Top 5 Jobs for Overseas Filipino Workers

If you’re Filipino and planning to work overseas (or you’re working overseas already, but you’re wondering about other job options) it pays to do a little research to determine which skills will give you the best chance of securing a high-paying, enjoyable job. In this post, we’re going to take you through the 5 most popular jobs for overseas Filipino workers.

1. Healthcare and Nursing

Many Filipinos are successfully finding work abroad as nurses and caregivers in the healthcare arena. This is a sensible decision. After all, the healthcare industry grows perfectly alongside the population. Many developed countries, including the United States and New Zealand, have a current shortage of nurses and chances of getting a job are therefore quite high for someone with the right skills.

This demand for skilled workers will only increase as the “baby boomer generation” begins to age and retire, requiring more extensive healthcare. Keep in mind that nurses are also required in times of disaster. At the higher end nurses can earn around $70,000 NZD/AUD annually, particularly with experience.

Canada keeps its door open for Filipino nurses also, particularly if you’re well trained. Other countries also accept Filipino workers in the healthcare sector, such as Japan, however you’ll have to pass extensive exams and ensure you’re capable of communicating clearly in Japanese.

Every country has its own set of requirements, so you’ll have to make sure to research these on an individual basis. New Zealand requires a Master’s degree in Nursing or Health Science and many hours of on the job training – so make sure you’re prepared! It may well cost you to acquire these qualifications too, so just be careful.

2. Construction, Trades and Labour

Many Filipino expats find consistent work in the construction and labour sectors. For example, the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes in Christchurch, New Zealand caused significant damage to the city. Much of this needed to be rebuilt through the efforts of both skilled and unskilled construction workers. Filipino workers were targeted for these positions because of their reputation for a strong work ethic and excellent skills.

Filipinos are also commonly employed as seasonal workers in New Zealand, where there is great demand for unskilled labour.

Factories also desire Filipino workers – particularly if you have skills in welding, electronics and machine repair. Many countries also have a high demand for plumbers and electricians. There is a current shortage for these practical skills and therefore those that have them are paid fairly and have high job security. Keep in mind that certain trades, particularly electricians and plumbers, require certification and examination in most countries in order to get a job. Most workers in these areas can earn around $35,000 – 60,000 (NZD) a year.

3. Engineers

There are plenty of job opportunities abroad for Filipino engineers. Many countries in Africa have a high demand for workers in this field. Libya called for Filipino workers to develop its infrastructure projects a number of years ago, and this trend seems set to continue. Engineers are also in demand in Korean firms, like Hyundai – however language barriers can be an issue. There are also a large number of engineering jobs available in the Middle East (Qatar, Saudi Arabia etc) for those who are particularly skilled. Australia has a particular demand for engineers also, so this is a strong profession that is demanded globally.

The average Civil Engineering wage in New Zealand is around $80,000 – $100,000 a year, however this requires many years of training and certification to achieve.

4. Administrative Workers and Clerks

If you’re proficient in any given language, and have good writing, typing and office skills, you may want to consider a career in administration. Employers in Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates frequently hire Filipino workers for administration jobs as clerks and office staff.

Very few qualifications are required for roles as an administrator, particularly in New Zealand, as most skills are learned on the job through experience. You’ll need to have good communication skills and be organised. Many administration professionals earn around NZD $35,000 – 60,000 per year, which is high considering the relatively low entry requirements.

5. Teaching

Many Pinoy workers find teaching an attractive profession when looking for a job overseas as they can earn a salary many times what they could in the Philippines. Filipino teachers are also highly valued for their usually excellent English skills. Teachers are also in high demand in more remote and rural areas, making this a good career choice.

Most teaching, at any level, will require some form of degree qualification. On top of this, many countries will require a post-graduate teaching certificate. In New Zealand, you must also be registered with the New Zealand Teachers Council – although every country has different requirements.

Finding work overseas can sometimes be tough. It’s important that you research your chosen profession and destination extensively before making any commitments. You should also prepare financially – particularly if you haven’t received confirmation of work, before leaving the Philippines. Good luck with life working overseas – and remember, if you need to send remittances home cheaply, OrbitRemit has you covered!