Finding Employment In Brunei: A Guide To Success

Brunei's thriving economy, largely fuelled by its international relations and oil deposits, makes it an attractive destination for job seekers. The country's status as a bridge between Europe and Oceania also makes it ideal for those looking to expand their business horizons across continents.

However, it is important to note that finding a job in Brunei can be challenging, especially for foreigners, due to the preference for employing locals. The best chances for expatriates lie in the many international industries present in the country, with English being the preferred language of business.

Online job portals, such as LinkedIn, and expat forums are excellent resources for job hunting in Brunei. Additionally, there are opportunities for teaching English as a foreign language, which is always in demand.

It is advisable to have a clear understanding of your desired industry and to be well-prepared for the application and interview process. Networking and traditional word-of-mouth referrals can also be valuable tools in your job search.

When considering a career in Brunei, it is important to keep in mind the contributions to the state-managed provident fund, Tabung Amanah Perkerja (TAP), required of all citizens, permanent residents, and expatriates.

Online job searches

Using Online Job Portals

Online job portals are a great way to find work in Brunei. Some websites catering to the Bruneian job market include:

• Www.jobinbrunei.com/English
• Www.jobstreet.com
• Borneo Bulletin
• Brunei Straits Times
• Onebrunei.com
• Brudirect.com
• Worldwideworker.com

Using Social Media

Using sites like LinkedIn can be a massive help when looking for a job in Brunei. It is also a brilliant way to build a social base once you arrive in the country.

Using Company Websites

Some companies advertise job vacancies on their websites. Examples include:

• SHELL
• TOTAL
• International schools: http://www.ISB.edu.BN/ and http://www.JIS.edu.BN/

Using Recruitment Agencies

Some sources suggest that there are few employment agencies or offices locally in Brunei. However, recruitment agencies can be a good way to find work, and they will often be more willing to take on non-locals if you have the experience or skills they want.

Expat and international job portals

There are several expat and international job portals that can help you find job opportunities in Brunei. Here are some recommended websites:

• Job Centre Brunei (JCB): JCB is a government-run website that serves as a "One-Stop Career Center" for local job seekers and companies. It offers a range of services, including job matching, an i-Ready Apprenticeship Program, and recruitment events. The website provides information on current vacancies, allows job seekers to upload their CVs and cover letters, and assists companies in their local recruitment processes.
• Go Abroad: Go Abroad is a comprehensive platform that offers not only job postings but also expert advice and cultural programs to guide your move overseas. It can be a valuable resource for those seeking international career opportunities.
• CareerJet: CareerJet is a worldwide job search engine that allows you to explore job postings in over 60 countries. It features a "worldwide" tab where you can search for jobs based on industry or location.
• Indeed Worldwide: Indeed Worldwide operates similarly to its domestic counterpart but with a focus on international job hunting. It covers more than 60 locations, and while descriptions may be in the local language, using translation tools can help overcome this minor hurdle.
• Jooble: Jooble is another popular website for international job seekers, featuring job listings in over 60 countries. It is particularly useful for finding jobs in developing nations.
• LinkedIn: This professional social network is ideal for building contacts and networking within your industry and desired location. It allows you to connect with professionals in Brunei and learn about potential job opportunities.
• Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL): If you're interested in teaching English, TEFL offers online certification and an innovative job board. It provides filters and a map to help you find pre-approved schools in need of teachers.

In addition to these portals, you can also explore other websites like CareerBuilder International, Monster Worldwide, and Going Global, which offer job listings and resources for aspiring expats.

Social media sites like LinkedIn

Firstly, you can use the Open To Work feature to privately tell recruiters or publicly share with the LinkedIn community that you are looking for new job opportunities in Brunei. This is a great way to signal to recruiters that you are open to new opportunities.

Secondly, LinkedIn allows you to post jobs and search for jobs. When posting a job, you can include details such as the job location, which can be set to Brunei. When searching for jobs, you can use the search bar to look for jobs in Brunei. You can also use the 'Jobs' tab in the menu to find jobs, and use the location filter to narrow down the results to those based in Brunei.

Thirdly, LinkedIn offers a wide range of online courses and training programs to help you develop new skills and improve your career prospects. These courses cover a variety of topics, including business, technology, marketing, human resources, and more.

Additionally, LinkedIn is a great platform to network and connect with people who can help you in your job search. You can find and connect with colleagues, classmates, and friends, as well as join professional groups and communities related to your industry or interests.

Finally, LinkedIn provides a variety of resources to help you navigate your professional life, such as articles, live videos, stories, and newsletters. These resources can help you stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and developments, and make informed career decisions.

Overall, LinkedIn is a valuable tool for job seekers looking for opportunities in Brunei, offering a range of features to help connect, inform, and improve your professional life.

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)

Brunei is a small, wealthy nation on the tropical island of Borneo, known for its beautiful beaches and diverse rainforest. It is one of the richest countries in the world, largely due to its oil deposits and international relations.

The country has a thriving economy and is a hub for international business, making it an attractive destination for expatriates seeking employment. With English being widely used as a secondary language in Brunei, there are plenty of opportunities for Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL).

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Native English proficiency or near-native fluency.
• A bachelor's degree, preferably in English, literature, humanities, or teaching.
• At least three years of classroom teaching experience, including a minimum of one year of teaching English as a Second Language (ESL).
• An active teaching license or qualification (such as PGCE, Bed, DipT, etc.) recognised in Brunei, preferably from Commonwealth nations like the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, or South Africa.
• For secondary school teachers, the age limit is under 55, while for primary school teachers, it is under 52 at the start of the contract.

Salary and Benefits:

• The salary for teaching in Brunei ranges from B$42,000 to B$77,000 per year, which is tax-free and includes yearly increments.
• Competitive salaries with the potential to save due to the low cost of living.
• Housing is provided, and it is typically generously-sized and furnished.
• Education support for dependents at international schools at subsidised rates.
• Opportunities for career progression and professional development.
• A welcoming work environment with well-funded schools and enthusiastic students.
• A supportive work culture with great perks and benefits.

Work Culture and Environment:

• Teachers in Brunei typically work 15 to 20 hours per week, along with 10 hours of after-school activities or sports coaching.
• The school year runs from January to November, with the primary holiday in December and vacation breaks in March, June, September, and December, depending on the time of Ramadan.
• The dress code in Brunei is conservative, with male teachers wearing long-sleeved shirts and ties, and female teachers wearing skirts and blouses with high necklines and sleeves below the elbow.
• The students in Brunei are Malay Muslims and Chinese citizens or permanent residents, with indigenous groups represented in rural areas. They have varying levels of English proficiency and a wide range of abilities and motivations.
• Discipline issues are generally rare, and schools have processes in place to address them.
• Brunei has a safe and clean environment, with efficient hospitals and good cleanliness standards in restaurants. However, it is recommended to avoid drinking untreated tap water.

Application Process:

• Teaching jobs in Brunei are available throughout the year, but most recruiting is done from January to March.
• Applications can be made from your home country through online portals, and the process may include several phone or Skype interviews.
• Once hired, the visa application will be handled by the Ministry of Education.
• Required documents include a CV, teaching license or qualification, letters of recommendation, and college transcripts.

Popular Destinations:

• Bandar Seri Begawan (BSB), the capital city, is the most likely destination, offering a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional culture.
• Kuala Belait, the second city, is a quiet, oil-rich town known for its well-maintained beach.

Additional Considerations:

• As a Muslim country, alcohol and pork are not available in Brunei, but you are allowed to bring your own alcohol for personal consumption.
• Brunei has strict dress codes and cultural expectations, so it is important to be respectful and adopt a pragmatic approach to fit into the local culture.

Traditional job search methods

To make use of word-of-mouth referrals, it's important to network and build a social base. This can be done through local events and social activities, as well as through online platforms like LinkedIn. By connecting with people in your industry and with similar interests, you can learn about job opportunities that may not be advertised online.

When job hunting in Brunei, it's also beneficial to have a clear understanding of the type of work you are seeking and to be prepared for the application and interview process. This includes having a well-prepared CV that highlights your relevant skills and experiences.

Additionally, teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) is an option for native English speakers. As English is widely used in Brunei, there is likely to be a demand for English language teachers.

Overall, traditional job search methods in Brunei rely on building connections and networking, both online and offline, to learn about and secure job opportunities.

Frequently asked questions