Wexford, a county steeped in history and culture, has emerged as a dynamic player in Ireland’s job market. Nestled in the southeast of Ireland, Wexford is known for its stunning coastline, rich agricultural lands, and vibrant communities. But beyond its natural beauty and historical significance, Wexford is increasingly becoming a hub for diverse employment opportunities. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a recent graduate, or someone seeking part-time or remote work, understanding the job market in Wexford is essential for landing your next role.
In this blog, we will explore the top industries offering jobs in Wexford, the growing sectors in 2024, the best platforms to find jobs in Wexford, why Wexford is a fantastic place to work, and much more. Our goal is to provide you with valuable insights that will help you navigate the jobs in Wexford with confidence.
1. Top Industries Offering Jobs in Wexford
Wexford’s economy is diverse, with several key industries driving employment in the region. Understanding these industries can give you a competitive edge when searching for jobs in Wexford.
Agriculture and Agri-Food: Wexford is one of Ireland’s prime agricultural regions, and this sector plays a significant role in the local economy. From farming to food processing, agriculture offers a wide range of job opportunities. Companies like Slaney Foods and other local agri-businesses are consistently hiring for roles in production, quality control, logistics, and management.
Tourism and Hospitality: With its picturesque landscapes and historic sites, Wexford is a popular destination for tourists. The tourism and hospitality industry in Wexford is robust, offering numerous jobs, especially during the peak seasons. Hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions are always on the lookout for skilled staff in customer service, management, and event planning.
Manufacturing: Wexford has a strong manufacturing base, particularly in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and food production. Companies such as Waters Technology and Danone have established operations in Wexford, providing employment opportunities in engineering, production, research and development, and quality assurance.
Healthcare and Social Services: The healthcare sector in Wexford is another major employer, with roles ranging from nursing and medical care to administrative positions. Wexford General Hospital and various private healthcare providers offer a variety of opportunities in this sector.
Retail: Retail remains a cornerstone of employment in Wexford, with major shopping centres like Wexford Retail Park and Redmond Square hosting numerous retail giants. Jobs in this sector include sales, customer service, management, and logistics.
2. Growing Sectors for Employment in Wexford
As we look towards 2025, several sectors in Wexford are poised for growth, creating new job opportunities and driving economic development.
Renewable Energy: With the global shift towards sustainability, the renewable energy sector is gaining momentum in Wexford. Wind farms and solar energy projects are becoming more common, leading to jobs in engineering, project management, environmental science, and maintenance.
Technology and IT Services: While Wexford may not be as tech-centric as Dublin, the technology sector is gradually expanding. Smaller IT firms and startups are setting up in Wexford, offering roles in software development, IT support, cybersecurity, and digital marketing.
Creative Industries: Wexford has a rich cultural heritage, and the creative industries are flourishing here. Jobs in graphic design, content creation, arts administration, and media production are increasingly available, particularly for those with a passion for the arts.
E-commerce and Logistics: The rise of online shopping has boosted the e-commerce and logistics sectors in Wexford. Warehousing, distribution, and delivery services are expanding, creating jobs in supply chain management, operations, and customer service.
Education and Training: As the population in Wexford grows, so does the demand for education and training services. Opportunities in teaching, adult education, and vocational training are expected to rise, particularly in areas focusing on upskilling and professional development.
3. Best Job Platforms for Jobs in Wexford
Finding the right job platform is crucial to landing your next role in Wexford. Here are some of the best online platforms to explore:
Parttime.ie: For those looking for part-time or temporary work in Wexford, Parttime.ie is a fantastic resource. The platform specializes in connecting job seekers with employers offering flexible work options, making it ideal for students, parents, or anyone seeking work-life balance.
Indeed: One of the most popular job search engines globally, Indeed, has a comprehensive listing of jobs in Wexford across various industries. The platform’s user-friendly interface allows you to filter jobs by location, salary, and job type.
IrishJobs.ie: IrishJobs.ie is another leading job site in Ireland, offering a wide range of job listings in Wexford. It’s a great platform for both full-time professionals and those seeking part-time or temporary roles.
Jobs.ie: Jobs.ie is particularly useful for finding roles in the hospitality and retail sectors, which are prominent in Wexford. The platform is easy to navigate and frequently updated with new listings.
4. Why Wexford is a Great Place to Work
Wexford offers more than just job opportunities; it’s a place where work and life can be harmoniously balanced. Here’s why Wexford is an excellent place to work:
Quality of Life: Wexford is known for its high quality of life. With beautiful beaches, scenic countryside, and a strong sense of community, Wexford provides a peaceful environment that’s perfect for raising a family or enjoying a slower pace of life.
Affordable Living: Compared to Dublin or Cork, Wexford offers more affordable housing and living costs. This means that your salary can go further, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle without the financial pressures of larger cities.
Strong Community Spirit: Wexford’s communities are close-knit, with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. This sense of community extends to the workplace, where teamwork and collaboration are highly valued.
Proximity to Major Cities: While Wexford offers a quieter lifestyle, it’s still well-connected to major cities like Dublin and Waterford. This makes it possible to enjoy the best of both worlds – a peaceful living environment with easy access to urban amenities.
Cultural and Recreational Activities: Wexford is rich in cultural heritage, with numerous festivals, events, and activities throughout the year. From the Wexford Opera Festival to outdoor pursuits like hiking and sailing, there’s always something to do outside of work.
5. Part-Time and Remote Job Opportunities in Wexford
The job market in Wexford is increasingly accommodating part-time and remote work options, catering to those who need flexibility.
Part-Time Jobs: Part-time work is abundant in Wexford, particularly in the retail, hospitality, and healthcare sectors. Whether you’re looking for a job to complement your studies, manage family commitments, or simply prefer shorter working hours, there are plenty of opportunities. Retail positions, hospitality roles, and administrative jobs are commonly available on platforms like Parttime.ie.
Remote Work: The rise of remote work has opened up new possibilities for job seekers in Wexford. Many companies, particularly in tech and digital services, are offering remote roles that allow you to work from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re a software developer, graphic designer, or customer support specialist, remote jobs are becoming more accessible.
Freelancing: Wexford’s creative and digital industries also offer opportunities for freelancers. Whether you’re a writer, designer, or consultant, freelancing allows you to work on a project basis with flexible hours. Websites like Upwork and Fiverr are great platforms to find freelance gigs.
6. Average Salaries for Jobs in Wexford
Understanding the average salaries in Wexford can help you negotiate better and set realistic expectations.
Agriculture: In the agriculture sector, salaries can vary widely depending on the role. Farm workers typically earn around €25,000 to €30,000 annually, while more specialized roles in management or quality control can command salaries of €35,000 to €45,000.
Tourism and Hospitality: Salaries in the tourism and hospitality industry range from €20,000 to €30,000 for entry-level positions like waitstaff or housekeeping. Management roles in this sector can offer salaries between €35,000 and €50,000.
Manufacturing: The manufacturing sector tends to offer competitive salaries. Production workers earn between €30,000 and €40,000, while roles in engineering or management can offer salaries upwards of €50,000.
Healthcare: In healthcare, nurses typically earn between €35,000 and €50,000, depending on experience. Administrative roles in healthcare can offer salaries of €30,000 to €40,000.
Retail: Retail positions usually offer salaries in the range of €20,000 to €30,000 for sales assistants, with store managers earning between €35,000 and €45,000.
7. Job Market Trends in Wexford: What You Need to Know
The job market in Wexford has evolved significantly over recent years, driven by both local economic developments and broader national trends. Here’s what you need to know about the current landscape:
Growth in Remote Work Opportunities: With the rise of remote work, more companies are offering flexible job opportunities that allow employees to work from home or other locations outside traditional office settings. This trend is particularly appealing for job seekers in Wexford, offering a broader range of roles that may not have been accessible locally before.
Focus on Sustainability and Green Jobs: Wexford’s proximity to natural resources and its commitment to sustainability have spurred growth in green industries. Jobs in renewable energy, environmental conservation, and sustainable agriculture are becoming more prominent, reflecting a broader shift towards eco-friendly practices.
Expansion in the Tech Sector: While traditionally not known as a tech hub, Wexford is seeing increased investment in technology and innovation. This is creating more opportunities in IT, software development, and digital marketing, catering to both local businesses and international companies setting up operations in the region.
Rise in Healthcare and Social Services: As Ireland’s population ages and healthcare needs increase, Wexford has seen a surge in jobs within the healthcare and social services sectors. From nursing and medical support to roles in community care, this sector offers a variety of career paths.
8. High-Demand Jobs in Wexford: What Employers are Looking For
Understanding the roles that are in high demand can give you an edge in the job market. Here are some of the top jobs that employers in Wexford are actively recruiting for:
Healthcare Professionals: With a growing need for healthcare services, there’s a high demand for nurses, healthcare assistants, physiotherapists, and medical technicians. Whether in hospitals, clinics, or community settings, these roles are critical in meeting the needs of Wexford’s population.
IT and Tech Specialists: As Wexford’s tech sector expands, there’s an increasing demand for IT professionals, including software developers, cybersecurity experts, and IT support staff. Companies are looking for individuals with strong technical skills and the ability to innovate.
Construction and Trades: Wexford continues to experience growth in construction, leading to a demand for skilled tradespeople such as electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and construction managers. These roles are essential as new housing developments and infrastructure projects continue to emerge.
Educators: Education remains a priority in Wexford, with schools and training centers seeking qualified teachers and educators. There’s a particular need for those specializing in STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), as well as early childhood education.
9. Average Salaries for Jobs in Wexford
When considering a job in Wexford, it’s important to have a realistic understanding of what you can expect to earn. Here’s a snapshot of average salaries across various industries:
Healthcare: Nurses in Wexford can expect to earn between €35,000 and €55,000 per year, depending on experience and specialization. Healthcare assistants typically earn between €25,000 and €35,000 annually.
IT and Tech: Salaries in the tech sector are competitive, with software developers earning between €40,000 and €65,000 per year. IT support roles generally offer salaries ranging from €30,000 to €45,000.
Construction and Trades: Skilled tradespeople in Wexford can earn between €35,000 and €50,000 annually, with construction managers earning upwards of €60,000 depending on the scale of the projects they manage.
Education: Teachers in Wexford typically earn between €35,000 and €50,000 per year, with opportunities for advancement as they gain experience and additional qualifications.
Hospitality and Tourism: Salaries in the hospitality sector can vary widely, with entry-level positions such as waitstaff earning around €20,000 to €25,000 per year, while experienced hotel managers can earn between €40,000 and €60,000.
