International Expatriate Jobs

When the job market for professionals and experts is tight in developed countries and the opportunities are few, maybe it’s time to consider an overseas posting. It is surprising to see the range of openings that are advertised, the different levels of experience required and the locations that a person can choose to work in. Clients are looking for banking relationship managers in Nigeria, nurses and doctors in the gold mining industry, and even facilities managers in Kazakhstan.

Expatriates can be appointed in various ways:

The placement may be a permanent one, meaning that there is an employment contract that continues until it is terminated by agreement.

Contract appointments are for a fixed term, usually one or two years with a stated end date. There may be an option to renew and possibly a termination bonus.

Interim appointments are made for a period of time that allows for the client to search for a suitable person to fill the role on a longer term basis.

Openings are advertised by on-line specialist job sites and global recruitment agencies. They act for clients in mining, oil and gas, banking, power, I.T and telecommunications, medical and construction industries among others. It is preferable to use a service provider that has experience in the region that you are targeting, especially in Africa, where local knowledge is vital.

The roles that are available are diverse and mostly require people with technical or professional qualifications and a few years experience in their chose field. Applicants with well developed language skills other than English receive preference in locations where the main language is French, Spanish or Portuguese.

Internet research into the employers, their locations, their H.R policies is recommended. There is a wealth of information available for potential expatriates : details on the country that will host them, the relative cost of living and local conditions in each country and the type of lifestyle you can expect. Importantly, use a trusted agent to assist you who can answer the many questions that you may have and who can allay your fears of the unknown. Expand your horizons and look for an international expatriate job that suits you.