Spanish engineers, is it worth working abroad?
For many Spanish engineers, working abroad can mean better professional opportunities, international experience and greater recognition of their technical skills. But is moving abroad really worth it?
We spoke to Spanish engineers who have built part of their careers abroad to understand what motivated them to leave Spain, what they gained from the experience and how they view it today.
Why are Spanish engineers choosing to work abroad?
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 who graduated from the University of Seville and founder of Spanish Engineers, created the company in 2022 after observing a clear contrast: while several European markets were experiencing a shortage of engineers, many qualified engineers in Spain felt undervalued.
Originally from Villamartín, in the province of Cádiz, Juan worked as an engineer in Belgium for 10 years and participated in projects in countries including Argentina, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, the Netherlands and France.
He returned to Spain in 2021 with the idea of helping other engineers build international careers, drawing on the professional network he had developed in Belgium and elsewhere in Europe.
“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 working in countries such as Belgium benefit from an international environment, stronger language skills and exposure to a high technical level of engineering. They also gain experience working on 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 Spanish engineers who moved abroad think?
We spoke to several Spanish engineers who have built their careers abroad to find out how they experienced the move and what they value most about working internationally.
Mechanical 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.”
Industrial Design Engineer
“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.”
Civil 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.”
Telecom 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.”
What can Spanish engineers gain from working abroad?
Professional recognition
International companies often value the technical preparation and practical experience of Spanish engineers.
Career development
International projects can expose engineers to larger teams, new technologies and different ways of working.
Economic conditions
Salary and overall professional conditions can be an important factor, although they vary significantly by country, sector and experience.
International experience
Working abroad can strengthen technical, language and interpersonal skills and make engineers more adaptable to different working environments.
Is working abroad worth it?
For many Spanish engineers, working abroad can be a valuable career decision, particularly when it provides access to better professional opportunities, international projects and greater recognition.
However, moving abroad is a personal and professional decision. The right opportunity depends on the country, project, salary, working conditions, career prospects and personal circumstances.
What the experiences shared in this article have in common is that international engineering work can open doors that may not always be available in the domestic market.
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