With one of the largest and most stable economies in South America, Chile is a prime destination for those looking to further their career. Working in Chile is an attractive prospect, and numerous multinational companies are based here. That said, landing a job can be tough, so expats planning to work in Chile may find that a company transfer to one of these business giants or a similar institution is the easiest way to secure employment.
Job market in Chile
Santiago, the country's capital and commercial hub, has a few thriving industries, particularly in its financial, computer technology and electronics sectors. The city is also the country's centre for industry and manufacturing.
Agriculture and mining are essential primary sector industries in Chile, but the financial and tourism sectors also provide promising opportunities for eager expats. Alternatively, new arrivals with an entrepreneurial spirit can set up a business in Chile, though a lot of research is required. Freelance work done remotely is yet another option.
The job market is restricted in a few ways, though. Employers tend to value qualifications over experience, especially degrees from the US and the UK. Some types of work are also limited to Chilean nationals and have strict requirements for foreign degrees, such as in medicine. These types of jobs require particular Chilean accreditation, which could be a lengthy process – expats should seek the advice of a relocation company or a legal professional to help with this.
Language barriers
Expats in certain industries and in senior-level positions at large companies are likely to get by with just English, while many others find work in the English-language sector. Multinational companies may operate in more than one language, and English may be adequate.
Beyond these kinds of positions, the job market often favours those who speak Spanish. This is good news for expats relocating from other Spanish-speaking countries, though it's important to note that Chilean Spanish has some quirks that may take some time to pick up.
Learning Spanish from scratch is possible for new arrivals who put in the effort, and it's generally recommended. There are many opportunities to take classes and private lessons.
Finding a job in Chile
Expats may be able to find a job before moving to Chile or once they arrive. It’s generally better to have a job in place before moving, because the employing company typically helps process visas and work permits, and it allows for negotiations of expat contracts. Moreover, the fact that expats know what their salary will be gives them a chance to budget for the cost of living in Chile before arriving.
That said, others say that searching for a job after arriving in Chile makes finding employment not only feasible but significantly easier. One reason is that many jobs may require employees to begin work as soon as possible, and only starting the relocation process amid this slows things down.
What’s more, personal relationships are crucial in Chile. Knowing people, having connections and networking are key to doing business and finding work. In fact, job opportunities are often not even published because the hiring party prefers instead to recruit through personal recommendations. One’s network, or pituto, is fundamental.
Nevertheless, online portals, such as LinkedIn and Trabajando, are worth looking at for job-seeking expats.
Useful links
Work culture in Chile
Spanish is the official language in Chile, but many skilled workers and mid-level managers speak English. Knowledge of the local language can open doors to work opportunities, and even those fluent in European Spanish may need to take a few Chilean Spanish lessons to learn some of the regional nuances. Not only does speaking Spanish help expats communicate and do business, but it also shows their respect for local Chileans and their efforts to get to know the people and culture.
Above all else, though, expats working in Chile may be most taken aback by the long working hours. Although office hours on paper seem standard, from around 8.30am to 6pm, they are often extended. The government is introducing measures to change this, with the standard 45-hour workweek gradually reduced to 40 hours over the next few years.