Finding Employment In Brunei: A Comprehensive Guide

Brunei's wealthy economy, largely fuelled by its oil deposits, international relations and import/export system, makes it an attractive prospect for job seekers. The country's leaders are also seeking to increase the workforce and reduce unemployment by growing the banking and tourism sectors. With English as the preferred language of business, expats are likely to have a good chance of finding work in one of the many international industries. Online job portals, such as LinkedIn, are a great way to find work and build a social base, while Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is another option, given that English is a secondary working language in Brunei. The JobCentre Brunei (JCB) is a useful resource for local job seekers, offering services such as registration, job matching and walk-in interviews.

Job hunting online

Online Job Portals

• JobsBrunei.com: This website offers a wide range of job opportunities in various sectors, including food and beverage, education, IT, engineering, and more. The site provides job application guidance and allows you to manage your account and job applications efficiently.
• Bruneida.com: Bruneida.com is an online marketplace for jobs in Brunei, with thousands of ads for full-time and part-time positions. The site includes categories such as accounting, finance, banking, administration, IT, construction, and engineering.
• JobCentre Brunei: Operated by the government, JobCentre Brunei serves as a "One-Stop Career Center," offering services to both job seekers and private companies for local recruitment. They organize recruitment events, provide job matching services, and offer an online platform for job applications.

Social Media and Professional Networks

• LinkedIn: Building a presence on LinkedIn can be advantageous for job hunting in Brunei. It is a great way to connect with potential employers and professionals in your industry, showcasing your skills and experiences.
• Other Social Media: Don't underestimate the power of other social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Many companies in Brunei use these platforms to advertise job openings and connect with potential candidates.

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)

With English being widely used in Brunei, there are often opportunities for teaching English as a foreign language. Consider obtaining a TEFL certification, especially if you are a native speaker, as it can increase your chances of landing a teaching job.

Other Online Resources

• Brunei Work: Brunei Work is a website that advertises various job openings in the country, including positions in digital marketing, web development, finance, and more.
• International Job Portals: Expat and international job search portals can also be useful for finding work in Brunei. These sites cater specifically to individuals seeking employment abroad.

Remember to tailor your CV to each job application, highlighting relevant experiences and skills that make you an ideal candidate for the position. Stay proactive in your job search, and don't be afraid to reach out to companies or professionals in your network to increase your chances of finding the right opportunity.

English as a business language

English is widely used as a business language in Brunei, and it is spoken by a majority of the population. All official documents are reproduced in English, and it is used as the language of instruction from primary to tertiary education. English is also the language of the courts, although code-switching between English and Malay is common. While formal English in Brunei is based on British English, American English is having an increasing influence, and Brunei English is becoming distinct in its own right.

English is used as a working language in business, and proficiency in the language is, therefore, a valuable skill for anyone seeking employment in Brunei. A knowledge of English will also be beneficial when navigating the country's education and legal systems.

The ability to speak English will be particularly useful for anyone seeking employment in the fields of education, law, or business. For example, proficiency in English will be necessary for roles such as teachers or lecturers, lawyers or legal assistants, or business executives or managers. Additionally, many job roles in the tourism and hospitality sector will require English language skills, such as hotel managers, tour guides, or customer service roles.

English language skills will also be beneficial for anyone seeking to work in the media or communications industry in Brunei. For instance, roles such as journalists, editors, or broadcasters will require proficiency in English, as will roles in marketing, public relations, or advertising.

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)

Brunei offers a variety of opportunities for TEFL-certified individuals seeking to teach English as a foreign language. With its beautiful coastline, diverse rainforest, and rich culture, Brunei provides a unique setting for teaching and living abroad. Here are some key things to know about teaching English in Brunei:

Qualifications and Requirements:

• English proficiency: Most positions require native English proficiency or fluency in English.
• Education: A bachelor's degree is typically required, preferably in English, literature, humanities, or a related field. Some positions may require a degree in education or a specific teaching certification.
• Experience: A minimum of three years of relevant teaching experience is often expected, including at least one year of teaching ESL or EFL.
• Teaching license: An active teaching license from specific countries, such as the U.K., Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, or South Africa, is usually necessary.
• Age limit: Secondary teachers must be under 55, while primary teachers must be under 52 at the start of the contract.
• Other requirements: A valid driver's license and full vaccination against COVID-19 are typically required.

Salary and Benefits:

• Salary range: Salaries for teaching English in Brunei typically range from BND 42,000 to BND 77,000 per year, which is tax-free. The monthly salary is between BND 3,500 to BND 5,500 or BND 42,000 to BND 66,000, depending on the source.
• Benefits: Additional benefits may include a contract completion bonus, low living costs, provided accommodation, relocation support, and support for dependents' education at a reduced rate.

Work Culture and Environment:

• Work hours: Teachers typically teach 15 to 20 hours per week, with an additional 10 hours dedicated to after-school activities or sports coaching.
• Student demographics: Classes in international schools comprise a mix of Bruneian children and students from around the world.
• Work environment: Brunei's public schools are well-funded, and the country's education system is in a state of development, adapting to the changing needs of its citizens.
• Cultural considerations: Bruneians are known for their soft-spoken and polite mannerisms. As a Muslim country, alcohol and pork are not available, but you are allowed to bring your own alcohol for personal consumption.

Application Process and Timing:

• Application timing: Teaching jobs in Brunei typically have start dates throughout the year, but most recruiting is done from January to March for the following school year.
• Application process: Applicants usually apply from their home country and may undergo several phone or Skype interviews. The Ministry of Education will handle the visa application process once hired.
• Required documents: In addition to your CV, you will need a copy of your teaching license or certification, letters of recommendation, and possibly your college transcripts.

Popular Destinations:

• Bandar Seri Begawan: Brunei's capital city offers a unique blend of well-manicured streets, mosques, and neighbourhoods built on stilts over the river. It has a small-town feel with modern amenities.
• Kuala Belait: Brunei's second city, located on the shores of the South China Sea, offers a quiet and oil-rich environment with a well-maintained town beach.

In summary, teaching English in Brunei provides a rewarding opportunity to work in a resource-rich country with a competitive salary, generous benefits, and a supportive work culture. With its natural beauty, diverse culture, and friendly locals, Brunei offers a unique and captivating experience for TEFL instructors.

Job Centre Brunei

JCB's website allows job seekers to upload their cover letters, CVs, and other details for companies to search, review, and evaluate. Companies can also easily publish position details onto the job website at zero cost.

The centre organises recruitment events and roadshows, during which participating companies showcase vacancies, and job seekers can attend walk-in interviews. JCB also offers an i-Ready Apprenticeship Program, which provides mentorship and guidance to graduates with little or no experience to increase their employability.

JCB has been praised by companies for its proactive and supportive approach, as well as its ability to meet ambitious recruitment needs and provide good talent. The centre has successfully helped over 3,000 locals secure jobs since the beginning of 2020.

Expat and international job portals

There are a number of expat and international job portals that can help you find work in Brunei. These portals provide a wealth of information and resources to assist you in your job search. Here are some recommended websites to help you get started:

• Go Abroad: GoAbroad is a well-known website that provides a comprehensive job portal for those seeking international opportunities. They also offer valuable information on global embassies, visas, and other resources for working abroad.
• LinkedIn: This professional social network is an excellent resource for connecting with others in your field and building a network of contacts. Many job opportunities are posted on LinkedIn, and it can be a great way to make connections and learn about job openings in Brunei.
• Job Centre Brunei: This government-run website is a great first stop for job seekers. While many of the listings may not be open to foreigners, it is still worth exploring the various job postings and reaching out to potential employers.
• Career Jet: Career Jet is a popular job search engine that includes opportunities in Brunei. It covers a wide range of industries and job types, making it a convenient site to find a variety of options.
• Learn4Good: Learn4Good offers a user-friendly job portal with opportunities at various levels and in different sectors. It is worth browsing their listings to find positions that align with your skills and interests.
• Teaching English: If you are a native English speaker, teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) can be a great option. Sites like ESL Employment, Total ESL, ESL Cafe, and Tesall offer a wide range of English teaching job opportunities in Brunei. These sites provide a wealth of options for those seeking to teach English abroad.

When applying for jobs in Brunei, it is important to have a well-prepared CV and relevant documents, such as academic certificates and your passport. You can also consider registering with local employment agencies under the Department of Labour, Brunei, to increase your chances of finding suitable job vacancies.

Frequently asked questions