Jobs in Barcelona, Spain

Filter Results

Featured Provider of the Month
with International TEFL Academy
10 Jobs in Barcelona, Spain
International TEFL Academy
0
0
Want to get paid to live abroad in Spain? Take ITA's accredited four-week TEFL class in Barcelona and receive lifetime job search guidance for professional teaching jobs in Spain & in 80 countries worldwide. International TEFL Academy offers TEFL classes in Spain (Barcelona & Madrid), online, and
See All 2 ProgramsInstituto Hemingway
4.89
9
Our Paid Jobs program guarantees a placement in a top restaurant/hotel in Spain. Accommodation, meals and pocket money are covered. You will earn enough to cover basic expenses. PRICE: * Euros 400, USD 471 GBP 273 (1-2 months) * Euros 500 USD 590 GBP 341 (3-4 months) * Euros 900 USD 1061
See All 2 ProgramsTravel For Teens
4
1
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,
Spanish Gap Year
0
0
Our program in Barcelona offers students and young professionals meaningful international experience in one of Europe’s most dynamic cities. It is designed to strengthen CVs, explore career pathways, improve Spanish, and immerse participants in authentic life in Spain while contributing to real orga
Jobs And Internships Abroad
4
2
Grab this chance to strengthen your résumé with professional experience in an international setting! Working in Spain presents more than a job. You will reap plenty of benefits, from experiencing authentic Spanish culture to having plenty of time to explore world-renowned places. Spain is a great d
Servihogar - Au Pair Agency in Spain
0
0
Immerse yourself in a cultural exchange and immersion program in Spain! Placements are available in beautiful locations – Madrid, Sevilla, Barcelona, Jerez, and Malaga. You'll work as an au pair and become exposed to the Spanish language and customs at the ground level from day one. Plus, you won't
Abbey Road Programs
0
0
We continually screen candidates for all positions: Instructors, Program Directors, Program Coordinators, and RAs. Our summer faculty and staff are typically outstanding high school teachers, university instructors, graduate students, and highly qualified college graduates. It is important that thos
TEFL Heaven
4.67
3
Take this opportunity to teach abroad and immerse yourself in a vibrant cosmopolitan capital! We provide a guaranteed job placement at one of our trusted partner schools, with a salary ranging from $965 to $1930. Receive extensive support before your departure and benefit from round-the-clock assi
A Guide to Working Abroad in Barcelona
Jobs Abroad in Barcelona
As the second-largest city in Spain, Barcelona’s range of industries and job opportunities is extensive. Working as an au pair in Barcelona is an ideal way to experience Spanish culture authentically, as you will be living, eating, and going about your day to day activities along with a local host family. Au pairs are required to provide child care, light housework, and sometimes English lessons for a local family for around 25 hours per week, in return for accommodation (and sometimes additional benefits such as meals or a small stipend).
As a popular European tourist destination, the hospitality industry in Barcelona is thriving. Since certain seasons mean more tourists, tourism job opportunities in Barcelona may be temporary or short term, but very open to international workers. It is possible for foreigners to work in Barcelona as hotel front desk attendants, housekeepers, waiters, bartenders, and cooks. Hospitality jobs in Barcelona may require a commitment to night and/or weekend work, but this offers flexibility that rigid desk jobs do not.
Marketing and public relations jobs in Barcelona are also offered for the business savvy! Foreign workers can build their professional portfolio by engaging in an international marketplace and developing communication skills that are highly-valued in any location. Newly developed skills will be transferable, so when you return from working abroad employees will find your exposure to other cultures attractive, especially if they have ambitions to expand internationally or offices in multiple countries.
Many jobs in Barcelona accept sole English-speakers, but speaking Spanish or Catalán (especially fluently!) is a huge way to stand out among other international applicants. Unemployment rates are on the rise, which increases competition for jobs in Barcelona, since there are a larger number of local candidates. Do your best to use any bilingual skills. professional experience, and simply your status as an international worker as an attractive selling point when applying for jobs in Barcelona.
Life in Barcelona
Foreign workers may need some time to adjust to the laid-back nature of Barcelona, and Spain in general. It is not rare for shops and stores to take a siesta, which means staying closed from one to four o’clock. Additionally, dinnertime may not be until nine or ten o’clock. Local people then take time to enjoy the nightlife, only returning in the early hours of the morning.
While siesta may become a normal part of your routine, don’t sleep all your time away! Enjoy the many sights, events, and experiences while working abroad in Barcelona. Those interested in architecture will revel in the beauty of Gaudi’s structures across the city. Looking for a more restful activity? Spend a day off work at the beach sipping Cava (a.k.a. Spanish Champagne), the national drink of Catalonia. Sports fanatics must catch a FC Barcelona game at world Camp Nou.
Day to day, workers will find that walking or public transportation are the best options for getting to work or out and about around the city. The reliable metro system is easy to navigate if you wish to stay off your feet though, or have a longer commute.
Foreigners should be aware that Barcelona is the capital of the autonomous community of Catalonia. Catalán is its own language, and Catalans take their national identity quite seriously. Be respectful of this cultural heritage while working in Barcelona, and you will not run into any issues!
Salary & Affordability
Salaries for jobs in Barcelona are lower than much of Northern Europe. Americans will also find that there are comparable job opportunities in the U.S., but may pay more than what they’re accustomed to. For this reason, individuals may find that au pair jobs actually have quite significant benefits, such as free room and board, including three meals a day, and a stipend.
Locals estimate that living on $1,000 is roughly what it takes to get by. Greater than this and you will be more than comfortable financially. Most positions for foreign workers in Barcelona, however, will pay around $300.
To keep costs down, most international employees share housing and attempt to live frugally. Some international workers may choose to walk instead of paying for transportation, for example. It is also always a good idea to eat and live as the locals do as much as possible. Typically, foreign products must be imported at a heavy cost, so this is reflected in the prices of imported goods. Locally produced food, clothing, and other goods will be much more cheap, and buying them will contribute to a more authentic experience of Barcelona and Spanish life.
Accommodation & Visas
Homestays are a very popular option for international workers in Barcelona. Those who are learning or who would like to learn Spanish should especially opt for living with a homestay, since this type of organic immersion is an incredible way to improve language skills.
Apartments are an even more common accommodation arrangement in Barcelona, and will be more comfortable for individuals who prefer more independence and down-time. However, this option can also be quite expensive, so consider living with at least one roommate.
Citizens of EU countries are free to travel and work in Barcelona the same as any Spanish citizen. Applying for visas to work in Spain as a non-EU citizen can be difficult though. A visa is required for these individuals to enter Spain, and an additional permit is required if you plan to obtain employment and work in Spain. When a job contract is confirmed, the employer is responsible for securing necessary paperwork for the work permit, however. Then, the employee is accountable for procuring the entry visa. Visa restrictions and guidelines are constantly changing, so be sure to do your research and plan early to avoid last-minute crises.
Benefits & Challenges
Laid-back Living. There’s not much room to complain when your schedule is comprised of an afternoon siesta and weekends lying on the beach. Foreigners should embrace the relaxed lifestyle and they will come to find the perfect balance between work and free time. While your employment should be your main priority, enjoy every opportunity to experience Barcelona as the locals do.
High Unemployment. Barcelona was hit hard by the global economic crisis. As a result, the unemployment rate is high, and the supply of local employees outweighs the demand. This makes for a competitive job market for international job seekers. However, there are certain positions that are geared specifically toward international workers, and if you are willing to accept lower wages, you may find that the cultural experience you gain in exchange for less pay is more valuable than any paycheck.
Latest Program Reviews
Haiti calido
October 14, 2025by: Raul enrique Higuerey Montes - VenezuelaHola, estuve en haiti por 5años, fue un experiencia muy buena muy nutritiva de muchos conocimientos y aprendizajes, muchas cosas nuevas, el idioma lo aprendí en 6 meses, su gente muy calidad, volvería a estar con ellos.
This is most beautiful place in the whole
June 21, 2023by: Fatumata Touray - United KingdomI went to Sweden and Africa in the last few months. I remember going to Sweden and I was just so amazed how beautiful the country was and I went on so much adventures with my family and I got to see the place that my dad used grow up in when he was a little child, little kid. I went to Africa and I was my first time ever going there because I had so many stories about how beautiful it is. My mum always told me that she always loved Africa and it was always a pity a piece of her every time she goes there and sees how much she loves the country. So when I went to Sweden and Africa, I got the same feeling that my dad and my mum got when they went to their home countries and I felt like I wanted to do something like this as well. :-) He he
Work experience in real Spain!
December 02, 2022by: Sandra Rajatowsky - United KingdomEverything was really lovely. I had a great time. Really good teachers and the general atmosphere was great. I would recommend. I didn't know much before I went but was recommended by a friend. Great place and area. First I took some weeks of Spanish courses in Bilbao and then I went to a hotel to work there. The application with you was very easy and I was happy that you helped me with all my questions and arranged the interview. This made the process very easy. Also Jose was always quick in replying and helping me. The internship tasks were very accurate to my studies and even exceeded my expectations. They varied and were explained very well. So I was happy with the internship and it helped me a lot with getting an impression of the daily life in this business. The conditions given by the company were good. They provided me everything promised. The colleagues are very nice and the relation between the coworkers is very important in this company. This makes the stay a very pleasant one. So in conclusion I was very satisfied with the chosen internship. It was interesting to learn new things and I was happy in the workspace.
I loved my internship in the hotel!
June 12, 2019by: Louis Clinton - United KingdomGreat team and work environment, solid learning skills, one of the best internships in the market. Getting the chance to do internship in 2015 at a 4 star hotel I gained experience of the best techniques. This type of internship fit very well with my professional career expectations and has inspired me to keep involved in the Hospitality Distribution Industry. Challenge the established order of hotels has made me be even more motivated to pursue a career where you can make things happen.
Super experience learning and working
June 09, 2019by: Sean May - United StatesI found the process with Instituto Hemingway very easy. The website is simple and helpful. I was recommended to take at least a couple of weeks of Spanish courses before going to the internship at a top hotel and this is what I did. I found it really helpful not only to improve my Spanish but also to get used to new way of life. The internship I made in Spain was matching my expectations. The tasks were as announced in the interview, which was a brand new experience for me. Few things were not mentioned during the interview, as the fact that the hotel was a 4 star hotel close to beach. As it was announced on the application and during the interview, the hours and work per week and the wage were tough. I worked 40 hours/week and the wage was 200€/month, which I found consequent for this kind of internship, demanding a lot of energy and responsibilities. Despite all that, I made my best and concentrated all my energy and determination on this internship. My colleagues were nice people who welcomed me very well. My general experience was intense; it was very interesting to discover a new environment of work, and I liked to work at the hotel. I really wanted to discover the bartending area, and I discovered a new environment, where I learned a lot. Moreover, working with people from all over the world was great, that was what I wanted, so I'm very happy with this experience.
A lovely time in Spain learning and working
April 21, 2019by: Sandra Fortuny - United StatesProgram: Jobs in Spas and Resorts in Spain
Instituto Hemingway was truly a great help. It's a group of great professionals who helped me in everything I needed, always giving the information that I requested. Without them, I could not have found the company that I did an internship in. I really liked to do an internship in the company. All members of the company were very welcoming and friendly. About my internship, it was and it is the best thing in my life. I really really enjoyed it. It was something different but people made it super nice and easy for me. They were supporting, caring and nice and they taught me a lot of things at the same time. But I need to be honest, in the beginning, it was hard. I didn't expect to work like that, I am talking about split shifts every day because I was told that I would do that occasionally but it was every day actually. But in the end, it all worked out because if I knew that before I wouldn't go. In my opinion, this is an amazing opportunity for young people to try something new, learn different stuff and meet beautiful people. I can definitely say that I met people for life. They were my family all time long and I can not thank them enough for everything they did for me. In the end, all I can say is that I am already looking for another internship
I enjoyed so much working and living in Spain!
March 06, 2019by: Maria Strada - AustriaProgram: Jobs in Spas and Resorts in Spain
I came to Spain to do an internship where in a hotel in Northern Spain. The placement is in is a really beautiful place and it was great to live by the beach as the weather there was amazing. I worked as a receptionist in the hotel there and I really enjoyed it and gained a lot of experience. First of all a big thanks to Instituto Hemingway for organising this internship for me. The whole process was very simple. Regarding the internship it was all mostly a positive experience. I feel like I learned a lot at my time with the company.
Staying in Spain at the best prices!
February 15, 2019by: Lars Blandy - GermanyI was extremely lucky to complete an internship in Spain this year. I met so many amazing people and had the best support from Instituto Hemingway! I loved the combination of social events with the other interns while taking Spanish courses and the internship itself after the first weeks previous to the internship. I quickly found myself feeling at home in Spain and made friends for life! It allowed me to grow as a person and develop my professional experience. I was also applying for jobs at the time and I was successful in gaining a position the day after returning home! I have no regrets and wish I could do it all over again! I would recommend this program to anyone who wants to travel and gain professional experience at the same time! This experience has made me realise anything is possible and to make the most of any opportunity that comes your way.
Working and learning Spanish
February 15, 2019by: John Power - United StatesDefinitely a 5-star rating for Instituto Hemingway. I am currently a third-year under-graduated student from tourism and they helped me with searching for an internship at top hotel. It was the time of my life in a beautiful city. Before that, I had to take some weeks of Spanish courses with Instituto Hemingway. I really felt supported during the whole process. Even though there is a lot to do to get a job abroad as a student and I am pretty sure they work with a lot of us the turnaround time has been always quick from the beginning until now. Now I can say that I enjoyed real Spain, got fluent in Spanish and had a wonderful time,
Excellent customer service
February 15, 2019by: Salem Farah - QatarMr Jose, you helped me SO MUCH. the staff at Instituto Hemingway are so helpful you will get such help and hospitality nowhere else in the world. They are proactive and work extremely hard for you in order to help you find an internship that suits. Mr Jose at Hemingway spent a whole day helping me and trying to get an interview for me in a matter of a day which was very difficult and even then he kept in contact to give me tips on how to score the interview. the staff act like family to you, extremely helpful and understanding. LOVE THE COMPANY SERVICE! Thank you Mr Jose. It felt like they were a company right here in my city. I highly recommend this company when looking for an internship abroad. They will not disappoint!!
Great gap year choice
February 15, 2019by: Francis Matthew - United StatesHello, My name is Francis Mathew I have recently returned from my 3 month program in Spain. It was the most amazing experience I could have asked for. No matter what issues occurred or arised the issue was addressed and resolved in an instant. They couldn’t have made the very daunting challenge of moving overseas any easier. They also ensure you experience every part of the culture. I was able to make life long friends and experience interning in my field while also finding a second home in Spain. This program also brought to light the beauty in traveling. No matter where I was in Europe I knew I could always call anyone from Instituto Hemingway and they’d assist the best the can. Working in country was also seamless for me. A big concern of mine was transportation and they made It very easy to understand and allowed us to situate ourselves with a walking tour the second day we were there. I would recommend to anyone and everyone. Thanks Instituto Hemingway
The best year ever
January 11, 2019by: Mark Krueger - GermanyProgram: Numerous Job Opportunities in Spain
You guys found me the best job I could imagine. I worked at front desk in a super 5 star hotel in Tenerife. I learned a lot and met amazing people, enjoyed the weather and the party. I miss it. I will probably go back there.
Working in Spain
December 12, 2018by: Ashley Peacock - AustraliaProgram: Numerous Job Opportunities in Spain
I was very hesitant at first to move and work in a hotels. But everyone is very helpful with providing information about working in Spain, money is okay but you can still save which is a good thing. You get food from the accommodation/hotel you are staying in and the work is fun! Such a good time working in Spain!
Learning Spanish while working was a great experience
July 22, 2018by: Donald Rivera - United KingdomProgram: Jobs in Spas and Resorts in Spain
My experience with Instituto Hemingway was absolutely amazing. I got so much out of it. From improving my Spanish to traveling all over Spain, it was definitely the best 3 months of my life. I met so many amazing people, some who will be friends for life. I highly recommend taking the 3-4 weeks taking Spanish courses before going to work to a hotel.
Hospitality management in Spain
February 04, 2018by: Dena West - CanadaI learned a lot about Spanish culture and food. I also got to travel to places I have always wanted to visit and have studied in the past. This was a great company, family feeling. This was a fun position to work as you meet new people every day from all over the world. Property was in great shape, management needed to make changes and did so to better serve guests. Great experience. property was restructuring the management levels which caused a little stress among staff but it was needed
Latest Interviews

Emma Raymond
InterExchange
As a child, I traveled a bit with my family from living in The Netherlands to visiting family in Greece. As I got older, I loved it more and more and ...

Thaly Zollinger
Smaller Earth
I had never been to Europe before I became an au pair in Madrid, but I thought this was a great, affordable way to travel and live abroad while truly ...

Tristyn Naile
(DEAD URL) SPI Study Abroad
I chose to study abroad because I was looking for an experience that would help me strengthen my Spanish speaking skills and immerse me in the culture...
Popular Searches
Apply for Scholarships & Deals
Submit a single application on MyGoAbroad to get exclusive discounts on travel programs!

Travel Tools
Recent Jobs Abroad Articles






















