Finding a Job in Spain
The type of employment sought will depend on the following factors:
- how long you intend to stay there;
- where you intend to stay;
- your qualifications, skills and experience;
- family support and outgoings.
Casual or Seasonal
This type of work is ideal for anyone who has not firmed up a long-term life plan or seeking a few euros while enjoying a life in the sun. It is not too easy to come by, usually involves lots of asking around, and may need a personal recommendation. Work of this nature is more likely to be found in tourist regions where there is a seasonal demand for labour. The best example of this is a courier or rep's job with a major holiday company.
- agencies for villa servicing and cleaning
- auxiliary nursing
- construction work
- courier or driving jobs
- fruit picking
- gardening
- ice cream salesperson
- promotional work
- restaurants and hotels for waiting or kitchen work
- shop assistant.
Part-Time
For someone staying long term and needing a little extra income, some help may be found from the few job agencies, but asking around is essential. Without a command of the language you again are restricted to the holiday regions. Examples of part-time work are:
- office work
- supermarkets
- teaching English
- working in a multilingual estate agent's office.
Full-Time
Seeking a permanent, professional position? The procedure is exactly the same as back home. Employment agencies, direct contact with companies, word of mouth and personal contact are all necessary. A good CV in English and Spanish, to sell your skills, is helpful. Working full time involves a different working day, correct business etiquette, payment of social security and income tax.
People who are fluent in Spanish and English can find work in the major cities as translators and interpreters where the task involves business correspondence or assisting northern Europeans with some Spanish paperwork, or even at police stations on busy market days where petty theft is common and an interpreter is necessary.
