Jobs and Employment on Phuket

Seeking employment in a tropical paradise can be frustrating - and rewarding. 

Competition is often intense and your competitors are often willing to work for significantly lower wages than they would for the same job in their home country, just to have the opportunity to live in such a wonderful setting.  Employers are aware of the competition and sometimes offer poor wages even for jobs that require significant skills, as long as there is some competition.

Fortunately, the tourism industry creates a demand for a wide range of skills from cooks and chefs, to hotel managers, to English teachers.  Other common occupations here include condo salespersons and property developers - and many more. 

Owning a business based in Thailand can be difficult as you will need a Thai partner - and they can complicate things, but it is an option that should not be overlooked.

Use your imagination and you might well be surprised.  Major corporations seeking skilled help will more likely advertise in the major Bangkok newspapers.  But never underestimate the reach of the local Phuket Gazette.

For people with skills that aren't in demand - one option is teaching English.  Several major "TEFL" schools on the island will teach you how to teach English - and one program is quite focused on teaching Thais specifically.  For more on teaching, check out our page on Teaching English