ESL teachers in Saudi Arabia/questions on negotiating salaries, etc.

Hi Itchyfeet,

Generally, if you're application is being processed by a recruiter, they will act as the client school's (your employer) agent. They take your application package (resume and pertinent documents) and forward them to their client (your employer) and if you are short-listed, then the recruiter turns you over at this point to deal directly with the employer in some kind of interview (maybe via Skype or telephone interview).  From then on, arragements are between you and the employer.  With regard to your salary, if you aren't dealing with the employer yet, then sure, tell the recruiter your salary expectations.  They will then relay the info to the employer who will accept or reject it, or whatever. SO it goes back and forth like that, usually.  I was directly hired by my sponsor with no middle-man recruiter involved when I came here to teach ESL;however, I've noticed from ESL websites that many schools commission recruiters to do this, at least up to the point where you are hired, before they start dealing directly with you.  I hope this helps.  I'm a male instructor, so I'm not really sure about the female accommodation issue. Perhaps one of the female instructors reading this can give more information. Good luck.

Hi Dave KSA,

I really appreciate you taking the time to answer me. I told the recruiter I expected at least 250 a month more. I have a TEFL, BA and MS. I have experience but not a ton. I really hoped to make more than the bottom of the extra 250 a month. I know they are desperate to get women over there since we are not treated as well as you guys. It's a much bigger change for us.

They also don't have us on compounds and according to the contract I'll be in the capital but I won't know where I'm going until I get there.

Do you of any places that people don't want to work? I want to know if I'm given a choice to not pick that place.

Thank You and any other information would be great too.

ItchyFeet24

Hi,

Generally you can negotiate the contracts in Saudia  By 12% to 20% of initial offering, it varies from Industry to Industry. My experience is based on Finance/Business industry but i have heard that when it comes to Universities - professors can negotiate much higher contracts.
I was given this advice by a senior Canadian in Saudi that Join the company and negotiate upon the renewal of your contract.
Once you will be here, you also have the option to look for compounds and re-locate there. Just make sure that in your contract it says that " Company will provide suitable accomodation or ___ __ __ dollar amount"