Are you a Filipino considering working overseas to earn a better salary and provide for your family? With millions of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) globally, you’re not alone. But with so many job options in different countries, it can be overwhelming to figure out which path to take. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 highest paying OFW jobs abroad to help guide your search.
1. Nurse
Nurses are in high demand globally, especially in countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. With the right qualifications and experience, Filipino nurses can earn competitive salaries abroad. For example, the average annual salary for a registered nurse in the U.S. is around $77,000.
2. IT Professional
The tech industry continues to boom worldwide, creating many lucrative opportunities for Filipino IT professionals. From software engineers to data scientists, OFWs with IT skills are well-compensated in countries like the U.S., Australia, and Singapore. Senior software engineers can earn over $100,000 per year in these countries.
3. Engineer
Engineers across various specialties, such as civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering, are sought after in countries undertaking major infrastructure projects. In the Middle East, particularly in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, Filipino engineers can command high salaries in the construction and oil industries.
4. Executive Chef
Skilled Filipino chefs are valued in the food and beverage industry worldwide. Executive chefs in high-end restaurants and hotels can earn impressive salaries, especially in culinary capitals like Singapore, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi. Top executive chefs can earn upwards of $50,000 annually.
5. Aviation Professional
The global aviation industry employs many OFWs, from pilots to aircraft mechanics. While becoming a pilot requires significant training, it can lead to a high-flying salary. For instance, a senior pilot for a major Middle Eastern airline can earn over $150,000 per year. Aircraft mechanics are also well-compensated, with salaries around $50,000-$80,000 in countries like Australia and Canada.
6. Healthcare Management
In addition to hands-on medical roles, OFWs with healthcare management expertise are in demand to oversee hospitals, clinics, and healthcare projects. Healthcare administrators and managers can earn salaries in the range of $70,000-$120,000, particularly in the U.S. and Canada.
7. Education Professionals
Filipino teachers, university lecturers, and education specialists are valued in many countries for their English proficiency and teaching skills. In destinations like the United States, Canada, and China, education professionals can secure competitive salaries and benefits packages.
8. Cruise Ship Workers
The cruise industry employs a significant number of OFWs across various roles, from entertainers to chefs to customer service staff. While salaries vary by position, crew members receive free accommodation and meals, allowing them to save a larger portion of their income. Cruise ship jobs also offer opportunities to travel and see the world.
9. Oil and Gas Professionals
Countries rich in oil and gas, such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Canada, hire skilled OFWs to work on drilling rigs and in refineries. Jobs in this industry, like petroleum engineers and rig managers, offer high salaries due to the technical expertise required and the remote work locations.
10. C-Suite Executives
Finally, at the top end of the salary spectrum are C-suite executives – the chief officers of major corporations. While reaching this level requires many years of experience and exceptional qualifications, Filipinos in C-suite roles abroad, such as CEOs and CFOs, can earn salaries well over $200,000.
When considering any overseas job, it’s important to look beyond the salary and assess the full picture, including cost of living, job security, and alignment with your skills and goals. With the right opportunity and preparation, working abroad can provide not only a high salary but valuable professional and personal growth for OFWs.
