Mexico Long-Term Work

If you’re planning on spending a substantial amount of time (more than 3 months) working in Mexico, search for a job well in advance. International placement agencies are often the easiest way to find employment abroad, especially for those interested in teaching English. Although they are often only available to college students, internships are a good way to segue into working abroad; they are often un- or underpaid, but many say the experience is well worth it. Be wary of advertisements for companies claiming to be able get you a job abroad for a fee—often the same listings are available online or in newspapers.

Teaching jobs abroad are rarely well-paid, although some elite private American schools offer competitive salaries. Volunteering as a teacher in lieu of getting paid is a popular option; even then, teachers often receive some sort of a daily stipend to help with living expenses. Expect your salary to match the low cost of living in Mexico. In almost all cases, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree to be a full-time teacher, although college undergraduates can often get summer positions teaching or tutoring.

Many schools require teachers to have a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certificate. You may still be able to find a teaching job without certification, but certified teachers often find higher-paying jobs. Native English speakers working in private schools are most often hired for English-immersion classrooms where no Spanish is spoken. Those volunteering or teaching in public schools are more likely to be working in both English and Spanish. Placement agencies or university fellowship programs are the best resources for finding teaching jobs. The alternative is to contact schools directly or to try your luck once you arrive in Mexico. If you are going to try the latter, the best time to look is several weeks before the start of the school year. The following organizations are extremely helpful in placing teachers in Mexico.

International Schools Services (ISS), 15 Roszel Rd., P.O. Box 5910, Princeton, NJ 08543, USA (☎609-452-0990; www.iss.edu). Hires teachers for more than 200 overseas schools, including the Colegio Americano de Torreón. Candidates should have experience teaching or with international affairs. 2-year commitment expected.
Office of Overseas Schools, US Department of State, Room H328, SA-1, Washington, D.C. 20522, USA (☎202-261-8200; www.state.gov/m/a/os/). Keeps a list of schools abroad and agencies that arrange placement for Americans to teach abroad.
Teachers Latin America, Río Ebro 31, Ste. 3, Colonia Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City, D.F. 06500, Mexico (☎555 533 1233 or 555 533 1228; www.innovative-english.com). TESS-EFL and TEFL certification, language courses, internships, and job placement services. US$200-1200, including homestay and accommodations. Typical certification program 9-12 weeks for minimum 6-month position.