Building Your Data Centre Career in 2026: The Skills and Roles in Demand
Why Data Centres in Ireland Will Continue to Grow in 2026 — And How You Can Build a Career in This Booming Industry
Ireland, with Dublin at its heart, remains one of Europe’s leading data-centre hubs and although no new projects are currently being approved, the data-centre developments and associated infrastructure projects that got the green light before the moratorium continue to generate significant employment opportunities across operations, maintenance, and support functions.
As demand for cloud services and digital infrastructure soars, so does the need for skilled professionals across electrical, mechanical, IT, networking, and operations roles. As I spend every day working closely with data-centre teams and job-seekers, I see firsthand how the industry is shifting and where new roles are opening up. I use that insight to guide candidates toward opportunities that truly suit their experience and long-term goals.
In today’s blog I’ll cover:
- Why data centres in Ireland are still on the rise
- Hot jobs in data centres for 2026
- Skills that make you a data centre superstar
- Courses & certifications to boost your career
- How I can help you land your dream job
- FAQs — your burning questions answered
1. Why Data Centres in Ireland are still on the rise
Data centres are basically the big machines that keep everything online working from Netflix and gaming to banking apps and video calls. Even though Ireland isn’t approving many brand-new centres right now, the ones already built are getting busier every year. More people are using the cloud, more companies rely on online tools, and AI is growing fast. All of this means data centres need more staff to keep everything running smoothly. That’s why Ireland, especially Dublin, still has plenty of jobs in this area.
- Cloud services are booming. More companies are moving their data and apps to the cloud, needing bigger, more reliable data centres.
- Non-stop uptime is critical. Businesses demand 24/7 reliability — no downtime allowed — pushing data centres to get smarter and stronger.
- New tech needs new power. AI, IoT, and big data analytics rely on massive computing power, meaning data centres must keep growing.
This isn’t just about buildings; it’s about an entire ecosystem of tech jobs that’s expanding fast.
2. Hot Jobs in Data Centres for 2026
- When it comes to hiring in the data-centre sector, some roles are hotter than others. Right now, Network & Cabling Engineers top the list, as companies ramp up fibre optic installations and need skilled professionals to keep data flowing at lightning speed. Salaries here are competitive, reflecting the technical expertise required.
- Next in demand are Site Reliability Engineers (SREs) and Cloud Operations specialists, who automate and monitor systems to ensure data centres run without a hitch. Their role is becoming increasingly vital, with salaries reflecting the high level of responsibility they carry.
- Following closely are Project & Commissioning Engineers, who oversee new builds and upgrades. As expansions continue, their leadership ensures smooth go-lives, and their compensation packages are growing accordingly.
- Electrical Engineers remain crucial for powering facilities reliably, handling UPS systems, backup generators, and power distribution. While demand is steady, salaries are attractive given the technical skills involved.
- Finally, Mechanical and HVAC Engineers—who manage cooling systems to prevent server overheating—continue to be important, though demand is slightly lower compared to the others.
For a detailed look at expected salaries across these roles and more, check out our latest Salary Guide.
3. Skills That Make You a Data Centre Superstar
What does it take to stand out? Here’s the mix:
- Hard skills: Know your way around electrical systems, mechanical setups, or IT networking. Experience with power, cooling, or cabling is a huge plus.
- Soft skills: Stay cool under pressure, communicate clearly, and collaborate well with teams — data centres never sleep, and neither do challenges.
- Certifications: Having the right badges on your CV, like CDCP, Uptime Institute training, or CompTIA certifications, can fast-track your career.
4. Courses & Certifications to Boost Your Career
If you want to stand out, upskilling is a game-changer. The candidates who make it furthest in interview processes usually have certifications like:
Data Centre-Specific Certifications
- CDCP (Certified Data Centre Professional)
- Uptime Institute Training
CompTIA Certifications
- CompTIA A+ (great for entry-level technicians)
- CompTIA Network+ (ideal for networking roles)
- CompTIA Server+ (for hardware and server management)
Technical and Safety Training
- Electrical safety and Safe Pass (Ireland-specific)
- HVAC and cooling systems training
- Building Management Systems (BMS)
- Health & Safety certifications
Don’t forget local requirements like Safe Pass and electrical safety courses if you’re working onsite in Ireland.
5. How I help my candidates secure their dream job
The advice I give my candidates is always tailored to their unique skills and career goals. I want to help you find the right role that fits you perfectly. From reviewing your CV to prepping you for interviews, I’m here to support you at every step of the process. Because I work closely with the data-centre industry in Ireland, I can share up-to-date insights on hiring trends and opportunities that others might miss.
I also help candidates build their professional networks by connecting them with industry events and community groups because sometimes who you know makes all the difference. No matter where you are in Ireland, GemPool is your career partner in this booming sector, and I’m ready to help you take your next step.
6. FAQs — Your Burning Questions Answered
- Do I need a university degree to work in data centres?
No. Practical skills and certifications are often more important. - Q: What locations in Ireland have the most jobs?
Dublin leads, but growing opportunities exist across other counties. - Q: How do I start if I’m new to the industry?
Begin with entry-level certifications like CDCP or CompTIA A+, and consider technician roles. - Q: I come from an electrical/mechanical background—can I join?
Yes. Many Irish data centres actively hire electricians, mechanical techs, and maintenance staff. In fact this will be one of the most sought after skills in the industry for 2026. - Q: Are there remote options?
Most roles are on-site due to the physical nature of the work. - Q: What roles pay best in Ireland?
Electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, and SRE/operations roles typically offer higher pay.
Ready to take the next step?
Whether it’s your first time stepping into a data centre or you’ve done dozens of installs, I’ll help you present your experience the right way for each role.
If you’re looking for roles in Ireland, please don’t hesitate to reach out — I’d be happy to support you in finding the right fit. You can also check out our careers page to explore current openings and apply directly.
