Construction Salary Survey 2026

As we look toward 2026, the Irish construction landscape is shifting from volatility to stabilization, driven by massive investments in infrastructure, renewable energy, and data centres. For employers and professionals alike, having the right data is no longer a luxury—it’s a competitive necessity. At Design Build Search, part of the Vertical Markets Group, we have leveraged our extensive network to produce our most comprehensive 2026 Construction Salary Survey yet. This report offers critical insights into the evolving market, helping you navigate complex challenges like the chronic talent shortage , the rising cost of labour , and the strategic recruitment of international talent.

Whether you are a Quantity Surveyor seeking a benchmark, a Project Manager looking for your next challenge, or an employer trying to retain top Engineering talent, this report reveals the “new normal” for compensation and benefits in Ireland. We are seeing unprecedented changes, such as salaries in the West of Ireland (Galway and Mayo) surging by up to 15% to rival Dublin rates , and a significant “boomerang” trend of experienced 30+ professionals returning home to Ireland. Download the full report to access exclusive salary tables for Civil, Structural, M&E, and Construction Management roles, and ensure you aren’t left behind in 2026.

Key Insights From The Report:

• Regional Salary Surge: The gap is closing. We’ve recorded salary increases of up to 12-15% in the West of Ireland, particularly in Galway and Mayo, across both contractor and consultancy roles.
• The Hybrid Battleground: While 92% of professionals prefer hybrid or remote models, 56% of companies globally are pushing for a return to the office. We break down what the top employers are actually offering to bridge this gap.
• Skills in High Demand: The industry is hungry for specific expertise. Project Delivery (up 52%) and Analytical Skills (up 46%) are the fastest-growing skill requirements over the last 12 months.
• Sector Pivots: Professionals are increasingly breaking into high-growth sectors like Renewable Energy, Data Centres, and Pharma, often accepting short-term lateral moves for long-term career gains.
• The “Boomerang” Workforce: There is a notable spike in construction professionals aged 32+ returning to Ireland to start families or buy homes, balancing out the exodus of younger graduates to Australia and Canada.