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Jobs in Costa Rica

Since abolishing its army in 1948, Costa Rica has become a peaceful oasis in Central America. With active volcanoes, lush rainforests, sandy beaches, and exotic wildlife, it’s easy to see why it’s a top destination. But it’s the friendly Ticos and their Pura Vida way of life that make people stay, whether you're teaching English, working in tourism, or helping preserve the country's incredible biodiversity.
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international teachers

Featured Provider of the Month

10 Jobs in Costa Rica

Arenal volcano in Costa Rica
International TEFL Academy logo

International TEFL Academy

9.63

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Get TEFL Certified & Teach English in Costa Rica!

Do you want to get paid to live and teach English in Costa Rica? ...

See All 3 Programs
Three people wearing Maximo Nivel shirts
MAXIMO NIVEL logo

MAXIMO NIVEL

8

1

Virtual International Internships - Go Global!

Even if you can’t travel, international internships are still an ...

Travel For Teens

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1

International Trip Director/ Camp counselor

Travel For Teens is looking for qualified candidates to be Trip Directors and Counselors for programs throughout Europe. Potential program leaders must be over 21 years old and able to commit to at least two summers. Successful candidates are reliable, passionate about travel and different cultures, and have experience working with teens. All staff must attend mandatory training at our headquarters. Responsibilities: Ensuring the safety of our group Creating and maintaining a positive environment Teaching and infusing knowledge of the locations we travel Creating lifelong enjoyable memories Keeping a clear line of communication with parents and office staff Completing day-to-day tasks that include errands and odd jobs Qualifications: Excellent communication skills, both written and spoken Fluency in English Knowledge of European languages is a bonus Ability to maintain a positive attitude Intimate knowledge in locations and cultures where we travel Experience and a passion for working with teens Ability to work well in a team environment Travel experience in the locations where we travel Please contact us for application details.

Gapforce

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1

Cost Rica Dive Instructor Training

Kick-start your career with our 10-week Marine Expedition & Dive Instructor Training Course in Costa Rica and become a fully qualified PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor with Expedition Leadership & Resort Management skills. More than just a Dive Instructor Course, you will learn leadership and resort management skills, enabling you to pursue a career working in a dive shop or leading marine conservation expeditions. If you're a top performer, you may be offered work at the dive school after completing the outdoor course to further boost your experience and career prospects. The minimum requirements to join this course are as follows: - You must have held your PADI Open Water certification for at least 6 months before departure; - You must have at least 30 logged dives* - You must have completed your PADI Advanced Open Water certification before the program start date* * If you don’t have your Advanced Open Water certification or 30 dives, ask your program advisor to add the Extra Dives Option to your program, and we'll organize an extra one or two weeks of diving at the start of your course to get you up to the required level!

Greenheart Travel

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Teach English in Costa Rica with Greenheart Travel

We are excited to assist the Costa Rican Government’s “English Training for Employability” initiative, which provides intensive English education and life skills training to local communities. The goal of this program is to empower at-risk young adults so they can gain employment at local businesses that require basic to intermediate levels of English. Program at a glance: • 4-month volunteer English teaching placement • Housing and meals with a local Costa Rican host family • Placements throughout Costa Rica • Extensive 4-day group orientation upon arrival in San Jose Qualifications: Native English speaker Ages 21-45 TEFL/TESOL Certification

TEFL Heaven

9.91

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Paid Teaching in Costa Rica & Lifetime Placement Guarantee

Teach English abroad in Costa Rica and experience firsthand the locals’ simple, positive outlook on life—“pura vida.” Included is a guaranteed job placement at one of our trusted partner schools, with a salary ranging from $700 to $1,500. We provide extensive support before your departure, round-the-clock assistance in Costa Rica during your teaching placement, and the chance to earn your TESOL/TEFL certification in San Ramon or online. This makes our program the top choice for those looking to teach in Costa Rica! Already have a TEFL/TESOL certification? We have a program designed for you that comes with guaranteed job placement, full support, and a 1-week group orientation filled with cultural activities and outings! Feeling ready? Apply now, but hurry as spaces are being snapped up fast: 12th February 2024 - FULL 8th April 2024- spaces available 3rd June 2024 - spaces available 15th July 2024 - spaces available 19th August 2024 - spaces available 25th November 2024 - spaces available We recommend booking at least three months before your preferred start date. Inquire now to chat with one of our Abroad Advisors—who all have also taught abroad!

OnTESOL

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Teach English Abroad with OnTESOL

There’s no better way to earn income, make an impact on others, and discover the world than by teaching English abroad! This is exactly what we offer at OnTESOL—the opportunity to take on a teaching job at your desired location in Asia, Europe, Central and South America, and the Middle East. Traveling and teaching in another country is perfect for recent university graduates interested in taking a gap year, professionals looking for a career change, and individuals who simply want to experience a new environment. Generally, teaching English requires the following: - University degree - Accredited TESOL, TESL, or TEFL Certification (at least 120 hours) - Native and non-native English speakers OnTESOL can connect you with a broad range of positions across diverse placements: entry-level, professional, IELTS preparation, and Business English. Teach in language academies, private and public schools, and educational institutions. Talk to us today and we’ll help you find a truly rewarding English teaching job abroad!

BongO hostel

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Reception, Cooking & Housekeeping Volunteer Positions

We are recruiting volunteers for our hostel in Costa Rica. Positions (for preferably monthly stays) are available through April 2026. Volunteers work 5 hours/day 5 days/week. Compensation for volunteers are air conditioned dorm room accommodations and 3 meals (vegetarian). We are located in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. Our hostel features 25 bungalows in a tropical environment near several Pacific coast beaches. Our facilities include a restaurant and two swimming pools. The hostel is five minutes east of shops in downtown Quepos, Costa Rica.

How to Work Abroad in Costa Rica

Prepare for Jobs in Costa Rica

Set goals

It’s not the most common first tip, but if you’re looking for a job in Costa Rica, start by figuring out what you actually want from the experience.

  • Think about your pace. Do you want a chill job by the beach, or something more structured in a city like San José? Costa Rica has both, but knowing your rhythm helps you narrow it down.
  • Get clear on your purpose. Are you working to fund your travels? Building your resume? Or testing out long-term expat life? These goals will shape what kind of job and visa you’ll need.
  • Don’t wing the language. Spanish is widely spoken across the country, and while English is common in touristy areas, brushing up on your Spanish will open more job doors (and earn you respect with locals).

Understand the benefits

Costa Rica has more than just tropical perks. Working here can seriously boost your quality of life.

  • The work culture is chill (but not lazy). Most jobs prioritize balance, and locals take leisure seriously. You’ll learn how to work hard without burning out.
  • You can live well on less. While tourist prices can be steep, day-to-day life can be surprisingly affordable, especially outside the big cities.
  • Nature is part of your routine. Weekends (and even lunch breaks) often involve waterfalls, hikes, or just chilling at the beach. You don’t have to wait for vacation to enjoy where you are.

Things to know

Working in Costa Rica is doable for foreigners, but there are some real-world logistics you’ll want to get clear on before you commit.

  • Salary - Wages are modest. Teachers earn around $500–$800/month. Tourism jobs range from $200–$2,000 depending on experience. Environmental roles are often unpaid unless you have specialized skills.
  • Cost of living - Expect to spend $300–$800 on rent, $150–$200 on groceries, and about $5–$10 per meal. Local “sodas” serve great food for under $3. Budget carefully, especially in tourist areas.
  • Currency - The colón is the local currency, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted. Use colones for buses, small shops, and local spots to get better prices.
  • Tipping - A 10% service charge is usually added to restaurant bills. Extra tipping isn’t required, but a small amount for great service or guides is appreciated.

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Latest Program Reviews

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December 11, 2025by: Darshini Ramjeet - MauritiusProgram: Reception, Cooking & Housekeeping Volunteer Positions
8

Hello. I am currently working as support teacher in the ministry of education however I'm looking for another job with better prospects. Please contact me if there are any jobs positions that meet my requirements. Hope to hear positively from you.

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