Ever thought of exploring career opportunities abroad after your graduation? Well, for international students in France, you’ll be glad to know that the country offers a wealth of work opportunities after graduation, making it an attractive destination for those looking to kickstart their careers abroad. The French job market is diverse, with positions available across various sectors, including technology, engineering, hospitality, luxury goods, and healthcare.
However, to work in France, ensure that you meet all the set conditions like having the necessary visa and relevant academic qualifications. With that in mind, let us look at some of the in-demand job opportunities in France after graduation.
In-Demand Job Opportunities in France
1. Software Developers and Engineers
- Salary Range: €6,000/month
The demand for software developers is high in France, especially in cities like Paris, Lyon, and Toulouse, driven by the growth of tech startups and digital transformation across industries. It is one of the highest-paying jobs in France, with an average monthly salary of €6,000. This could be lower depending on your experience and skill level, with top managers earning around €7,700.
To be successful in this role, you need to have at least a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related program and the necessary programming language skills like Java, Python, C++, and JavaScript. Some of the top tech startups in France to check out include Mistral AI, PayFit, and Iziwork.
2. Doctors
- Salary Range: €4,130/month
France has a strong healthcare system, and the demand for medical professionals, especially doctors and nurses, is high due to an aging population and healthcare workforce shortages. While the average monthly salary is €4,130, an experienced doctor in France can earn over €5,000 including allowances. The pay for doctors also varies with doctors working in private hospitals earning more than those in public hospitals.
To become a doctor in France, you have to meet certain criteria like being proficient in French, having a relevant academic degree, passing the necessary medical exams, acquiring your medical license, and obtaining a work visa.
3. Aerospace Engineers
- Salary Range: €3,450/month
France is home to some of the world’s largest aerospace companies, including Airbus and Dassault, creating demand for engineers in fields such as aerodynamics, aircraft design, and materials science. While the average monthly salary for aerospace engineers is around €3,450, you can earn more depending on your experience, location, and the school where you obtained your engineering degree.
According to ECE Paris, graduates from École Polytechnique can expect to earn around €4,900 per month while those from École centrale – Lyon €3,450. You can research various engineering schools in France to explore your study options.
4. English Teachers
- Salary Range: €2,000/month
As globalization increases, there is a significant demand for English teachers in France, especially in private language schools, businesses, and tutoring services. You will also find several teaching positions at international schools offering curricula such as IB (International Baccalaureate) or English-language programs.
Additionally, there are several English-taught programs in French institutions requiring professors who can teach in English for those international programs. To qualify as an English teacher, you need to have a relevant degree, especially in programs like linguistics, education, and English, though this may not be compulsory. Ensure you acquire relevant teaching certificates like TEFL, TESOL, CELTA, or DELTA to give you an advantage in your job search.
5. Hotel Managers
- Salary Range: €4,200/month
As one of the most visited countries in the world, France has a booming tourism industry. Hotel managers, especially those with international experience, are in demand in major tourist cities like Paris, Nice, Lyon, and Marseille. France is home to some of the world’s best hotels like the Four Seasons Hotel and the Cheval Blanc. Additionally, top schools like Vatel Hotel and Tourism Business School offer relevant programs to excel as a hotel manager.
With an average monthly salary of €4,200, it is one of the most lucrative careers in France with an opportunity to earn more depending on location and experience. For hotel management jobs, you can check out platforms like LinkedIn for available opportunities and requirements.
FAQs: Employment Opportunities in France
What Type of Visa is Needed for Employment Purposes in France?
The type of visa you need for employment in France depends on your nationality, the kind of work you will be doing, and your qualifications. Non-EU nationals typically need a long-stay work visa or specialized visas like the Talent Passport or EU Blue Card. For short-term jobs that take less than 3 months, a short-stay work visa is appropriate. Another interesting category of French work visas is the international talent visa offered for four years to international employees and self-employed professionals.
To apply for the work visa, you have to show proof of a signed job contract with a French employer, proof of your qualifications and professional experience, and a visa application submitted through the French consulate or embassy in your home country.
Where Can You Find a Job in France?
Finding a job in France as an international student or professional can be an exciting but challenging process, especially if you are unfamiliar with the job market. Luckily, there are several legit French platforms like 1jeune1solution and CIDJ which list job opportunities for graduates ranging from full-time and part-time to internships and seasonal work.
You can also utilize other globally known platforms like LinkedIn, checking university websites, leveraging networking and job fairs, and following up on the companies or organizations that offered you internship opportunities. Ensure you meet the minimum job requirements to boost your chances of securing a spot.
Work opportunities in France after graduation are abundant, especially for graduates in fields such as engineering, technology, healthcare, and hospitality. While some of the jobs will require you to master the French language and understand local work culture, the country remains an attractive destination for international graduates looking to build their careers.
We hope that you will find the above information useful even as you plan to start your career in France upon graduation. Learn more about France by visiting our Study in France and Open Courses sections!
