Guatemala, known for its rich Mayan heritage, lush landscapes, and warm-hearted people, is an increasingly popular destination for expatriates and digital nomads. From the colonial city of Antigua to the picturesque shores of Lake Atitlán, many foreigners are drawn to its beauty and affordable cost of living. For those interested in working abroad, Guatemala offers a range of opportunities, particularly in the education sector, NGOs, tourism, and remote work.
Whether you’re planning a short-term adventure or considering a long-term stay, this detailed article will explore the types of jobs available to foreigners, with a focus on TEFL positions, highlight key programmes that recruit foreign educators, and point you towards the best platforms for finding jobs in Guatemala.
Types of Jobs Available to Foreigners in Guatemala
Guatemala has a relatively small formal job market, but there are still plenty of roles for foreigners, particularly in sectors that value international perspectives, language skills, or niche expertise.
1. TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language)
One of the most accessible and popular job options for foreigners is teaching English. The demand for English teachers is high, particularly in urban centres and tourist hotspots like Antigua, Guatemala City, and Quetzaltenango (Xela).
- Private Language Schools: Institutions such as Centro de Estudios de Español Pop Wuj and IXCHEL Spanish School hire native or fluent English speakers to teach local students or professionals looking to improve their business English.
- Bilingual Schools and Academies: Schools like Colegio Interamericano and American School of Guatemalaoffer more structured teaching positions and typically follow an American or international curriculum.
- Volunteer-Based English Programmes: Although many volunteer programmes offer room and board instead of a salary, they can be an excellent way to gain experience. Organisations like Maya Volunteers, Safe Passage, and Open Windows Foundation often seek English teachers.
- Online English Teaching: Some expats opt to teach English online while living in Guatemala. Platforms like VIPKid, Cambly, and Preply allow for flexible schedules and remote income generation.
Salary Expectation: English teachers can expect to earn between $500 to $1,000 USD per month, depending on the institution and level of experience. Online teaching salaries vary widely but generally range between $10 to $25 USD per hour.
2. NGO and Non-Profit Work
Guatemala has a significant presence of non-profit organisations working in areas such as education, public health, community development, and indigenous rights. Many of these organisations rely on the expertise of foreign volunteers and staff.
- Common Sectors: NGOs often require programme coordinators, grant writers, medical professionals, community outreach specialists, and administrative support.
- Examples of NGOs:
- Mercado Global – focuses on women’s empowerment through fair trade.
- WINGS Guatemala – provides reproductive health education and services.
- Education and Hope – offers educational support in Quetzaltenango.
Many of these roles are volunteer-based or come with modest stipends, although more senior positions may offer competitive salaries.
Salary Expectation: Paid positions in NGOs may range from $600 to $1,500 USD per month, with accommodation sometimes included.
3. Tourism and Hospitality
Guatemala’s tourism industry is a vibrant sector where foreigners with language skills, particularly English and Spanish, can find work.
- Tour Guides: Certified or experienced guides fluent in multiple languages are highly sought after, especially in places like Tikal, Lake Atitlán, and Antigua.
- Hostel and Hotel Staff: Management roles in boutique hotels or volunteer opportunities in hostels are often open to foreigners.
- Travel Agencies: Bilingual travel coordinators and marketing experts are sometimes hired by local travel agencies catering to foreign tourists.
Salary Expectation: Salaries in tourism vary greatly, with roles in luxury resorts or tour companies offering between $500 to $1,200 USD per month. Commission-based structures are common.
4. Digital Nomad and Remote Work Opportunities
Thanks to Guatemala’s relatively affordable cost of living and growing number of coworking spaces, it has become a haven for digital nomads.
- Freelancers working in graphic design, writing, software development, and marketing often base themselves in cities like Antigua or Xela.
- Remote Employment: If you already work for a company that allows remote work, Guatemala offers a picturesque and cost-effective place to live and work.
While this path doesn’t technically involve working for a Guatemalan employer, it is one of the most sustainable ways for foreigners to live in the country.
TEFL Programmes and Opportunities for Foreign Teachers in Guatemala
Several organisations and institutions run programmes that specifically bring foreign English teachers into Guatemala, either as volunteers or paid staff. These programmes are well-established and provide valuable support in navigating visas, housing, and cultural integration.
1. WorldTeach (Discontinued, but Alternatives Exist)
WorldTeach used to be a prominent programme in Guatemala but ceased operations. However, other programmes have taken its place:
2. Maximo Nivel
Maximo Nivel offers TEFL certification and job placement assistance in Guatemala. It’s based in Antigua and partners with local schools to place teachers in both volunteer and paid roles.
- What’s included: TEFL certification, job placement support, accommodation options, and cultural orientation.
- Best for: Beginners looking to start their teaching career abroad.
3. International TEFL Academy
The International TEFL Academy (ITA) offers online and in-person TEFL courses, and they provide a job board and personalised assistance for finding placements in Guatemala.
4. Projects Abroad
This programme places volunteers in English teaching roles in Guatemala, usually in schools or community centres. It’s ideal for short-term commitments but may not offer a salary.
Job Search Platforms and Resources
Whether you’re looking for teaching jobs, NGO roles, or freelance gigs, there are numerous platforms that list job opportunities for foreigners in Guatemala.
1. Online Job Boards
- GoAbroad.com: Features a wide range of international jobs and volunteering opportunities in Guatemala.
- Idealist.org: Excellent for NGO and non-profit roles.
- Dave’s ESL Café: Popular among TEFL job seekers.
- ESL Job Feed: Lists English teaching jobs worldwide, including Guatemala.
- TeachAway and Footprints Recruiting: Larger platforms that occasionally have openings in Central America.
2. Facebook Groups
Several expat groups on Facebook frequently share job listings:
- Expats in Guatemala
- Jobs in Guatemala
- Teachers in Guatemala
These communities are also useful for networking and receiving real-time advice.
3. Local Language Schools
Many English teaching jobs are not advertised online. Walk-ins or directly contacting schools such as:
- Antigua International School
- IXCHEL Spanish School
- Bridge Academy Guatemala can yield surprising results.
4. Coworking Spaces
In cities like Antigua, coworking hubs like Impact Hub and Selina offer networking opportunities and bulletin boards where remote work and collaboration opportunities are posted.
Work Permits and Visa Requirements
Foreigners technically need a work permit to be employed legally in Guatemala, but in practice, many work informally or on tourist visas, particularly in the TEFL and volunteer sectors. Employers often don’t sponsor work permits unless it’s for high-level or formal roles in international schools or NGOs.
If you’re planning a long-term stay or seeking formal employment, it’s best to consult a local immigration lawyer or your prospective employer about work visa requirements.
Final Tips for Working in Guatemala
- Learn Spanish: While not always required, speaking Spanish is a huge advantage, especially outside major tourist centres.
- Be Adaptable: Guatemala operates at a different pace than many Western countries. Patience and flexibility are essential.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Guatemala has a diverse population with strong indigenous roots. Being respectful and culturally aware will go a long way.
- Safety and Health: While many areas are safe, always stay informed about the local situation, particularly in Guatemala City.
Finding work in Guatemala as a foreigner is entirely possible, especially if you are open to a range of opportunities, from TEFL and NGO roles to tourism and remote work. The job market may not be as structured as in more developed countries, but with the right approach, cultural curiosity, and adaptability, Guatemala can offer a truly enriching professional and personal experience.
Whether you’re teaching English in a vibrant classroom in Xela, helping with a community development project in the highlands, or running your online business from a coffee shop in Antigua, Guatemala has something unique to offer every traveller turned worker.
