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.

Working as a Telemarketing Worker in Málaga:
Choosing Between an Office Job and Co-Working Spaces

The sunny Málaga area is increasingly becoming a hotspot for telemarketing professionals, offering an inviting combination of a beautiful environment, affordable living costs,
and a growing job market in customer service and sales.

If you’re considering telemarketing work in Málaga, you’ll likely come across two main options for your workspace:
working from a traditional office job or renting a desk from a co-working space.

Each choice has its own set of benefits and drawbacks that can significantly impact your work-life balance, productivity, and job satisfaction.

Here’s a detailed look at the pros and cons of both options.

1. Traditional Office Job

Pros of Working in a Traditional Office

• Structure and Stability: Working in a dedicated office environment provides a structured routine, which can improve productivity and maintain a clear boundary between work and personal life.
• Team Collaboration: An office setting encourages teamwork and provides face-to-face interaction with colleagues, which can be motivating and help build strong working relationships.
• Provided Equipment: Offices typically come equipped with all necessary telemarketing tools: phones, headsets, computers, and software. This setup reduces the need to invest in your own technology.
• Supervision and Guidance: Having supervisors and managers nearby can be beneficial for receiving immediate feedback, guidance, and support, especially in sales-focused roles.
• Opportunities for Advancement: Working in an office may present clearer opportunities for growth within the company, including promotions, bonuses, and professional development programs.

Cons of Working in a Traditional Office

• Commute: Commuting to and from the office, especially during peak hours, can be time-consuming and costly.
• Less Flexibility: Office jobs generally follow fixed schedules, which can limit flexibility for personal matters and make it harder to achieve a work-life balance.
• Potential for Distractions: While offices can foster teamwork, they can also be noisy, with colleagues, phone calls, and meetings potentially interrupting focus.
• Dress Code: Many offices have dress codes, which might require additional costs for professional attire and less comfort compared to a casual workspace.
• Higher Stress Levels: The sales-oriented nature of telemarketing work, combined with the pressure of a monitored environment, can sometimes lead to stress and reduced morale.

2. Renting a Desk from a Co-Working Space

Pros of Working in a Co-Working Space

• Flexibility: Co-working spaces often offer flexible rental options, from daily desk rentals to monthly plans, allowing you to choose what works best for your schedule and budget.
• Networking Opportunities: Co-working spaces are filled with professionals from diverse fields, creating networking opportunities that could lead to new clients, job offers, or collaborations.
• Modern Amenities and Comfort: Most co-working spaces offer modern amenities, including ergonomic seating, quiet areas, and sometimes even lounges, kitchens, and coffee stations, which create a comfortable environment.
• Work-Life Balance: A co-working space can serve as a middle ground between an office and remote work, allowing you to separate your work and personal life without a rigid office schedule.
• Creative Atmosphere: Many co-working spaces are designed with creativity and collaboration in mind, with open layouts, natural light, and stylish décor, which can boost motivation and inspiration.

Cons of Working in a Co-Working Space

• Cost: Renting a desk in a co-working space, especially in Málaga’s popular areas, can add up over time, ranging from €100 to €400 per month depending on location and amenities.
• Lack of Supervision: Working independently in a co-working space means you won’t have a supervisor nearby, which could be a disadvantage if you need frequent feedback or guidance.
• Potential for Distractions: While co-working spaces are generally quieter than traditional offices, they can still be bustling, with other workers’ conversations or activities becoming distractions.
• Limited Availability of Equipment: Unlike a dedicated office, you may need to bring or rent your own telemarketing tools, such as headsets or specific software, which could incur additional costs.
• Less Job Stability: Working from a co-working space often comes with more contractual and freelance-style roles, meaning less job security and fewer company benefits than a permanent office job might offer.

Summary Table of Pros and Cons

Conclusion

Choosing between a traditional office job and a co-working space in Málaga depends on your personal preferences, career goals, and work style.
If you prefer structure and enjoy working closely with a team, a traditional office environment may be more suitable.

On the other hand, if you value flexibility, networking, and a modern atmosphere, a co-working space might be the better option.

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

The Reality for Young Spaniards
Being young in Spain today often means facing significant financial challenges, particularly due to low wages, rising living costs, and a tough job market.
Despite having one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, the reality for many young Spaniards is far from idyllic.
Surviving on small salaries has become the norm, with many struggling to meet basic expenses like rent, food, and transportation.

Low Wages and High Unemployment
Spain’s youth unemployment rate has been historically high compared to other European nations.
Although it has improved slightly in recent years, it remains one of the biggest challenges for young people.
The average monthly salary for young workers is often below €1,200, with many earning even less in part-time or temporary jobs.
With many jobs being temporary or poorly paid, this makes it difficult to save money, plan for the future, or even afford basic living expenses
​(Spain.info)​(Scope Group).

The Cost of Living
The cost of living in Spain has increased, especially in cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia. Rent prices in urban areas can consume up to 40-50% of a young person’s salary,
with the average monthly rent for a small apartment ranging from €600 to €1,000.
Many young people are forced to live with their parents well into their late twenties or thirties because they cannot afford to move out​
(EmbassyPages).

In addition to housing, everyday costs like groceries, transportation, and utilities make life even more challenging.
Public transport costs, although relatively affordable, still add up, with a monthly pass in major cities costing between €40 and €60. Meanwhile,
food and basic groceries can cost a young person around €200 to €300 per month.

Side Hustles and Gigs
In response to the low salaries, many young Spaniards turn to side jobs, freelancing, or the gig economy to make ends meet.
Platforms like Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Glovo have become popular, with many young people taking up food delivery or driving jobs as a way to supplement their incomes.
However, these jobs often come with no job security or benefits, further contributing to financial instability​
(Ministry of Foreign Affairs).

Shared Housing and “Mileuristas”
A common solution to the housing crisis is shared living.
Many young adults share apartments with multiple roommates to divide the costs, though even this can still be expensive in larger cities.
This trend has led to the rise of the so-called “mileuristas”—a term used to describe young people earning around €1,000 per month, barely enough to cover basic expenses​
(Ministry of Foreign Affairs).

Mental Health and Social Impact
The constant financial pressure is taking a toll on the mental health of young people in Spain.
Many feel trapped in a cycle of low-paying jobs, unable to advance in their careers or achieve financial independence.
This stress often leads to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and hopelessness.
The inability to afford social activities or even basic leisure further isolates many from enjoying the vibrancy of Spanish life​
(Scope Group).

Coping with Creativity
Despite these struggles, young Spaniards have found creative ways to make the most of their situation.
From organizing free social events to embracing minimalism, they’ve learned to live on less while still finding joy in Spain’s beautiful landscapes,
vibrant culture, and strong social connections.

Additionally, many have embraced entrepreneurship or remote work opportunities in hopes of finding better income streams
​(Spain.info).

Conclusion
Being young in Spain today means navigating a complex landscape of low wages, high living costs, and economic uncertainty.
For many, surviving on a small salary involves shared housing, side gigs, and cutting down on non-essential expenses.
Despite the challenges, young Spaniards continue to show resilience, adapting creatively to find ways to survive—and thrive—in this difficult economic climate.