Working in Los Angeles
California is often credited as the nation's most fertile ground for innovation, and Los Angeles, alongside San Francisco, is one of the primary driving forces behind the state's spirit of ingenuity and sense of creativity. Additionally, expats considering working in LA will find themselves at the heart of a well-oiled manufacturing machine and amidst one of the world's busiest ports.
The city's economy is exceptionally diverse, but due to it's impressive population - the second highest in the country - the varied nature of business in LA doesn't always equate with job opportunity.
First and foremost, Los Angeles seems to be synonymous with the entertainment industry. Since Hollywood settled onto the scene both local and foreign migrants have abandoned dour 9 to 5 positions, opting rather to move to LA to follow dreams of stardom and fame. Funny enough, the influx of aspiring actors and actresses is actually responsible for the success of the city's largest industry, tourism.
The entertainment industry, is in fact, only the fourth largest industry in the city, preceded by both business services and international trade. Additionally, expats with a background in finance will find a large representation of foreign banks and corporates in the metropolis, and an inter-company transfer may be in fact the easiest way to pursue employment in LA.
Aside from opportunities in these sectors, the Los Angeles working world is increasingly becoming technology driven. Digital information technology, biomedical technology and environmental technology are dominating the "new economy". Expats with specialised skills in these areas are more likely to find a job in the city.
Expats will need a work permit to be legally employed in LA.
In a city with an increasingly digital legacy, it comes as no surprise that online employment listings abound and are the best way to find a job in Los Angeles. General sites, like Craigslist.com and Monster.com, do exist, but expats will also find an assortment of industry specific options.
For those who favour more traditional media the "Classifieds" section of the Los Angeles Times has job listings organised by county.
Networking is also a fantastic way to find a job in Los Angeles, and thanks to the access afforded by social media, even expats located abroad can start seeding queries and making contacts. LinkedIn is the preferred site of recruiters and headhunters.
Business culture in LA is a bit more laid back than on the East Coast; expats can expect more casual dress in the workplace and creative company perks – specifically in the edgy tech corporations.
Working hours are usually from 8am or 9am to 5pm, and many business meetings are conducted over lunch.
The city's economy is exceptionally diverse, but due to it's impressive population - the second highest in the country - the varied nature of business in LA doesn't always equate with job opportunity.First and foremost, Los Angeles seems to be synonymous with the entertainment industry. Since Hollywood settled onto the scene both local and foreign migrants have abandoned dour 9 to 5 positions, opting rather to move to LA to follow dreams of stardom and fame. Funny enough, the influx of aspiring actors and actresses is actually responsible for the success of the city's largest industry, tourism.
The entertainment industry, is in fact, only the fourth largest industry in the city, preceded by both business services and international trade. Additionally, expats with a background in finance will find a large representation of foreign banks and corporates in the metropolis, and an inter-company transfer may be in fact the easiest way to pursue employment in LA.
Aside from opportunities in these sectors, the Los Angeles working world is increasingly becoming technology driven. Digital information technology, biomedical technology and environmental technology are dominating the "new economy". Expats with specialised skills in these areas are more likely to find a job in the city.
Expats will need a work permit to be legally employed in LA.
Finding a job in Los Angeles
In a city with an increasingly digital legacy, it comes as no surprise that online employment listings abound and are the best way to find a job in Los Angeles. General sites, like Craigslist.com and Monster.com, do exist, but expats will also find an assortment of industry specific options.
- SnagAJob.com for part-time work
- CreativeCircle.com for jobs in advertising, publishing, marketing and design
- CyberCoders.com for technology related employment opportunities
- ExploreTalent.com for those searching for casting calls
- JobsinSports.com for positions in the sports world
For those who favour more traditional media the "Classifieds" section of the Los Angeles Times has job listings organised by county.
Networking is also a fantastic way to find a job in Los Angeles, and thanks to the access afforded by social media, even expats located abroad can start seeding queries and making contacts. LinkedIn is the preferred site of recruiters and headhunters.
Business culture in Los Angeles
Business culture in LA is a bit more laid back than on the East Coast; expats can expect more casual dress in the workplace and creative company perks – specifically in the edgy tech corporations.
Working hours are usually from 8am or 9am to 5pm, and many business meetings are conducted over lunch.
