The demand for construction workers in Ireland remains strong, fueled by large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly in healthcare and pharmaceuticals. As a global hub for life sciences, Ireland is seeing significant investment in hospitals, biotech facilities, and pharmaceutical manufacturing plants - developments that are not only transforming the country's skyline but also generating thousands of job opportunities.
But where exactly are these opportunities? Let’s explore some of the key healthcare and pharmaceutical projects currently underway across Ireland and the roles they’re creating at both the construction and completion stages.
Dublin: National Children's Hospital
The long-awaited National Children's Hospital at St. James’s Hospital is leading the way in healthcare infrastructure in Dublin. The new facility will consolidate services from multiple children’s hospitals, featuring 380 inpatient rooms and 22 operating theatres. The project is currently generating over 1,000 construction jobs, with additional demand expected for healthcare professionals post-completion.
Cork: GE Healthcare Expansion
Cork is seeing significant investment in the life sciences sector, particularly with GE Healthcare’s €132 million expansion in Carrigtwohill. This manufacturing facility, set to enhance production of media fill and finish processes, began construction in early 2025. The project has already created 250 construction jobs and will contribute to long-term employment in manufacturing and supply chain management.
Limerick: Eli Lilly’s Biologics Facility Expansion
Limerick is fast becoming a biopharmaceutical hub, with Eli Lilly investing $1 billion to expand its biologic active ingredients facility. This large-scale project is creating over 300 construction jobs, with the site expected to be fully operational by 2026. The expansion will also lead to 450 permanent roles in manufacturing, engineering, and quality assurance.
Tralee, County Kerry: Astellas’ New Production Facility
Kerry is emerging as a key location for pharmaceutical manufacturing, with Astellas Pharma investing €330 million in a new production facility in Tralee. This project will generate around 600 construction jobs during the build phase, followed by over 100 permanent roles in biotechnology, quality control, and process engineering.
Limerick: New Bon Secours Hospital
Bon Secours Health System began constructing their new hospital at Towlerton, Ballysimon, in 2021, investing €190 million into the project. The hospital is on track to open in Autumn 2025, creating approximately 300 jobs in healthcare.
A Promising Outlook
Healthcare and pharmaceutical projects are driving serious demand for workers across Ireland. From Dublin’s National Children’s Hospital to Eli Lilly’s expansion in Limerick, these large-scale developments are not just shaping the physical landscape but also creating long-term opportunities in manufacturing, engineering, and healthcare.
For construction professionals, this is great news; there’s no shortage of work, and skilled trades are in high demand. And for healthcare professionals looking beyond the build phase, these projects will continue to generate job opportunities long after the last brick is laid.
Of course, challenges remain. With the risk of tariffs being introduced on pharmaceutical exports to the US by the Trump administration, there’s understandable concern about the impact on Ireland’s thriving life sciences sector. However, the long-term outlook remains strong and Ireland’s reputation as a global leader in pharma and biotech, combined with continued investment from multinational firms, ensures that demand for talent will remain high.
Whether you're a tradesperson, engineer, or someone considering a career move into these booming sectors, now’s a great time to explore your options. Check out our job openings on our website:
Construction & Engineering Careers:https://www.elitetalenthub.ie/jobs/construction-and-engineering
Healthcare Careers: https://www.elitetalenthub.ie/jobs/healthcare-1