Kazakhstan, the biggest country in the world without access to the sea, is becoming a popular place for foreign workers looking for new jobs. There are many job opportunities for foreigners, especially in teaching, oil and gas, technology, and engineering. This article will discuss the different jobs available for foreigners in Kazakhstan, including teaching, and explain the programmes that hire foreign teachers.
1.Kazakhstan’s Economy and Job Market
Kazakhstan is the economic powerhouse of Central Asia, largely due to its vast natural resources. The country is one of the world’s largest producers of oil and gas, and this industry plays a central role in the economy. In addition to the energy sector, Kazakhstan is expanding in areas such as technology, agriculture, construction, and finance. These developments have created ample job opportunities for foreign workers in various sectors, from entry-level to highly specialised positions.
While the job market can be competitive, there is still a demand for skilled foreign professionals, especially in roles that require technical expertise, teaching experience, and proficiency in foreign languages. Kazakhstan’s government has also introduced several initiatives to attract foreign talent, including programmes that aim to recruit teachers to support the growing educational needs of the country.
2. Types of Jobs Available to Foreigners in Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan offers a wide array of employment options for foreigners. Here are some of the key industries where foreign workers can find opportunities:
a. Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)
The demand for English teachers is one of the most prominent opportunities for foreigners in Kazakhstan. As the country modernises and seeks to integrate more into the global economy, English language skills have become increasingly important. English teachers are sought in various educational settings, including public schools, private language centres, and universities.
- Private Language Schools: These institutions, which can be found in major cities like Almaty and Astana (now Nur-Sultan), are always looking for qualified English teachers. Foreign teachers are generally required to hold a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL/TESOL certification, although experience in teaching can often be a substitute for these qualifications.
- Public Schools: The government is keen to improve the quality of education, and as part of this initiative, they have encouraged the hiring of native English speakers to teach in public schools. Teachers in public schools generally need a teaching qualification in addition to their degree and TEFL certification.
- Universities: Many universities in Kazakhstan offer English language courses to students majoring in fields such as business, technology, and international relations. These institutions may hire foreign professors or lecturers with specialisations in English or other academic subjects.
b. Oil, Gas, and Mining
Kazakhstan is a leading producer of oil and natural gas, and foreign professionals with expertise in the energy sector are highly sought after. Many international companies operate in Kazakhstan, and they often look for foreign workers in various roles, such as:
- Engineers: Mechanical, electrical, and petroleum engineers are in demand to help maintain and expand the country’s oil and gas infrastructure.
- Project Managers: With the development of new oil and gas fields, project management roles are available for foreign workers with experience in large-scale operations.
- Health and Safety Experts: Given the potentially hazardous nature of oil and gas extraction, professionals with health and safety expertise are required to ensure workplace safety.
These roles often come with high salaries, particularly for those with extensive experience and specialisation.
c. Information Technology (IT) and Tech Start-ups
Kazakhstan’s rapidly growing technology sector provides numerous opportunities for foreign workers. The government has been making strides to support tech start-ups, and there is a strong demand for skilled professionals in fields such as:
- Software Development: Programmers and developers, particularly those skilled in languages such as Java, Python, and C++, are sought after by tech companies.
- Cybersecurity: As businesses increasingly shift to online operations, cybersecurity experts are in high demand to protect sensitive information from cyber threats.
- Data Analysts: With the growing amount of data generated by businesses, data scientists and analysts are essential to helping companies extract valuable insights.
Foreign workers with experience in software engineering, IT project management, and data science can expect competitive salaries in this growing sector.
d. Finance and Banking
Kazakhstan’s financial sector is one of the most developed in Central Asia, and foreign workers with expertise in banking, investment, and financial management can find high-paying roles in the country. Foreign workers are often hired in positions such as:
- Financial Analysts: These professionals assess market conditions and make recommendations to businesses and investment firms.
- Risk Managers: Risk management professionals are needed to evaluate and mitigate the financial risks that businesses face, particularly in industries like oil and gas.
- Investment Bankers: As the country develops its infrastructure and economy, there is a need for skilled investment bankers to support large-scale projects and international deals.
e. Agriculture and Farming
Agriculture plays a significant role in Kazakhstan’s economy, particularly in the production of wheat, livestock, and other grains. Foreign agricultural experts with experience in crop management, farming techniques, and agricultural technology can find opportunities to work with both private and state-owned farms. These roles may include positions such as:
- Agricultural Consultants: Professionals who advise local farmers on the most efficient and sustainable farming practices.
- Farm Managers: Individuals who manage the daily operations of large farms, ensuring productivity and profitability.
3. Teaching Programmes for Foreign Teachers in Kazakhstan
Several programmes in Kazakhstan are designed to attract foreign teachers, particularly in the field of English language teaching. These programmes offer an excellent opportunity for teachers to experience life in Kazakhstan while gaining valuable professional experience.
a. The Bolashak Scholarship Programme
One of the most prestigious programmes in Kazakhstan, the Bolashak Scholarship, is a government initiative that sends Kazakh students abroad for higher education. While the programme primarily focuses on sending Kazakh students abroad, it also facilitates foreign teachers to come to Kazakhstan to support the development of education in the country. As part of this initiative, teachers may be offered opportunities to teach English at various educational institutions.
b. The English Teaching Assistant Programme
Kazakhstan has signed agreements with several countries, including the United States, to bring English Teaching Assistants (ETAs) to schools across the country. These teachers work alongside local staff to improve the quality of English education. ETAs typically have opportunities to work in public schools or universities, and the programme often provides benefits such as accommodation, a stipend, and health insurance.
c. Private Language Schools
Private language schools in Kazakhstan, such as Wall Street English and English First, regularly recruit foreign teachers. These schools offer attractive packages that include a salary, accommodation, and sometimes airfare reimbursement. Teachers are typically required to work 20-25 hours per week, and their roles often involve teaching adults and business professionals, in addition to children and teens.
4. Salaries and Benefits for Foreign Workers in Kazakhstan today
Salaries in Kazakhstan can vary greatly depending on the industry, location, and experience of the worker. Below are some general salary expectations in US dollars:
- English Teachers: $800 – $1,500 per month, depending on qualifications and the type of institution.
- Oil and Gas Engineers: $3,000 – $8,000 per month, depending on experience and role.
- IT Professionals: $2,500 – $6,000 per month for experienced developers and software engineers.
- Financial Analysts: $2,500 – $5,000 per month.
- Agricultural Experts: $1,500 – $3,000 per month, depending on the role.
In addition to these salaries, many foreign workers receive additional benefits such as accommodation, health insurance, and paid leave, making Kazakhstan an attractive destination for expatriates.
Kazakhstan offers numerous opportunities for foreign workers, especially in teaching, oil and gas, technology, finance, and agriculture. With competitive salaries, a growing economy, and a rich cultural heritage, Kazakhstan has become an appealing destination for individuals seeking to work abroad. Teaching programmes, such as the Bolashak Scholarship and the English Teaching Assistant Programme, provide excellent opportunities for foreign teachers to live and work in Kazakhstan. By exploring the available job options and programmes, foreign workers can find a rewarding career path in this diverse and rapidly developing country.
