Working in Barcelona
Many expats find the job market in Barcelona less favourable than that of Madrid, and the recent economic downturn certainly
hasn’t improved conditions.
Furthermore, as in greater Spain, salaries tend to be low, though the cost of living continues to rise.
Expats planning on working in Barcelona should try their best to find a position prior to arrival, but if you do arrive without a contract in the wings, there are some stalwarts, like teaching English, to fall back on. When it comes to job hunting in Barcelona though, it’s often said ‘it’s not what you know, but who you know’.
Job market in Barcelona
Traditionally Barcelona was both a major port and trading destination, and a manufacturing hub. Many manufacturing companies continue to prosper today, particularly automotive assembly plants. As of late, the city has become a centre for high-tech industry. Tourism also occupies a huge portion of the city's economy, and employs many expats. Seasonal tourism work is an easy way to start working in Barcelona, and is the most lucrative in early summer.
Barcelona also enjoys a huge foreign investment presence, thus expats looking for employment opportunities are advised to take advantage of connected ventures.
It is important to speak Spanish or Catalan in Barcelona. Although much of the city is accustomed to English speaking tourists, English is not the primary language in which business is conducted.
Expats who can speak both Spanish and English will find themselves with a large advantage, and will certainly be more attractive as candidates for positions with international companies and tourism organisations. Those that only speak English can look for work among the city’s many call centres or in English language schools.
The two best resources catering to the English-speaking community are Metropolitan Magazine, available in many English pubs, or on Loquo.com. La Vangaurdia, a newspaper, also has a well-respected Sunday employment section.
There is a strong work ethic in Barcelona, and late hours are normal, although most employees take a two hour break at mid-day.
