A Guide to Working in South America
South America is an incredible destination to work. There are lots of different jobs available in a wide range of industries and where you go really depends on your nationality, eligibility, experience and interests.
Although most countries in this continent are developing there are still jobs available for internationals and foreign English speaking workers. Whether you are a student, graduate or just seeking a fresh career change in a new culture and working environment we have job opportunities for you.
Find Jobs By Country
Destinations
Industries
Popular ways to find work in South America include:
- Accountancy & Finance
- Agriculture
- Business, Banking, Financial services & Insurance
- Construction, Architecture & Property
- Languages
- Education, Childcare & Teaching
- Engineering, Energy, Oil & Gas
- Environmental, Health & Safety
- Management
- Healthcare
- Holiday, Seasonal, Summer & Winter Jobs
- Hospitality & Tourism
- Human Resources
- Information Technology
- Marine Biology
- Marketing & Communications
- Ngo & Charity Work
- Project Management & Public Sector
- Publishing, Media & Creative Arts
- Sales
- Social, Voluntary & Vocational
- Summer Camps
- Travel & Tourism
Jobs for Students & Graduates in South America
If you are currently studying and looking for a temporary job, or if you have graduated and would like to work in South America then there are a few options available. We highly recommend taking a TEFL course and teach English in South America.
If you would like to get practical hands on experience check out our internships in South America. One more option you might not have considered is to join a volunteering program in South America which although are unpaid are a great way to meet new professional contacts and have a lot of fun.
Backpacker Jobs in South America
If you are planning to go backpacking or take a gap year in South America there are lots of ways to get short term jobs, from working at hotels and hostels to working in the travel and tourism industry. Some jobs are voluntary in exchange for meals and accommodation whilst others are cash in hand, or fixed salaries.
Freelance Jobs in South America
If you get a remote job, or are self-employed you can also work freelance in South America via the internet. You will get to enjoy the local lifestyle whilst getting paid in a different currency which might help you enjoy a better quality of life.
Visa, Work Permits & Requirements
You will need to apply for a work visa to legally work in most South American countries. Just turning up with the hope of finding work is pretty difficult. Some hostels and companies offer cash in hand jobs to travellers which might appeal if you are backing in the country or want to stay a little longer.
It is not advised to work illegally in the continent. Most jobs to foreigners do not require you to know any of the local languages but we highly recommend learning at least some basic words and phrases. Getting to grips with either Spanish or Portuguese will really boost your employment prospects.
These pages will help you to book classes:
Salary
Wages really depends on the role, company and your experience. You will get paid more working for an international company than a local one. Some countries have higher salaries compared to others.
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