Have you ever dreamed of working overseas? Fancy a fresh start? Or just looking to broaden your horizons and try something new?

Expanding your job search to the international market can open up possibilities that you would never expect.

Engineering is an international language and the skills you learn here will be highly sought after all around the world, but where should you start?

Embarking on an international job search can be daunting but the rewards from taking that step could far outweigh the negatives.

A report made in 2016 showed that people working overseas were earning an average of 25% more than at home, and 1 in 10 people even reported doubling their annual salary by making the change. You can view the entire report that was made by HSBC here.

We put together some tips to help you find your perfect overseas posting.

  • Location

Think about where you would like to work.

There is no point in making a move to a country that you are not going to be happy living in. Think about the reasons for the move. Things like the weather, location, way of life, social benefits, healthcare and anything else that may affect your decision. Perhaps work backwards; make a list of places you would like to work and then start breaking down their need for engineers. What sector would have the highest demand, what large companies are located there and how are you able to contact them?

  • Learn the language

Although it is not always essential, if you are moving to a country where you do not speak the mother tongue, you are putting yourself on the back foot. Having the ability to communicate with potential employers is essential, especially when trying to communicate engineering terms.

If you do not speak any other languages, hope is not lost. There are many English-speaking countries in the world, and they all have a need for engineering expertise.

Countries where the majority of the population speak English are:

  • Antigua and Barbuda
  • Australia
  • The Bahamas
  • Barbados
  • Belize
  • Canada
  • Dominica
  • Grenada
  • Guyana
  • Ireland
  • Jamaica
  • New Zealand
  • St Kitts and Nevis
  • St Lucia
  • St Vincent and Grenadines
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • United Kingdom
  • United States of America

So, as you can see, without knowing another language there are still a huge selection of countries that have a population that speaks English and would have jobs in the engineering sector.

  • Research local application processes

Each country has its own methods for recruitment and making sure that you understand the process will make it far easier to secure that dream engineering job overseas. As an example, In Germany it is essential to include a recent photograph with your application. In the USA it is illegal for employers to make a hiring decision based on age, race, gender or nationality so these details are never included in an application.

Make sure that you seek local advice before sending in an application.

When sending in your CV make sure that you have tailored it specifically for that application. Many companies are looking for just the right person to fill a role and showing you are willing to move to a new country to join them is impressive, however, you also want to make sure that the employer understands why you would be an asset to their organisation.

  • Be willing to be flexible

You are looking for a position in another country. Make sure that your perspective employer knows that you are ready to pick up your life and make the move.

One main thing to remember is that job positions arise because there is a spot to fill. Employers need to fill those roles to continue to operate or grow so you can’t expect them to wait a year for you to come and join them.

A lot of companies will make exceptions for applicants from overseas, but they also need extra reassurance that they are making the right decision.

If you are not ready to up and leave immediately then you could consider applying for an engineering job role at a UK company that also has facilities overseas. It is always easier to apply for an internal move overseas to a different facility if you have an established reputation in the company at home. Many employers have internal job postings for people to apply for overseas positions and many companies will help with re-locating and getting you set up.

If you are looking to make a change in your engineering career and are not sure where to start, then talk to our team at BMR Solutions today. Our highly passionate team are here to help you find the best positions available.