe working environment.

 -Salaries/Packages:

Junior/Inter level – €40,000 to €60,000 plus transport & package

Senior/Manager level – €65,000 to €85,000 plus transport & package

 -Qualifications:

Diploma Level 6 in Occupational Health and Safety, NEBOSH, IOSH, or other recognised safety certifications, combined with experience in construction safety management.

As the candidate what’s in it for you:

Advisors will contribute directly to creating safer workplaces while building your expertise in risk management and compliance. The role offers opportunities for recognition through successful safety initiatives and pathways to senior safety leadership roles.

As the company what can you do:

Showcase your commitment to safety through robust training programs, and recognition schemes for safety performance, along with opportunities for certifications or further education.

Site Manager/Site Supervisor

These roles involve overseeing on-site operations, managing teams, and ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.

 -Salaries/Packages:

Site Supervisor/Finishing Foreperson – €60,000 to €70,000 plus transport & package

Site Agent/Manager – €70,000 to €85,000 plus transport & package

 -Qualifications:

A background in Construction Management, Engineering, or Trade Qualifications, coupled with strong leadership skills and relevant on-site experience.

As the candidate what’s in it for you:

Site Managers and Supervisors gain leadership experience, exposure to complex construction projects, and the satisfaction of seeing their work take tangible form. These roles are stepping stones to senior management positions in the construction industry.

As the company what can you do:

Highlight the opportunity to lead high-impact projects, provide ongoing leadership training, and offer performance-based bonuses.

Building Services Manager

Building Services Managers ensure that electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems are integrated seamlessly into construction projects. They are pivotal for large-scale developments.

 -Salaries/Packages:

Building Services/M&E Coordinator – €60,000 to €75,000 plus transport & package

Building Services/M&E Manager – €75,000 to €90,000 plus transport & package

 -Qualifications:

A degree in Building Services, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, and/or a trade background as a plumbing, electrician, or fitter, with extensive experience managing MEP services.

As the candidate what’s in it for you:

This role offers candidates the chance to get exposure to & to be involved in innovative high-profile Technology, Data Centre & Pharmaceutical projects, to specialise in green building practices, and work with cutting-edge technology. Building Services Coordinators & Managers are critical in shaping sustainable infrastructure and advancing their professional expertise.

As the company what can you do:

Stress the importance of their role in innovation and sustainability, offer opportunities to work on cutting-edge green building projects, and provide favourable benefits packages.

Conclusion

To thrive in Ireland’s competitive construction sector, it’s important to consider what makes a role truly stand out. Top candidates are looking for more than just a pay cheque – they want opportunities for career growth, professional development, work-life balance, and a positive workplace culture. Companies that prioritise employee satisfaction, offer unique benefits and create an environment where people feel valued will attract the best talent.

If you’re exploring new opportunities, look for employers who offer not only competitive salaries but also have a good work-life balance, good company culture, offer the chance to grow, showcase your skills, and be part of successful projects. Whether you’re a Site Engineer or a Building Services Manager, finding a company that aligns with your career goals and values is key to taking the next step in your professional journey.

Are you looking for your next role or top talent in the construction sector?

1. Follow us on LinkedIn 

2. Connect on LinkedIn with our Construction Recruitment Specialist – Mark Kelly

3. For visibility of all our roles visit the jobs section of our website

4. Click here to find out more about our areas of expertise in the construction industry