As the construction industry continues to expand across Ireland, 2026 is shaping up to be another strong year for workers seeking better opportunities, higher pay, and more consistent work. Major residential builds, commercial developments, retrofitting projects, and national infrastructure upgrades are all driving demand. For candidates with the right experience and qualifications, there will be no shortage of roles to choose from.
Whether you’re hoping to step up, change direction, or secure steady work in the new year, here are the roles set to be most in demand in 2026, and how to boost your chances of getting hired.
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General and Skilled Labourers
Labourers remain the backbone of every construction project. In 2026, those with extra skills — such as basic carpentry, concrete work, power tool experience, or time supporting trades — will be even more valuable. Labourers open to travel or long-term projects will also see increased opportunities.
How to get hired:
- Show flexibility, reliability, and a willingness to learn.
- Keep Safe Pass up to date and consider gaining tickets like Abrasive Wheels or Working at Heights.
- Make your CV task-focused — describe what you’ve done on site.
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Skilled Tradespeople
Skilled trades continue to top the list of hard-to-fill roles. Electricians, plumbers, carpenters, scaffolders, and steel fixers remain essential to most site teams, and employers are keen to secure reliable tradespeople as project volumes rise. Retrofitting and energy-efficient upgrades are also increasing demand, particularly for electricians and heating specialists.
How to get hired:
- Keep all certifications up to date, including Safe Pass and trade-specific tickets.
- Build a strong reputation for reliability — arriving on time and meeting deadlines matters as much as your CV.
- If you’re switching trades, consider short, accredited courses.
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Machine and Plant Operators
Ireland’s growing number of large-scale developments means machine drivers are in high demand. Excavator drivers, teleporter operators and crane drivers are especially sought after as sites focus on speed and efficiency.
How to get hired:
- Ensure your CSCS or relevant plant tickets are valid and clearly listed on your CV.
- Highlight any experience with different types of machinery or site conditions.
- For labourers wanting to progress, plant training is one of the fastest routes to higher pay.
- Site Engineers and Setting Out Engineers
Professional and technical roles remain consistently difficult to fill. A growing pipeline of complex projects is increasing demand for Site Engineers and Setting Out Engineers with strong technical skills, site experience, and digital competency.
How to get hired:
- Clearly outline project experience, especially on large or challenging builds.
- Demonstrate digital skills — CAD and surveying software are major advantages for 2026.
- Junior engineers can boost applications with further training in surveying, GPS, or BIM.
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Health & Safety Personnel
With safety standards tightening year on year, companies are expanding their Health & Safety teams. Safety Officers, Advisors and Managers are all in demand — especially those with practical on-site experience, not just administrative backgrounds.
How to get hired:
- IOSH or equivalent safety qualifications are essential.
- Highlight hands-on experience managing audits, toolbox talks and risk assessments.
- If transitioning from site work, begin with entry-level safety courses and support site supervisors where possible.
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Warehouse & Industrial Operatives
As construction supply chains grow more complex, warehouse, logistics and materials handling roles are becoming increasingly important. Efficient stores management helps sites avoid delays, making these roles more valuable each year.
How to get hired:
- Forklift licences, warehouse systems experience and strong organisational skills stand out.
- Labourers with warehouse experience can move between both sectors for steady, year-round work.
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Hired in 2026
No matter your role, a few key steps will help you secure better opportunities:
Update your CV for 2026
Keep it short, relevant, and focused on your practical experience and tickets. Employers want clarity.
Work with a specialist construction recruiter
Recruiters often have exclusive roles, long-term placements, and direct access to hiring managers.
Stay work-ready
Valid tickets, your own PPE, and reliable transport make you more employable immediately.
Be consistent and reliable
Strong references and a dependable reputation often matter more than long experience.
Conclusion
Construction in 2026 is full of opportunity — whether you’re a labourer looking to step up, a tradesperson seeking consistent work, or a professional aiming to grow your career. By keeping your skills up to date, staying prepared, and working with recruiters who understand the industry, you’ll be in the best position to secure a rewarding new role in the year ahead.
