Spanish engineers, is it worth working abroad?

Would you be willing to give up the sun and the Spanish movida to go work in Northern Europe? Is it worth it? We have asked several Spanish engineers who have taken the step.

Many times we have the impression that in Spain we have it all: the sun, the nightlife, the food… but for many that is not enough and they decide to leave the country. In search of what?

“Better economic recognition, a good balance between professional and private life, faster career progression… These are some of the benefits that engineers value when they decide to move.” Juan Aguilera, a mechanical engineer graduated from the University of Seville and founder of Spanish Engineers, a company specialized in the hiring and relocation of engineers throughout Europe, tells us. “I created Spanish Engineers in 2022, following a double observation: although there is a shortage of engineers in various parts of Europe, in Spain there are many qualified engineers who do not feel well valued. In my work, I am in daily contact with engineers in search of recognition and professional growth and I help them achieve their expectations through my international network.”

Originally from Villamartín, in the province of Cádiz, Juan worked as an engineer in Belgium for 10 years. A time during which he had the opportunity to participate in a variety of projects that led him to discover many countries such as Argentina, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, the Netherlands and France, among others. Juan returned to Spain in 2021 with the idea of helping other engineers like him build their international careers, making use of his network in Belgium and in other European countries. “Living and working abroad was the best experience of my life, both from a professional and personal point of view. I highly encourage my peers to do the same, even if it’s just for a few years. Working 2 or 3 years abroad is equivalent to 5 to 6 years of experience in your home country. It gives great self-confidence and it establishes a solid foundation for any future plans you may have.”

According to Juan, engineers who work in countries like Belgium benefit greatly from this experience from all points of view: they are exposed to an international environment, they improve their language skills and they have access to a very high technical level of engineering and participate in very innovative international projects. “In addition to making good money in a country with a high quality of life, it is an experience that opens new perspectives to those who dare.”

What do other engineers who have also lived the experience think? We have asked the question to other Spanish engineers established in Belgium for several years.

“I came to Belgium 8 years ago in search of well-paid professional opportunities. I have achieved a good quality of life both professionally and personally, not only due to the greater economic recognition but also due to a very good balance between private and professional life. I encourage those who are hesitating to give it a try, they will not regret it.”

Iván, from Madrid

Industrial engineer

“I left Spain 12 years ago because I was unemployed and I was offered only temporary, poorly paid jobs. It took me a few months before I got my first job as an engineer in Belgium. Belgian companies trust in the preparation of Spanish engineers and value them highly. Don't hesitate to take the leap! “After 12 years in Belgium, I do not plan to return to Spain.”

Pablo, from Huelva

Mechanical Engineer

“More than 15 years ago I decided to continue my professional career in Belgium. The international character of Brussels caught my attention and, well, I decided to live the experience. And it didn't disappoint me! I find it enriching to have a work environment with colleagues from all over the world and to experience different ways of working. After so many years in Brussels, I wanted to go back to Madrid. And in the process of returning, I have realized that companies highly value having had international experience (for the languages, the ability to adapt better to new situations...). On a personal level, I am glad that my children have been able to learn other languages, an advantage that will benefit them for the rest of their lives.”

María, from Madrid

IT Engineer

“I decided to expatriate to Belgium because of the good working conditions that the country offers, the high technical level of Belgian companies and the opportunities for growth within the engineering sector. Without a doubt one of the best decisions I have made! I think that starting with a company like Spanish Engineers is a very good option, since it allows you to access quality projects more quickly thanks to the network they have.”

Sol, from Sevilla

Civil Engineer

How about your experience?

About Spanish Engineers

The company Spanish Engineers offers international job opportunities to Spanish and European engineers in general. It is a consulting and recruiting company specialized in engineering and construction projects in various industrial sectors such as: waste-to-energy, renewable energy, data centers, fertilizers, biodiesel, agri-food, pharmaceutical and chemicals. Spanish Engineers connect engineers with international companies that always offer the best conditions and all possible help during the expatriation process.

If you are an engineer, you speak French and/or English and want to expand your skills abroad, contact Juan Sebastián Aguilera Blanco a través de LinkedIn.