Engineering barometer

The Engineering Barometer is an annual report from Engineers Ireland that tracks developments in engineering education, employment and perspectives. It has become an established resource for engineers, educators, policy-makers and recruiters.

Engineering Barometer
2023 Report
The purpose of Engineering 2023 is to measure, analyse and learn from trends in engineering employment and the perception of engineering in Ireland.

Key findings from Engineering 2023

Engineering is proving to be a robust industry in Ireland

Engineering is proving to be a robust industry in Ireland and has recovered strongly post the pandemic years and is predicting continued growth.

There are almost 8,000 new job opportunities anticipated for the sector this year. Experienced engineers are in high demand. We will need to continue attracting skilled global engineers and promoting STEM subjects in our schools to meet these opportunities now and into the future.

Engineers are seen as highly competent professionals

In 2023, 85% of members agreed that there are plenty of job opportunities in the sector. 92% of the public surveyed have said that engineers are highly competent professionals.

The number of students sitting exams in STEM subjects at higher level has decreased

Separately to our surveys, we have analysed data from the State Examinations Commission. Turning to the Leaving Certificate Examination, data obtained from the Commission up to and including 2022, shows that the number of students sitting exams in STEM subjects at higher level, decreased by 7% while the overall number of students sitting the Leaving Certificate remained consistent to 2021.

Engineers are critical to combating climate change and biodiversity loss

Engineers are critical to combating climate change and biodiversity loss according to 70% of the public.

Previous reports

Engineering Barometer
2022 Report
This report is a barometer of the profession in Ireland, which Engineers Ireland has compiled on an annual basis.
Engineers Ireland
Read the salary survey
The Engineers Ireland Salary Survey presents up-to-date information on engineers' salary levels and employment benefits in Ireland.