Jobs in France

Earn A Lot More Than Just A Living

During your stay in France, why not consider a different kind of job, teaching your native language to French children in an enjoyable and innovative way. Offering competitive hourly rates and with the possibility to interview via Skype prior to your arrival in France, you can move abroad with your mind at ease. All jobs in France at Babylangues are with CDI contracts (Contrat à durée indéterminée), the safest type of contract in France. Being employed by a French company gives you the right to French Social Security and health insurance. To help you settle in as quickly as possible, instructors are also automatically eligible for reimbursement of their yearly bike subscription, as well as a specific phone contract.

Positions as a language instructor at Babylangues offer a great sense of flexibility. With start dates possible throughout the academic year and families based in eighteen cities across France, we aim to find positions to fit around any other commitments you may have, be that your studies or another part-time position. You will have the chance to discuss possible matches personally with a dedicated member of the Babylangues team, giving you the opportunity to ask any questions or queries you may have before meeting and beginning work with a potential family.

You can also rest assured that you will be in safe hands. Over the years, many instructors have thoroughly enjoyed their experience with us, so much so that they have recommended it to their friends, strengthening Babylangues’ reputation as a reliable employer. To share your experience in France with your friends, Babylangues has even developed a referral scheme, allowing you to benefit from high-street gift vouchers or weekend trips away, making your stay in France truly memorable.

Work in France

France, renowned for its rich culture, historic landmarks, and delectable cuisine, also offers a diverse range of job opportunities. Whether you are a native French speaker, an expat, or an international professional seeking new horizons, France presents a vibrant employment landscape across various industries. In this article, we will delve into the job market in France, highlighting key sectors, popular job roles, and the overall work environment.

Thriving Industries with Jobs in France

France is home to a diverse range of thriving industries, contributing to its robust economy and providing a wide array of job opportunities for all. Some of these include:

Technology & It

France boasts a flourishing tech industry, with Paris, in particular, being a thriving tech hub. Startups, multinational corporations, and research institutes offer opportunities in software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, and AI-related fields which are yours to grab.

Finance & Banking

As one of the world’s leading financial centers, France provides a multitude of job prospects in banking, investment, insurance, and financial consultancy. The business district of Paris, known as “La Défense,” is home to many major financial institutions and offers a gateway to the European financial market.

Engineering & Manufacturing

France has a strong engineering heritage, and its manufacturing industry continues to flourish. From automotive to aerospace, energy to telecommunications, skilled engineers find ample opportunities in various sectors.

Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals

France’s healthcare system is highly regarded globally. Medical professionals, researchers, pharmacists, and biotech specialists have abundant employment options, both in public healthcare institutions and private enterprises.

Tourism & Hospitality

Given France’s status as a premier tourist destination, the tourism and hospitality industry remains vibrant. From luxury hotels to Michelin-starred restaurants, tour operators to cultural sites, the sector offers diverse jobs in France for individuals with a passion for hospitality and customer service.

Work Culture At Jobs in France

Understanding and adapting to the nuances of the French work environment is essential for a successful professional experience in the country. Whilst this can be overwhelming at first, we find that there is a lot to look forward to:

Work-life Balance – Jobs in France

One of the defining aspects of French work culture is the emphasis on work-life balance. The French believe in enjoying leisure time, fostering personal relationships, and pursuing hobbies and interests outside of work. This is reflected in the 35-hour workweek, which provides employees with more time for family, leisure activities, and personal well-being.

Hierarchical Structure

French workplaces often maintain a hierarchical structure, where respect for superiors and adherence to protocols are highly valued. Managers and supervisors hold decision-making authority, and employees are expected to follow established procedures and communicate formally. It is common for titles and professional distinctions to be important markers of respect and authority.

Formality & Professionalism

Formality is deeply ingrained in French work culture. When interacting with colleagues and superiors, it is customary to use formal greetings and maintain a professional demeanor. Dressing appropriately, paying attention to professional etiquette, and demonstrating respect for colleagues are essential in French workplaces.

Lunch Break Traditions – Jobs in France

Lunch breaks hold great significance in French work culture. The traditional French lunch break is typically longer compared to many other countries, lasting around 1-2 hours. This extended break allows employees to enjoy a leisurely meal, often in the company of colleagues or friends. Lunch breaks provide an opportunity for relaxation, socializing, and fostering relationships.

Strong Workers’ Rights

Jobs in France come with a comprehensive labor code that protects employees’ rights and ensures fair treatment in the workplace. The country has a strong tradition of workers’ rights and union representation. This commitment to social security benefits, job security, and fair compensation is deeply ingrained in the French work culture.

Communication & Directness

French communication style can sometimes be direct and straightforward. Open and honest discussions are valued, and individuals are encouraged to express their opinions and ideas. However, it is important to strike a balance and be respectful when engaging in debates or discussions. It may take some getting used to, but many people find it easier to navigate in the long run.

Annual Leave & Public Holidays

French employees enjoy generous annual leave and public holidays. The French prioritize time off to recharge, travel, and spend quality time with family and friends. Public holidays, such as Bastille Day and Christmas, are widely celebrated, and many businesses may be closed during these periods.

French Speaking? The Job Market Is Your Oyster!

There is no doubt that speaking French will open so many doors when making the move and looking for a job in France. It goes without saying that being able to communicate with your colleagues at work makes an enormous difference in terms of building relationships and being able to translate your knowledge into a new setting. 

Many expats choose to stick with their current profession and just move it across the globe, taking their skills and expertise to the next level by doing so. There may be a few logistical challenges at first, such as making sure that all your certifications and qualifications are still valid in France rather than being country specific. However, despite the many obstacles that French bureaucracy may throw at you, you do not necessarily have to throw away a career which you have already built. Just take the next step up the ladder in a new place and reap the benefits! Another possibility may be inquiring into a transfer, particularly if you work for a company with particularly international connections to countries such as France, specifically if you are looking at relocating to a big city like Paris. Why not put out some feelers and see what is on offer!

Yet, this isn’t to say that if you want a big career change along with the big move, that this isn’t possible! Your ability to speak French and English will be such an asset and it may be worth seeing what is out there in your new chosen field before making the jump.

No French Or Eu Passport? Not To Fear!

In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to work abroad is a dream for many individuals seeking new opportunities and experiences. For English-speaking professionals eyeing a move to a position in France, the prospect of finding a job that not only utilizes their language skills but also offers visa sponsorship is undoubtedly appealing. Whilst it can be difficult to secure, it is by no means impossible:

Tourism & Hospitality Industry

France is an international tourist hub, attracting millions of visitors each year. With its iconic landmarks, picturesque landscapes, and exquisite cuisine, the country offers abundant opportunities in the tourism and hospitality sector. Hotels, resorts, tour agencies, and event management companies often seek English-speaking staff members who can cater to international guests and provide excellent customer service. Working in this industry not only allows you to interact with people from diverse backgrounds but also enables you to explore different regions of France.

International Business & Finance

As one of the largest economies in Europe, France is home to numerous multinational companies and financial institutions. English is widely used as the language of business, making it essential for these organizations to have proficient English speakers on their teams. Jobs in France such as business development, sales, marketing, finance, and consulting often require fluency in English and offer opportunities for foreign professionals to contribute their expertise. Working in the international business and finance sectors not only provides a competitive salary but also opens doors to a global career path.

It & Tech Industry

France has emerged as a prominent player in the European tech landscape, with thriving startup ecosystems and established tech companies. English fluency is highly valued in this job in France due to its international nature. IT professionals, software engineers, developers, data analysts, and digital marketers with strong English skills can find rewarding opportunities in France’s tech hubs, such as Paris, Lyon, and Toulouse. These positions often come with visa sponsorship, allowing talented individuals to contribute to France’s tech innovation while enjoying the vibrant lifestyle it offers.

There are countless other opportunities and industries which could offer you the chance to make the move and these industries above are by no means an exhaustive list. Be sure to check out our guide for applying for jobs in France linked here and for more help for writing your CV.

Jobs in France