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As Ireland’s employment landscape continues to evolve in 2025, Cork stands out as a leading regional hub for job creation and economic resilience. According to the FRS Recruitment Employment Insights Report 2025, Cork remains highly active on both the jobseeker and employer fronts, with strong indicators of ongoing recruitment and salary movement.

Key insights from the report:

• 84% of Cork-based employees believe they could find a new job within three months.
• Six in ten employers are actively hiring, with eight out of ten planning to recruit in the next quarter.
• 55% of workers in Cork expect to receive a salary increase in 2025.
• 81% would consider switching jobs for a salary increase of 20% or less.
• 57% of employees have been asked to increase their in-office days, reflecting evolving hybrid work models.
• 59% of Cork workers expect artificial intelligence to impact their day-to-day work this year.

High-Demand Sectors in Cork

Based on the employment trends and hiring patterns observed in the 2025 report, several industries are driving growth and creating job opportunities in Cork.

Pharmaceutical and Medical Devices

Cork continues to be a stronghold for life sciences, with high demand for roles in:

• Quality assurance
• Regulatory affairs
• Manufacturing and production
• Supply chain and logistics

Visit our Pharmaceutical jobs in Cork page for current openings.

Technology and IT

The technology sector in Cork is experiencing steady demand, particularly in areas such as:

• Software development
• IT support
• Cybersecurity
• AI implementation and data analysis

Explore the latest Tech jobs in Cork.

Healthcare and Nursing

Healthcare hiring remains robust, with hospitals, clinics, and care homes actively seeking professionals including:

• Registered nurses
• Healthcare assistants
• Medical administrators

View available Healthcare jobs in Cork

Construction and Engineering

Ongoing infrastructure, housing, and commercial projects in Cork are fueling hiring across:

• Civil and structural engineering
• Project management
• Skilled trades and technical roles

Check out current Construction jobs in Cork and our Engineering jobs in Cork.

Employer Perspective: Hiring Challenges and Priorities

Despite strong intent to hire, employers in Cork face a competitive and talent-scarce market:

• Eight out of ten employers report difficulty securing qualified candidates.
• Rising salary expectations and skills shortages are top concerns.
• Employees are more selective and value-driven in their job choices.
• Hybrid work expectations continue to influence candidate decision-making.

For employers, partnering with a recruitment agency like FRS Recruitment is critical to navigating these challenges effectively and securing the right talent quickly.

If you're an employer, learn how to Hire talent in Cork with FRS Recruitment.

Key Takeaways for 2025

• Cork’s job market is active and optimistic, with a strong pipeline of talent and opportunities.
• High-demand sectors include pharma, tech, healthcare, and construction.
• Employees are increasingly salary-driven and confident about job mobility.
• Employers must prioritise competitive salaries, transparent job postings, and flexible work models.

Why FRS Recruitment Cork?

With a dedicated team based locally and insights driven by national data, FRS Recruitment offers tailored support to jobseekers and employers alike. Our expertise across sectors and regions ensures you're equipped to make informed decisions in a fast-changing job market.

Find Your Next Role or Candidate in Cork

Whether you're looking to take the next step in your career or searching for top talent to grow your business, FRS Recruitment is your trusted partner in Cork.