Professional job openings fell by 3% in the third quarter of 2025 compared with both the previous quarter and the same period last year, according to the latest Morgan McKinley Irish Employment Monitor.
The research also shows that the number of jobseekers declined by 10% quarter-on-quarter reflecting what the report described as a typical summer slowdown and a period of more selective hiring.
Morgan McKinley Ireland said despite this moderation, the data points to a market that has stabilised rather than stalled.
"Confidence is returning as employers resume delayed projects, progress critical hires in strategic and transformation-focused roles and refocus on longer-term planning after a period of cost pressures and economic uncertainty," the report found.
According to the Employment Monitor, recruitment in the technology sector remained consistent as organisations continued to modernise systems, strengthen cybersecurity frameworks and expand their data and cloud capabilities.
"Whether through data analytics, automation or emerging AI applications, organisations are preparing for the next phase of change, but human expertise, adaptability and collaboration remain the foundation of success," said Trayc Keevans, Global Foreign Direct Investment Director at Morgan McKinley.
"While Dublin continues to lead overall hiring activity, there was a noticeable uptick in demand across the regions for software developers, data engineers, project managers, product specialists and UI and UX designers," she said.
"Employers reported greater visibility on project timelines and budgets heading into the fourth quarter4, suggesting continued confidence in Ireland's technology labour market," she added.
"AI and automation appeared more often in job specifications, particularly for data-driven roles, but they remain part of broader modernisation efforts rather than a standalone hiring trend," Ms Keevans said.
The report found that the construction sector was one of the strongest performers in the third quarter, supported by public investment in infrastructure and sustained housing demand.
Hiring was particularly strong for quantity surveyors, engineers, project managers, and design staff.
"Much of the new work is linked to schools, hospitals, roads, and rail projects currently in the design phase," the report found.
