Technologist - 3 year FTC

IDA Ireland; Dublin; Hybrid; EUR 83,000 - 102,000; Full time

Job summary

ID A Ireland is seeking a Technology Expert to lead R&D, innovation, and industry collaborations in Ireland. The role focuses on driving strategic RD&I investments, engaging senior stakeholders, and shaping Ireland’s technology landscape through global market insights.

The successful candidate will have a Master’s (and ideally Level 8) in a relevant science field, strong communication skills, and a proven track record in networking and influencing at senior levels.

Qualifications

• Master's qualification in a relevant technology domain is essential.
• Level 8 degree in a science discipline recognised on the National Qualification Framework.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required.
• Full, valid driving licence is essential.
• Proven influencing and networking experience with strong client relationships.

Responsibilities

• Lead RD&I projects across IDA Ireland to guide client discussions and investment proposals.
• Advise clients on expanding RD&I goals and targets to reinforce Ireland as a hub for tech innovation.
• Support the Client Transformation Team in building a skilled workforce for emerging technologies.
• Contribute to Ireland's technology strategy across Cloud, Cybersecurity, SaaS, and Semiconductors.
• Represent IDA Ireland in international marketing and capacity-building initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Relationship building

Communications

Networking

Strategic thinking

Project management

Business knowledge

Sales & marketing

Creativity & innovation

Education

Master's degree in a relevant technology

Level 8 degree in a related science discipline

Job description

Job Purpose:

IDA Ireland is seeking a highly skilled Technology Expert (Technologist) with deep expertise in research and development (R&D), innovation, and emerging technologies. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of international technology trends and Irish market trends, as well as the ability to drive complex R&D investment initiatives and foster high-level industry relationships.

This role will suit someone with a broad technology background, with a primary and at least Master’s qualification in a relevant technology domain(s). The ideal candidate will be a strong communicator, with an ability to build relationships with international FDI entities at a senior technology level, and to translate complex topics into easily understood concepts. You should also be comfortable working as part of a diverse team, with an ability to collaborate, or to work on your own on dedicated projects.

Key Tasks:

• Leadership to stay ahead of global and local advancements in software, communications, semiconductors, microelectronics, Industry 4.0, artificial intelligence, computer architecture, and quantum computing, applying this knowledge to support strategic investments.
• Demonstrated understanding of R&D business models, market drivers, and investment considerations to influence technology and investment decisions.
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with senior stakeholders in client companies, policymakers, and research institutions.
• Wider R&D ecosystem knowledge, including research policies, and funding landscape that influences R&D and innovation investments.
• Industrial experience and application of R&D, technology development, or innovation roles within industry, ideally in one or more of the technology domains outlined above.

Key Responsibilities

This role will play a key part in achieving the objectives of the Client Transformation Team, aligning with IDA Ireland’s strategic plan, "Adapt Intelligently: A Strategy for Sustainable Growth and Innovation." The successful candidate will contribute to advancing Ireland’s position as a global leader in technology, innovation, and sustainable growth.

• Drive Research, Development, and Innovation (RD&I) projects across IDA Ireland, providing domain expertise to guide client discussions and investment proposal development.
• Advise and coach clients on expanding their RD&I goals, ensuring investment targets are met and reinforcing Ireland’s reputation as a hub for global technological innovation.
• Assist the Client Transformation Team in initiatives that develop a highly skilled workforce equipped for emerging technologies and industry advancements.
• Contribute to IDA Ireland’s employment and investment targets across key technology sectors, including Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, Software as a Service, Communications, and Semiconductors.
• Support IDA Operations teams in analysing the impact of evolving technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Computing.
• Influence strategic initiatives in Industry 5.0, AI, Quantum, and Innovation Forums, performing technical assessments of feasibility projects.
• Encourage investments in sustainable and digitally enabled technologies, supporting IDA clients in reducing carbon emissions by 35%.
• Strengthen IDA’s collaboration with technology-focused research centres and key stakeholders to stay informed on emerging R&D initiatives in Ireland.
• Foster a culture of continuous learning and knowledge transfer within the Client Transformation Team.
• Represent IDA Ireland on international marketing trips and capacity-building initiatives, providing insights on current and future trends in the technology sector.
• Uphold dignity, respect, and equality within IDA Ireland, supporting work-life balance and a positive work environment.
• Be open to additional responsibilities as required to support the success of IDA Ireland’s strategic initiatives.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to shape Ireland’s technology landscape, influence global investment decisions and drive innovation across multiple industries.

Key Competencies Required:

• Negotiating and influencing
• Client Focussed Relationship Building
• Communications
• Leadership & Management

• Knowledge of the Business
• Networking
• Sales & Marketing
• Creativity & Innovation
• Project Management

Additional Requirements:

• A relevant Level 8 third level degreein a related science discipline recognised on the National Qualification Framework is essential.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required and adapt to flexible working hours.
• Full, valid driving licence is essential
• Proven influencing and networking experience and strong client relationship building skills are essential.
• Demonstrated international, in market, business experience of working in or working with industry is desirable.
• Experience in one or more of the following: digital transformation models/ process, and/or technology R&D road mapping is desirable.

Salary Scale:

€83,113 - €102,075 per annum contributory superannuation.

Rising by long service increments to €105,211 (after 3 years satisfactory service at the maximum of the range) and to €108,355 (after 6 years satisfactory service at the maximum of the range). N.B Non-negotiable to start at minimum of the scale unless coming from another public sector organisation