Top 10 Best-Paid Jobs in Spain & Career Paths for Foreigners

Top 10 Best-Paid Jobs in Spain & Career Paths for Foreigners

Spain’s job market is as diverse as its landscapes, with industries ranging from high-paying executive roles in multinational companies to skilled trades in demand across the nation.

For those looking to work in Spain, understanding which sectors offer the highest salaries and which careers are commonly pursued by expatriates can be helpful.

In this guide, we’ll cover the top 10 highest-paying jobs in Spain, followed by a list of popular professions among foreigners living in Spain.

The 10 Best-Paid Jobs in Spain

1. Surgeons and Medical Specialists

Average Salary: €70,000–€100,000+
Overview: Due to the complexity and long years of training, surgeons and specialized doctors are among the top earners in Spain, especially those in private healthcare institutions.

2. Engineering Managers

Average Salary: €60,000–€90,000
Overview: Engineering management, particularly in industries like aeronautics, energy, and construction, commands a high salary as demand grows for infrastructure and technical expertise.

3. IT Managers and Directors

Average Salary: €55,000–€85,000
Overview: With digital transformation a priority, IT managers, especially those experienced in cybersecurity, data science, and cloud technologies, are in high demand in Spain.

4. Banking Executives

Average Salary: €60,000–€90,000+
Overview: High-level positions within banks, particularly in investment banking and finance management, offer high salaries to professionals with a solid financial background and strategic skills.

5. Lawyers and Legal Advisors

Average Salary: €50,000–€80,000+
Overview: Specialized lawyers, particularly those with expertise in corporate, tax, or international law, can earn impressive salaries in Spain’s legal sector.

6. Commercial Pilots

Average Salary: €50,000–€100,000+
Overview: Pilots, especially those flying internationally, earn high salaries due to the responsibility, training, and skill involved in this profession.

7. Pharmacists and Medical Scientists

Average Salary: €45,000–€70,000
Overview: Spain’s healthcare sector values pharmacists, especially those involved in research, with attractive salaries offered in both public and private sectors.

8. Marketing Directors

Average Salary: €50,000–€75,000
Overview: Marketing roles, especially within multinational companies based in major cities like Madrid and Barcelona, offer competitive pay, particularly to those skilled in digital marketing and brand strategy.

9. Financial Analysts and Advisors

Average Salary: €45,000–€65,000
Overview: Financial advisors and analysts, especially those with experience in financial modeling and analysis, are in demand for their ability to manage investments and economic strategies.

10. University Professors and Researchers

Average Salary: €40,000–€60,000+
Overview: Professors in specialized fields, especially within business or medical universities, can earn competitive salaries, with public research grants providing additional income for researchers.

Careers Popular Among Foreigners in Spain

For expatriates in Spain, a variety of roles in diverse industries are accessible and frequently sought-after. Here are common jobs that many foreigners pursue:

1. Language Teachers

Teaching English or other languages is a popular job among foreigners. English teachers, in particular, find opportunities in both private and public schools as well as private tutoring.

2. Customer Service Representatives

Many multinational companies based in Spain hire foreigners for customer service roles, especially those who can provide support in multiple languages.

3. IT and Tech Specialists

Foreign IT professionals are in demand for positions such as software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity.

4. Hospitality and Tourism Staff

The tourism sector in Spain offers numerous roles for foreigners in hotels, restaurants, and tour services, especially those who speak multiple languages.

5. Digital Marketing and Content Creation

Foreigners with expertise in digital marketing, SEO, and content creation often find work with Spanish or international companies focused on online business.

6. Real Estate Agents

Many foreigners in Spain work in real estate, particularly in areas popular with expatriates, assisting other newcomers with property purchases or rentals.

7. Freelance Writers and Translators

Freelancing offers flexibility, making it a popular choice among foreigners for writing, translating, and editing work.

8. Sales Executives

Expats often work in international sales, especially those who can leverage multilingual skills to work with clients abroad.

9. Healthcare Support Roles

Foreigners with healthcare experience may find roles in support functions within private clinics, especially in areas popular among expatriates.

10. Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners

Spain is known for its vibrant community of expat entrepreneurs who start businesses in hospitality, consulting, wellness, and retail.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the Spanish job market can help you make informed decisions about your career in Spain.

Whether you’re aiming for one of the highest-paid roles or pursuing a career commonly held by foreigners, the opportunities are plentiful.

For more insights on living and working in Spain, visit New In Spain.