Working abroad Tips & Tricks

Jobs in Portugal for English Speakers: everything you need to know I Yobbers

Last update: 27 June, 2023  ◦  18 April, 2023 by
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Parmida  ◦  4 minutes reading time
aerial view of Tower of Belem at sunset, Lisbon, Portugal, on the Tagus River

In this blog, you will learn everything you need to know in order to find a job in Portugal as an English speaker. Are you fluent in English and do you want to live and work in the south of Europe? Yes? Do you not know where and how to start your experience abroad? No? Do not worry and read on! We will tell you where to look for a job, where you will be working and what you will be doing.

Where can I find jobs in Portugal for English speakers? 

First of all, you should know where to start your search for a job in Portugal as an English speaker. There are numerous platforms that can help you find a job abroad, one of the most important of which is of course Yobbers! We are a fast-growing international platform with offices in Leeuwarden and Valencia. Our mission? Inspiring people to discover the world. On our website, you can find all of our vacancies for English speakers in Portugal. Next to that, you will also find numerous blogs on e.g., our favourite food spots and weekend trips. Did you know that you can earn a 300 € reward if you help a friend find a job abroad through Yobbers?

You can scan the list of vacancies and pick one or more that you find interesting. Read through the vacancy carefully, focussing on job requirements (“What do we expect from you?”) and tasks (“What do you have to do?”). Do you like what you read? Add it to your favourites or apply right away! It is important to include an English version of your CV as well, and keep in mind that it is your business card: avoid spelling mistakes. If you could use some help, you can read our tips for a successful application.

Do you speak English fluently? This will definitely play to your advantage while looking for a job abroad, as we have a lot of positions in Portugal for English speakers that require a rather advanced level of English. Both excellent speaking and writing skills are required while applying, and employers often ask for B2 or C1 levels of English. 

B2 means that you are an independent user. You understand the main ideas of a complex text and are able to produce texts on complex topics yourself. In addition, you can easily interact with native English speakers, without having to search for words too often. 

C1 means that you are a proficient user. Similar to the B2 level, you understand complex texts and are able to produce them without any difficulties. In addition, you can detect implicit meaning and use the language in all contexts, ranging from academic to social and informal. In other words, speaking English feels quite natural to you and you are comfortable using the language in your daily life.

Speaking Portuguese might not be required for your job position, but some basic knowledge of day-to-day vocabulary can benefit you when living and working in Portugal. Some employers might offer you Portuguese language classes, which is an opportunity you should not miss out on! You will learn a new language while also meeting a lot of fellow expats. Through these classes, you will make new friends and get to know different cultures. 

Union Jack, English speaker

Where in Portugal will I be working as an English speaker?

Nearly all of the Yobbers vacancies for English-speaking jobs in Portugal are for positions in Lisbon, the capital of the country. Lisbon is located in the west of Portugal and has become the city par excellence for expats and other internationals. A large number of important multinationals have offices in Lisbon and are always eager to take on motivated new talents. The lingua franca in these companies is English, and you will be able to develop yourself and your skills in an international working environment. You can find a complete overview of our vacancies in Portugal for English speakers on our website.

After work, you will have plenty of time to explore the city. Walk through colourful streets, enjoy breathtaking views, look at amazing sunsets and go for drinks in Bairro Alto. On the weekends, you can spend time at the beach, which is only a short drive away! If you want to go on a weekend trip, the Algarve might be a good idea. 

Lisbon view rooftop, Portugal

What will I be doing?

Most of our English-speaking vacancies in Portugal are related to customer service. You handle incoming customer contacts via phone, e-mail and chat tools and provide customers with high-quality service. You ensure a nice customer experience by providing information and solutions to any problems they may have. For these positions, you need excellent English skills and a large dose of motivation and empathy. If you are social and extraverted, customer service might just be the job for you! You will be working in an international working environment, together with expats from all over Europe. Go for drinks after a long day of work and get to know each other, your colleagues might become friends for life!

English-speaking customer service agents in Portugal

Have you read this blog and are you ready for your adventure abroad? Have a look at Yobbers’ vacancies for jobs in Portugal for English speakers and apply today!