Jobs In Spain For Americans

Finding a job in Spain as an American can be difficult due to their high unemployment rate, but by looking in the right places and sectors, finding a job vacancy can be a possibility. Finding work in Spain is a great choice for those looking to expand their experiences and gain new skills. 

Are you an American who dreams of working abroad and the beautiful country of Spain has caught your interest? Are you eager to begin plans to find employment in Spain, but unsure where to start? Keep reading to learn everything you’ll need to know to begin your job hunt. 

In this article, we will discuss English-speaking jobs in Spain and the highest-paying and most popular jobs. We will also outline how to apply for a work visa, and what to expect when living and working in Spain. 

If you’d like to learn more about Spain and what it has to offer, check out our article on the Best Places to Live in Spain for Expats or Spanish Health Insurance. Additionally, it’s checking your health insurance

Jobs For Americans In Spain

The job market in Spain is tough right now for Americans, with one of the highest unemployment rates in the EU at 12.2%. This makes it difficult to find work for Americans. Because of the high rates, job postings will always be given top priority to Spanish citizens.

In order to be hired for work as an American, you must be given a job from a shortage occupation list. This list is a list of jobs that are difficult to cover, and as such cannot be filled by a Spain citizen. However, there are still a number of sectors and fields that are hiring expats. 

Here is a list of some of the jobs available for Americans in Spain: 

• Business consultants to multinational companies
• IT sector jobs
• Mechanical engineers
• Industrial engineers
• Healthcare assistants
• Tourism and hospitality work
• English language teachers

In Spain, it’s common for most people to find work through word-of-mouth and networking. If you have personal contacts in Spain, ask them if know of any work. You can also network through opportunities provided by the Spanish Chamber of Commerce. 

For more information on being employed abroad, check out our article on Working Abroad as an American today!

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Expat Jobs In Spain

There are different pros and cons to finding work as an expat in Spain, like the job market and the work-life balance. It’s essential to educate yourself on the strengths and weaknesses of working in Spain before you make any major decisions. 

Advantages: 

• Great work-life balance
• Growth opportunities in a new and exciting environment 

Disadvantages: 

• High unemployment rates make finding a job difficult
• Most positions are given priority to Spain citizens
• Salaries vary on region 

English Speaking Jobs In Spain

Speaking only English in Spain will shorten your chances of finding a job, but you can always find employment in the teaching and tourism sectors. For upper-level positions and more specialized careers, being close to fluent in Spanish is an important requisite. 

When moving abroad, it’s important to at least be aware of some common words and phrases so you can better understand and communicate with the locals. 

Here are some jobs available for English speakers in Spain: 

• English teacher
• Tourism workers
• Hospitality workers 
• IT sector work

Advantages And Disadvantages Of English Speaking Jobs In Spain

Some pros and cons to English-speaking jobs in Spain include a smoother transition to the new job, and also limiting your career opportunities. English speakers in Spain are limited, so learning some Spanish is in your best interest. 

Advantages: 

• Smoother transition since you won’t have to worry about learning a new language 
• Communicate more easily with your other English-speaking coworkers

Disadvantages: 

• Seriously limits the number of places you can apply
• Fewer opportunities to network
• Limits your career opportunities

How To Get A Job In Spain As An American 

Some steps you can take to find a job in Spain as an American include looking at online websites like thinkSPAIN for job postings and networking. Speculative applications are also a great choice, and looking around for multinational companies that are hiring is an option as well. 

You can also network with expat groups and staffing agencies. When preparing to begin job searching in Spain, make sure to brush up on your CV (Curriculum Vitae). You will need to attach this along with a cover letter to any applications you fulfill. 

Here are the things to include on a CV: 

• Personal details and information
• Headshot
• Work experience
• Educational experience
• Skills and relevant interests

Some helpful tips to remember in order to get a job are that any specialized skills that set you apart will up your chances of being chosen. For example, if applying for an English language teaching job, get a TEFL certificate to increase your chances of being selected for the position. 

Work Visa

The two main types of work visas available for Americans in Spain are the employee visa and the self-employed visa. Americans who are hired by a company will apply for an employee visa, whereas freelancers will apply for a self-employed visa. 

The steps to procuring an employee visa in Spain are as follows: 

1. Secure a job from a Spanish employer.
2. The employer will request a work permit for you at their local office of the Ministry of Labor.  
3. You get a copy of the visa application. 
4. You request an appointment with your local Spanish embassy and bring the copy of the visa application with you to your appointment. 
5. The local Spanish embassy will notify the Ministry of Labor of your application. 
6. The Ministry of Labor processes your application, and the Spanish embassy issues your work visa. 

After you receive a work permit from your employer, you will be given an NIE number, which identifies you as a foreigner. Your employer will register you for Social Security, but it is your job to visit the local Social Security Treasury for your affiliation number after you arrive in Spain. 

In order to apply for a visa at your local Spanish embassy, you will need several documents. Here is a list of the documents you will need: 

• Completed visa application form 
• Valid passport
• Photograph
• Criminal record 
• Work authorization form
• Proof of accommodation
• Proof of any qualifications relating to work in Spain
• Any licenses needed to carry out work in Spain 

Upon arrival in the country, you will be expected to apply for a residence permit at your local Foreigner’s Office or police station within 30 days of entering the country. 

The Factors that Influence Your Salary in Spain

While the average salary in Spain provides a general idea of earnings, your actual gross salary will depend on several key factors, including your career field, your location, your nationality, your level of experience, and your level of education. 

Here’s how each one can impact your income, especially for expats looking for jobs in Spain:

• 1. Career Field: Different industries offer varying salary levels. For example, jobs in technology, finance, and engineering typically pay more than those in hospitality or retail. Ensure your skills align with high-demand sectors for better compensation.
• 2. Location in Spain: Salaries can vary significantly depending on the region. Major cities like Madrid and Barcelona generally offer higher wages due to the higher cost of living, while rural areas and smaller cities may offer less.
• 3. Nationality: Your nationality can influence your salary, especially if you possess language skills or qualifications that are in high demand. Additionally, non-EU citizens may face different tax implications and visa requirements that could affect their net income.
• 4. Experience Level: More experienced professionals tend to command higher salaries. Demonstrating a proven track record in your field can significantly boost your earning potential.
• 5. Level of Education: Higher educational qualifications, such as a master’s degree or specialized certifications, can lead to better job opportunities and higher pay. Employers often value advanced degrees that are relevant to the job.
• 6. Gender: Unfortunately, gender can still play a role in salary disparities. Awareness of these differences can help you negotiate better and ensure you receive fair compensation for your work.

Highest Paying Jobs In Spain 

The highest-paying jobs in Spain include doctors, surgeons, judges, and more. These positions are generally filled by locals, and due to the high unemployment rates, they are first offered to Spanish citizens.

Here is a list of the highest-paying jobs in Spain : 

• Surgeons/doctors
• Civil Engineering Project Managers
• Sales Managers
• IT Directors
• Judges
• Lawyers
• Bank managers
• CEOs (Chief Executive Officer)
• CFOs (Chief Financial Officers)
• Orthodontists
• College Professors
• Pilots
• Marketing Directors

According to EPyCE’s report, the following list shows the professions with the highest demand in Spain:

• Computer Engineers
• Data Scientists
• Computer Programmers
• Industrial Engineers
• Business Developers

Requirements for these jobs are strict, with the necessary educational level, degrees, certification, and experience being a must for those applying. If you have a high educational level and the right skill set, you could try applying for one of these competitive positions.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Being A Surgeon Or Doctor In Spain

Choosing to be a surgeon or doctor in Spain comes with it’s own set of pros and cons, like a high salary but also competitive field. Spain is praised for its healthcare, and provides excellent care to its citizens. You can weigh the pros and cons before applying to help make your decision. 

Advantages: 

• Excellent salaries
• Great job growth and opportunities
• Always in need of more healthcare professionals

Disadvantages: 

• These positions generally are filled by locals
• Spanish fluency is a must
• Competitive field of work

Popular Jobs In Spain

Some of the most popular jobs in Spain include IT work, tourism, food and beverage sector work and more. Spain has a booming tourism industry, and so finding workers to keep it running smoothly will always be a priority for busy employers. 

Here is a list of the most popular jobs in Spain: 

• Tourism and hospitality
• IT work
• Food and beverage work
• Automotive industry 
• Pharamceuticals industry 

Each job will come with its own requirements, so be aware when applying that you can match the expectations the employers may have. Keep in mind that most work will be found in Madrid, Barcelona or Seville, and finding work in rural Spain will be much less likely. 

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Working Tourism In Spain 

There are varied advantages and disadvantages to working in the tourism industry in Spain, like accessibility for Americans and possibility for low salaries. Tourism is a growing field of work, and make sure you do all your research before you begin your application process. 

Advantages: 

• Accessible for Americans and native English-speakers
• Spanish fluency not necessary but appreciated
• Job openings are much more common 

Disadvantages: 

• Salaries can be on the lower end depending on position 
• Limited to only bigger cities 

Living And Working In Spain

Living and working in Spain means enjoying an excellent work-life balance, friendly and welcoming locals, and beautiful surroundings. Spain citizens are known for their relaxed, non-hurried approach to life, and enjoy art, dance, music, and beautiful architecture. 

The cost of living in Spain is on average 44% cheaper than the United States. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Spain ranges from around $515-669, and groceries are substantially cheaper as well. 

Some examples of culture differences in Spain include the “siesta”, the midday break some workers take. However, these “siestas” may not be supported by all companies, so make sure you check in with your company’s rules before you assume anything. 

Conclusion

Spain is a beautiful country with a lot to offer to those looking to move abroad, but finding work can be challenging. Looking for work in booming industries like tourism and IT work can help you increase your chances of landing your dream job in this beautiful country. 

Additionally, moving abroad can be stressful, as can finding international health insurance. Contact an insurance expert at Pacific Prime and get a free insurance quote today!

If you’re interested in looking at other countries’ job markets, check out our articles on working in Portugal and Greece today, or read about Spanish Health Insurance to stay insured during your expat life in Spain.

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Jantra Jacobs

Senior Copywriter at Pacific Prime

Jantra Jacobs is a Senior Copywriter at Pacific Prime with over 10 years of writing and editing experience. She writes and edits a diverse variety of online and offline copy, including sales and marketing materials ranging from articles and advertising copy to reports, guides, RFPs, and more.

Jantra curates and reports on the results of Pacific Prime’s monthly newsletters, as well as manages Pacific Prime’s Deputy Global CEO’s LinkedIn posts. Complemented by her background in business writing, Jantra’s passion for health, insurance, and employee benefits helps her create engaging content - no matter how complex the subject is.

Growing up as a third-culture kid has given her a multicultural perspective that helps her relate to expats and their families while 8 years of working remotely have given her unique insight into hybrid work arrangements and enthusiasm for employee benefits.

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