The Benefits That Will Define Tech Careers in 2026
Being in tech right now means you have options, and that is reflected in what candidates value most when weighing up a new role.
We have just finished our 2025 Employee Benefits Survey, and one thing is clear: salary is not the be all and end all anymore. When candidates are thinking about a move, they are looking at the whole package, and the top three benefits that matter most are:
- Remote or hybrid work options – Flexibility has positioned itself as a nonnegotiable. Most people I speak with are not asking if remote is possible, but how flexible the setup really is.
- Bonus structure – Candidates want recognition for their work, not just words. Clear and fair bonus structures are becoming real decision makers.
- Pension contributions – Financial security is back on the radar. Tech professionals want to know their future is looked after, not just their present.
Private healthcare followed closely behind at 39.1%, showing that financial security and wellbeing are big drivers for today’s talent.
Learning and development budgets and stock options both landed around 30%. That tells me that growth and long term reward still carry serious weight, especially for mid to senior level professionals who want to keep progressing without having to jump ship.
With the rapid advancement of AI across every area of technology, candidates are also becoming more focused on continuous learning. Many are asking about upskilling opportunities, internal training programs, and support for professional certifications. The pace of change in AI means that staying current is no longer optional, it’s essential.
Employers who invest in meaningful learning and development benefits will stand out as the industry continues to evolve.Interestingly, things like gym memberships, extra annual leave, or even four day work weeks didn’t rank as highly. They’re nice to have, sure, but they’re not deal breakers.
Looking Ahead: What Will Shape Tech Careers in 2026
As we move into 2026, it is clear that the benefits shaping career decisions today will only become more important. What candidates are asking for now is setting the standard for what will define the next few years in tech.
Remote and hybrid work will continue to lead the way. Flexibility has become an expectation, not an extra. People want to work where and how they are most productive, and that is not changing any time soon.
Bonus structures will stay high on the list. Candidates want their contributions recognised and rewarded in a clear and fair way.
Pension contributions are becoming more important, especially for those thinking about long term security and planning for the future.
Private healthcare is another area where expectations have grown. More candidates are viewing health cover as essential, a reflection of how wellbeing has become a real priority.
Stock options and equity are also gaining more attention. People want to feel connected to the success of the business they are helping to build, not just benefit from it day to day.
And learning and development will be one of the biggest focus areas. With AI and new technologies evolving so quickly, professionals want employers who will help them keep their skills sharp and relevant. Continuous learning has become a must for anyone who wants to stay ahead in their career.
Overall, the message is simple. The companies that listen to what people value — flexibility, recognition, security, wellbeing, and growth — will be the ones who attract and keep the best tech talent in 2026.
What Is Next: The 2026 Salary Guide
We are pulling all these insights and more into our upcoming 2026 Salary Guide.
It will dig into the benefits shaping different tech roles, salary trends across Ireland, and what to expect in the year ahead.If you would like to register in advance for our IT salary guide, you can do so here and be among the first to receive it.
