What Are The Most In-Demand Jobs In Spain?

Spain’s job market has shifted dramatically in the past decade, shaped by technology, demographics, and the country’s uneven economic recovery. For expats — whether you're arriving from within the EU or further afield — navigating work opportunities here can be challenging, but far from impossible. Understanding where the real demand lies is the first step.

Tech: Spain’s Fastest-Growing Sector

In cities like Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, and Málaga, the digital economy has taken root. These cities have attracted startups, international tech firms, and remote-first companies drawn by Spain’s lifestyle, infrastructure, and talent pool.

That means high demand for:

• Software developers
• Cloud architects
• UX designers
• Data analysts
• Cybersecurity professionals

English is the hiring language for many roles. Spanish helps, but it’s not always required. Relocation support is increasingly common due to the talent shortage.

Healthcare: Shortages Across the Country

Spain has one of the oldest populations in Europe, and the healthcare sector is under pressure. This creates strong demand for:

• Nurses
• Carers
• Physiotherapists
• Geriatric specialists

In rural areas, shortages are especially critical. EU citizens integrate more easily into the system, while non-EU applicants must complete homologación to recognise their qualifications — a slow but viable pathway.

Education: English Speakers Still Needed

Teaching remains a major entry route for expats:

• Private academies
• Bilingual schools
• Conversation assistant programmes
• International schools

Teachers with credentials (PGCE, STEM background, etc.) find the best salaries in international schools. Demand for online tutors is growing, especially in Madrid, Catalonia, and the Basque Country.

Tourism and Hospitality: A Constant Source of Jobs

Spain’s tourism sector has bounced back sharply. Employers across Andalusia, the Balearics, the Canaries, and major cities are hiring:

• Reception staff
• Kitchen and service staff
• Multilingual guest experience roles
• Tour guides

The work is often seasonal, but strong language skills can lead to management roles or careers in tourism-related fields such as property management and tour operations.

Trades: High Demand and Short Supply

Electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, builders, and tilers are in extremely high demand, especially in expat-heavy regions. Many earn well as autónomos (self-employed), often booked months in advance.

Top 20 Most In-Demand Jobs in Spain Right Now

• Backend Software Developer (Java, Python, Node.js)
• Solar Panel Installer / PV Technician
• Geriatric Nurse
• HVAC Technician
• Bilingual Customer Support Agent (German/Dutch especially)
• Full-Stack Web Developer
• Tour Guide (English + Spanish/French)
• Warehouse Logistics Coordinator
• English Teacher (TEFL + degree preferred)
• Project Manager (green energy, construction, IT)
• UX/UI Designer
• Carpenter / General Builder
• Waitstaff in Tourist Zones
• Data Analyst
• STEM Teacher
• Social Media Manager / Content Creator
• Mobile App Developer
• Remote Technical Support Specialist
• Electrician (EU certified)
• Sustainability Consultant

Multilingual Roles in Multinational Companies

Málaga, Barcelona, and Valencia are hubs for customer service centres serving all of Europe. Regularly hiring:

• German speakers
• Dutch speakers
• French speakers
• Nordic languages

These roles often come with relocation support and proper employment contracts.

Renewable Energy: One of Spain’s Fastest-Expanding Fields

EU funding and Spain’s climate have boosted solar and wind installations nationwide. In-demand roles include:

• Engineers
• Electricians
• Project managers
• Marketing specialists with sustainability experience

Regional Differences

• Madrid & Barcelona: Most corporate roles, higher competition.
• Málaga & Valencia: Strong digital hubs, large expat communities.
• Bilbao: Engineering and industrial roles.
• Rural regions: Trades, agriculture, healthcare.

Visa Pathways for Non-EU Job Seekers

Traditional work visas require an employer to sponsor you — difficult for many roles. Alternatives include:

• Digital Nomad Visa
• Non-Lucrative Visa

These allow legal residence even without a local job offer.

How to Find Jobs in Spain

• InfoJobs
• Milanuncios
• LinkedIn
• EuropeLanguageJobs

Networking remains essential — many jobs are never advertised.

Salaries and Working Conditions

Salaries may be lower than in the UK, US, or northern Europe, but cost of living and quality of life compensate for many expats. Full-time roles typically include healthcare, paid holidays, and pension contributions.

The Bottom Line

Spain can offer a work-life balance that’s hard to match — but success requires persistence, language learning, and knowing where demand truly exists.

Looking to Live and Work in Spain?

If you're planning to work here long-term, you’ll need private health insurance for most visa types. Our policies are fully compliant with Spanish immigration rules and ideal for expats.

See our health insurance plans for expats in Spain