Job Discussion Forums

JZer · Joined: 16 Jan 2005 Posts: 3898 Location: Pittsburgh

So what is the current situation in Panama? Anyone there? When are the best times to find a job? I would like to teach there after my contract in Korea is over.

mwilltru15 · Posted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 3:05 pm Post subject: Me too

I'm interested in Panama too........anyone have anything on the country, the people, the job market?

existe1 · Joined: 12 Nov 2005 Posts: 7

i am interested in Panama too for the long haul. I have a 1 year old and am looking to establish a new home for awhile. Can one stay in Panama for a while?

pirateinpanama · Joined: 04 Feb 2003 Posts: 93 Location: Panama City, Panama

things have changed drastically in recent times. VERY FEW places will hire you without a work permit, and going through the bureaucratic labyrinth is a costly nightmare that's almost impossible without having a lawyer. Even being married to a Panamanian is no longer a guarantee. For example, I've been doing the same university job for almost six years and because I'm missing one document, I'm forced to take off in the middle of a semester until this is sorted out.
For university jobs, you'll need a minimum of a BA. Certificates don't cut the musterd. There are "private" elementary schools that will hire a person without a degree, but you may as well be teaching at some public school back home. Language schools such as ELS may be an option.
As long as immigrants flood into this country, I see no easing of restrictions. It's good $$, but many headaches involved.
All from my perch, anyway.
GOOD LUCK!!

The Great Toad · Posted: Thu Jun 15, 2006 9:29 am Post subject:

pirateinpanama · Joined: 04 Feb 2003 Posts: 93 Location: Panama City, Panama

Hi Toad,
Try Oxford International School on Via Espana. That's not to be confused with the horrible Oxford School. Oxford Int. doesn't have too much of a turnover , but you might catch them at the right time. They're really good people.$800 per month.
Once again, the problem is work permits. They've come down on us pretty hard ...like me...I've been here for years and never paid a "dime" in taxes. Those days are over now.
Just do it! Get on a jet , come down, and try your luck
I wish you the best!

misteradventure · Joined: 18 Aug 2003 Posts: 246

The Oxford Intl. location can't be beat, either, being across from El Panama and minutes away from Manolo's.

If you could send me a PM/Offline about the positions you described, it would be wonderful. I'm writing on behalf of a certified teacher of foreign languages (including English) who is too busy working right now to peruse these forums.

Or you could give me your mobile number and we can meet for a beer in July when I am in the City.
-r

The Great Toad · Posted: Sun Jun 18, 2006 5:05 am Post subject:

Hmm well I always thought it would be nice to teach at Cambridge but I guess Oxford would suffice Laughing

Umm no thanks for the help. Maybe I will try them. But, today a lady who had been to Costa Rica told me it was beautiful, and the people friendly and accommodating. Then again I think she had the big Gs being on a vacation and all.