Working in Engineering

Engineering is a hands-on, innovative, and collaborative profession that is hugely rewarding. Engineers are innovators who invent, design and maintain a variety of machines, structures and data systems. The Irish talent market offers a wide array of engineering roles, from working with the many pharmaceutical brands that operate in the region to working on civil engineering projects.

Working in Engineering requires critical thinking, creative and interpersonal skills, and a deep understanding of projects and company objectives.

Being an engineer is a challenging job, which is incredibly rewarding, especially when projects come to fruition. With the right training and an inquisitive mind, a career in engineering can be extremely fulfilling.

What are the best pathways to a career in Engineering?

There are several pathways to a career in the engineering sector. But one of the most popular is to obtain a trade or degree qualification at Level 7 NFQ or NFQ Level 8 equivalent. And then follow up with a relevant apprenticeship. This provides a solid foundation of knowledge and experience that can be used to pursue a wide range of job opportunities in engineering.

Additional job options are available for trade-qualified applicants with electrical or mechanical certifications and relevant work experience. The same entry and qualification criteria apply to overseas candidates.

What are the top soft skills needed for a career in Engineering?

Running parallel to academic qualifications, are a high level of core soft skills and competencies. Leadership and communication skills are highly desirable in the engineering sector. These skills allow you to work effectively with teams of other engineers and technicians, and to communicate complex technical information to non-technical stakeholders.

In addition to leadership and communication skills, you'll also need to have excellent problem-solving skills. The ability to think critically and creatively is also highly regarded. Being able to work independently and manage your time effectively is also important, as is being able to work well under pressure.

What benefits can engineering candidates expect to be offered?

Most leading employers in the engineering sector offer benchmarked/market-leading salaries. And a wide range of benefits packages, including annual bonuses, defined contribution pensions, medical insurance, share options, education support, and life assurance.

Benefits offered by Small and Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs) may be less favourable than those offered by larger organisations. However, this can vary depending on the company. It is important to do your research and find out what different employers offer.

102 survey respondents who work in engineering

What flexible working arrangements can an engineering candidate expect?

Those within trade-qualified maintenance technician roles do not have as many flexible working options due to their core day-to-day responsibilities. They are usually required to be on-site to support the preventative and reactive maintenance programs.

For other roles, such as engineers, there can be work from home (WFH) opportunities. These will usually be put in place once a probation period has been completed and a level of agreed skills and competence has been achieved.

What is the difference between SMB and enterprise benefit offerings in engineering?

Within the engineering sector, salary and benefits offerings are determined by the value a company puts on skilled staff rather than the company size. Smaller employers can often match or beat larger firms’ remuneration packages for the right people.

How do years of experience affect engineering salaries?

Trade-qualified roles tend to sit within a standard salary range, but degree-qualified roles (e.g. engineers) can expect their salary and their value to the organisation to increase as they continue to upskill in their careers.

Ready to begin your engineering career?

The engineering sector is a rapidly growing, skills-based industry. It offers a wide range of career opportunities for those with the right qualifications and experience. By obtaining the right qualifications and developing the right soft skills, you can position yourself for a successful career in engineering.

Visit our live jobs webpage now to discover engineering positions in Ireland and beyond. Get career advice delivered directly to your inbox by subscribing to our newsletter today.

Working in Engineering