US computing giant IBM has announced it will hire up to 75 software engineers for research and development in Waterford over the next three years.
The new hires will focus on developing the IBM Z mainframe computers, working closely with the company's R&D teams around the world to design processors and firmware, develop software, and advance the Linux operating system.
IBM will also deepen its collaboration with South East Technical University to develop a technical skills ecosystem with a focus on mainframes and Linux.
Nathan Cullen, country general manager for IBM Ireland, said the jobs were testament to "the deep talent pools available across the country."
"IBM has now operated in Ireland for nearly 70 years and this milestone investment for the region also speaks volumes about the ecosystem that has built up around the South East Technical University.”
IBM last year announced plans to recruit for 800 high-tech jobs in R&D, digital sales and consulting across its operations in Dublin, Cork and Waterford by 2027.
Jack Chambers, the minister for public expenditure & reform, and Peter Burke, the minister for enterprise, tourism & employment, both welcomed the announcement.
Chambers said the news "underscores Ireland’s attractiveness as a location for businesses to invest in and to expand R&D operations.
"This strengthens IBM’s long-standing presence in Ireland where it employs thousands of people today.
"IBM has cited Ireland’s strong talent pool as a key factor in allowing the company to grow here, which reflects the significant increased investment by the government in education, and particularly our third-level sector, over recent years."
Burke described the investment as "a strong endorsement of the south-east region’s growing reputation as a hub for innovation and advanced technology.
"It also reflects the government’s commitment to supporting regional development and fostering strong partnerships between industry and academia."
Mary Buckley, executive director of IDA Ireland, said: "This R&D investment announced by IBM is fantastic news for Waterford and indeed the South East Region.
"This investment is also closely aligned to Adapt Intelligently: A Strategy for Sustainable Growth and Innovation, 2025-29, where IDA has committed to positioning Ireland at the centre of cutting-edge global technological innovation in the next five years."
Photo: (l-r) Nathan Cullen, Mary Buckley, Jack Chambers, and Ross Mauri of IBM.
