Pharma jobs have long been a cornerstone of Ireland’s economy. Pharmaceuticals make up close to 61% of total Irish exports (Irish Examiner, 2025), and account for around 10% of the world’s total pharma exports (KPMG, 2024).
As a recruitment agency that specialises in life sciences hiring, here’s a guide to help you navigate this thriving sector.
Trends in The Pharmaceutical Industry in Ireland
1. Industry Growth and Hiring Boom in Life Sciences:
The Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN) forecasts that over 21,000 additional pharma/bio-pharma jobs will be created by 2027 to support the sector (Gov.ie, 2024).
The pharma industry is also expected to grow 4.5% annually, resulting in a market volume of US$2.85bn by 2029 (Statista, 2025).
2. R&D Accelerated by AI and Machine Learning:
The integration of AI and machine learning is transforming drug discovery and clinical trials in Ireland. Companies like ICON are leveraging these to enhance patient recruitment, site selection and clinical trial design, leading to faster drug development.
3. Key Jobs in Demand:
With Ireland’s pharma industry flourishing, certain roles are experiencing a high demand, including:
Process/Bioprocess Engineers - Overseeing biopharmaceutical manufacturing.
Quality Control & Assurance Professionals - Maintaining high product standards.
Supply Chain Experts - Optimising pharmaceutical distribution networks.
R&D Scientists & Engineers - Driving innovation in MedTech and diagnostics.
Pharma Salaries in Ireland: What to Expect
Salaries in Ireland’s pharmaceutical sector vary by role and experience. In R&D and clinical roles, the compensation is approximately €55K for scientists with 3+ years of experience, reaching €120K+ at senior levels. Manufacturing and Process Engineers start at €50K - €55K, while Quality Analyst Specialists start at €40K - €60K. Senior Process Development Engineers and QA Managers earn between €70K - €90K.
Further, specialised positions in biopharmaceuticals and regulatory affairs often command higher salaries due to the complexity of the work.
Tips for A Successful Pharma Career in Ireland
1. Understanding Regulatory Frameworks:
Staying updated with pharmaceutical regulations is crucial for compliance and maintaining patient trust. Knowledge of Irish and EU guidelines can significantly enhance career prospects in the industry.
2. Upskilling & Specialised Certifications:
Consider gaining certifications such as Lean Six Sigma (for process improvement), Project Management Professional (for leadership roles), ICH-GCP Certification (for clinical research careers) and Regulatory Affairs Certification (for compliance roles). This also includes staying abreast of technological advancements in AI and machine learning.
3. Cultivating Soft Skills:
Beyond technical expertise, pharma companies value soft skills like strong communication skills, critical thinking, leadership and decision-making abilities and adaptability.
4. Contract/Temp Roles:
Short-term contract roles are excellent entry points into the industry. Often they transition into permanent positions, but also provide valuable networking opportunities.
5. Networking & Events:
Attending industry events like Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA) conferences, webinars, and joining pharma and life sciences groups on LinkedIn can help you connect with recruiters, hiring managers and industry experts.
With continued investment, technological advancements and a strong hiring outlook, now is the perfect time to explore pharma jobs in Ireland.
Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career, contact Next Generation today to drive your journey in this sector.
