There are plenty of reasons expats may find themselves looking for work in a foreign country – not least to supplement their income or expand their professional experience. 

Typical entry-level professions 

While searching for a job is easy enough where applicants have a specific role in mind, it can be harder for those looking to switch careers or even venture into salaried work for the first time. 

The world over, there are a number of jobs considered more accessible to those without specialised skills or experience. These generally fall into the categories of hospitality, retail and childcare. Popular with young adults venturing into the workplace for the first time, these professions are also sought by part-time workers, those with limited language skills and people seeking a low-commitment role that can be flexibly managed. 

In addition, there are a variety of job roles that require little or no formal training which are often overlooked and, in some cases, pay a competitive salary. In the UK, business development representatives, auditors and office managers are likely to earn above or close to the average annual salary with minimal training required. In other countries, such job roles are likely to vary according to national or regional demand, as well as the country’s skills demographic, as outlined below. 

Entry level jobs in Portugal 

Those looking for work in Portugal may be glad to hear that last year, there were at least ten different entry-level positions paying more than twice the average monthly salary. These are outlined by online publication ‘Portugal Business News’, which cites Hays’ Portugal Salary Guide 2023. 

Some of the jobs advertised require knowledge of the designated sector, or else higher education in a related subject. None, however, call for extensive experience in industry. Amongst the job roles listed are E-Commerce Officer, with an average salary of €3,071 per month; Maintenance Manager, with an average salary of €2,750 and Risk Analyst, earning approximately €3,000 per month. 

A possible obstacle for expats to overcome when applying for such jobs is a lack of native language skills. Those without fluency in Portuguese could find their options a little more limited; however, there are still a number of career options. In particular, the IT and tech industry is open to English-speaking applicants, as public engagement is not a primary job function. Moreover, non-Portuguese speakers may find work in the tourism sector with relative ease. 

Entry level jobs in Singapore 

As in Portugal, there are some entry-level jobs in Singapore which require higher education; not all careers are closed-off to those who left education after high school, however. Recruitment experts at Indeed.com explain that a degree isn’t necessary for certain vocations, and may even limit applicants whose time at university deprived them of practical work experience. 

Michael Page recruitment agency provides a list of Singapore’s highest-paying jobs. While high salaries generally accompany high-responsibility roles such as heads of departments, the list gives an indication into the sectors which pay the most; of the ten best paid jobs, six are associated with the financial services sector.  

Other lucrative senior positions exist within Human Resources (HR), manufacturing, technology and marketing. For those with existing skills in one of these areas, or willing to work their way up, entry-level positions may quickly lead to promotion and a more rewarding salary.  

Entry level jobs in Australia 

In Australia, several of the best-paid roles for entry-level candidates fall within the sectors already mentioned. It’s possible to start out as a complete newbie, for example, within the finance or tech industries – and consequently, to achieve a well-paid career within only a couple of years. 

Renowned branding agency Arielle Executive also recommends real estate as well as digital roles which can help to hone transferable skills. Virtual assistants, for example, can earn up to $60 per hour in certain sectors, while HR assistants can enjoy rapid career progression, aspiring to management roles worth $150,000 per annum. 

Sales roles can also be lucrative, and suit people who are sociable or extroverted – perfect for those who may not have an academic background. According to Arielle executive, Sales Representatives are amongst the highest-paid jobs in Australia, and often enjoy the perk of commission on top of a competitive salary. 

How to upskill 

One of the main obstacles to career progression – or even securing a job in the first instance – is a lack of language skills. As mentioned earlier, there are sectors in which a good grasp of the local language is less important – but not being able to speak to potential recruiters can certainly hold you back. To address this shortcoming, budding overseas jobseekers may find it helpful to enroll on a language course or join a conversation group. 

Another barrier to expats seeking employment is navigating unfamiliar job markets. Recruitment firm LocalHR recommends doing some research and networking with local industry professionals to get a clear idea of what to expect. Moreover, application customs could vary by country; if you suspect this may be the case, consider cultural awareness training. 

Achieving career satisfaction 

While this article has focused upon the best paid entry-level jobs, it’s important to note that salary alone doesn’t determine job satisfaction. Earning enough to support a comfortable lifestyle is a big perk, but to get the most from your career, it’s important to consider other factors as well. 

These could include job security, hours and working environment. For example, working nights as an HGV driver may pay well but could take a toll on sleeping patterns and family life, if it means spending time in bed when loved ones are awake and vice versa. 

To find a truly rewarding career, research roles that appeal to your interests and personality as well as your lifestyle aspirations – expat recruitment sites are a good place to start.