Jobs for software developers, engineers, privacy analysts and tax managers are among the hardest to fill roles in Ireland, according to new data from hiring platform Indeed.
The research examined job postings from 1 January 2024 to 1 December 2024 to determine which positions were most likely to remain open for over 60 days - an indicator of them being "hard to fill".
Job postings for privacy analysts rank in the top position with 54% of advertised roles remaining open for over 60 days.
Postings for "artists" rank in second place.
According to Indeed, this could be related to the growing interest and investment in industries such as film, animation and games development, but it could also partly be attributed to the trend towards using the title "artist" beyond strictly creative fields.
Engineering roles feature prominently, with jobs for process engineers, senior engineers and senior electrical engineers all appearing hard to fill.
In the construction sector, building engineers, welders and electrical technicians all feature on the list of hard to fill jobs.
"This new data highlights the key skill gaps in the current workforce, revealing the areas where supply is not meeting demand," said Sarah Carroll, Indeed Career Expert.
"The findings may be particularly useful for those seeking a new year career change, as we know traditionally January is a busy time for career switchers," she said.
"Amid increased privacy requirements and regulation for businesses, roles for privacy analysts are the number one roles that are hardest to fill, likely due to the highly specialised nature of the work," Ms Carroll said.
"The list also reflects the pressing and persistent need for increased housing and infrastructure, as qualified engineers and construction workers remain in high demand year on year," she added.