Getting a job in Panama as an expat is difficult, but entirely worth it. If you can’t find a job in Panama that suits you, you can always join other expats by starting your own business in Panama too!
Foreign Affairs is a big industry in Panama, especially since it is one of the largest trade hubs in the world. Working for the Department of State as a US diplomat is just one job opportunity that allows foreigners to work in Panama and delve into foreign policy issues. Working in foreign diplomacy will introduce you to the global society that exists in Panama, which will help develop your perspective of foreign affairs across the world.
Tourism. Working as a trip leader for high school programs and tours for groups of tourists is another interesting way to work in Panama, especially for those with an interest in cultural exchange and ecotourism. Tourism jobs in Panama are also a great way to get to know the country (and maybe even get paid to go sightseeing!). Proficiency in Spanish is often required to work in Panama as a tour guide, and leadership skills are mandatory, obviously. Tourism jobs in Panama will give you the opportunity to share the culture of Panama with other travelers and expats, giving you an even stronger cultural understanding of the country too.
Teaching English is another popular endeavor for those who have a desire to work in Panama. While a TEFL/TESOL certification is essential in order to get a job teaching English in Panama, it will be well worth the commitment. For the most part, teaching jobs in Panama will give international teachers the opportunity to teach children or young adults. While the certification is often required, teaching experience is often not.
Hours of work in Panama varies between jobs, since each job is structured quite differently. For example, tour guides or trip leaders often stay with a group throughout the duration of their stay, so they would essentially be working for the entire time the group is in-country. However, other traditional office jobs in Panama will require you to work the standard Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. schedule.
The business world in Panama is much more relaxed than what exists in the United States; it is more similar to other countries in Central America. Businesses in Panama also focus on forming close relationships within the office to make the workplace an even more enjoyable environment, which leads to the office being more informal. While work may be more relaxed environment, punctuality is still extremely important for any job in Panama.
