How to Find a Job Before Making Aliyah: A Comprehensive Guide

22 Sept

Making Aliyah (immigration to Israel) is a significant life decision that requires thorough planning. One of the most critical aspects of this transition is finding a job before moving to Israel. Fortunately, Israel has a thriving job market, particularly in sectors like high-tech, healthcare, and education. This guide outlines key steps to help you secure employment in Israel before making Aliyah.

1. Research the Job Market

Understanding the Israeli job market is crucial before you start your job search. Certain sectors are more in demand than others, and salaries vary widely depending on the industry.

High-demand sectors: Israel's tech industry is world-renowned, making roles in software development, data science, and engineering highly sought after. Other strong sectors include healthcare, education, and finance.
Service and hospitality jobs: If you’re looking for work in retail, tourism, or customer service, Israel has plenty of opportunities, especially in cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

Useful resources to research Israeli jobs:

JobMob: A platform that provides tips for job seekers in Israel.
LinkedIn: Widely used in Israel, especially for professional networking.
The Israeli Ministry of Aliyah and Integration: Offers assistance to those seeking jobs before making Aliyah.

2. Use Israeli Job Search Websites

Several websites cater specifically to job seekers in Israel. Most of these are available in both Hebrew and English, but learning Hebrew will significantly improve your chances.

Jobnet.co.il: A popular job search site in Israel, featuring roles in various sectors.
AllJobs.co.il: One of the largest job boards in Israel, offering roles across industries.
Glassdoor.co.il: Use this to research company reviews and salaries in Israel.
LinkedIn: Israeli companies regularly post jobs on LinkedIn, making it a great platform for international applicants.

3. Tailor Your CV for the Israeli Job Market

Israeli employers expect a different format and style than what you might be used to. Keep these tips in mind when tailoring your CV:

Be concise: Israeli resumes are usually no longer than one page, even for experienced professionals. Focus on key achievements.
Highlight relevant experience: Emphasize any experience that would be relevant to the job you’re applying for, especially if it includes international or multicultural work.
Include language skills: Mention any languages you speak, especially Hebrew and English. Hebrew skills are not always mandatory, but they’re highly valued.

4. Network with Israeli Professionals

Networking is one of the most effective ways to find a job in Israel. Leverage personal and professional connections to help you navigate the Israeli job market.

LinkedIn: Connect with professionals in your desired industry, follow Israeli companies, and engage with relevant posts. Joining Israeli networking groups on LinkedIn can help you find leads.
Nefesh B'Nefesh Employment Resource Center: This organization assists Olim (immigrants to Israel) in job placement and runs networking events.
Attend webinars and events: Many organizations host virtual events aimed at helping prospective Olim find jobs. These events allow you to meet recruiters and other Olim who can provide valuable advice.

5. Consult Aliyah Organizations

Organizations like Nefesh B'Nefesh and The Jewish Agency offer extensive resources for those planning to make Aliyah, including job listings, workshops, and one-on-one career counseling.

Nefesh B'Nefesh: They offer guidance on everything from CV writing to interview preparation and connect Olim with potential employers. Their "Employment Department" specifically helps those seeking jobs before Aliyah.
Jewish Agency for Israel: Provides assistance for potential Olim in various ways, including career advice and job search assistance.

6. Apply for Remote Jobs

Some companies, especially in the high-tech sector, allow remote work from abroad, giving you the opportunity to start working while still in your home country. Once you make Aliyah, you can transition to working in Israel or continue remotely if the company allows.

Freelance opportunities: Israel’s booming tech industry also offers many opportunities for freelancers and remote workers. Websites like Upwork or Fiverr feature many Israeli companies looking for freelancers.

7. Prepare for Interviews

Job interviews in Israel can be more direct than what you may be used to. Israeli culture values straightforwardness, and interviewers often ask pointed questions.

Be ready for Hebrew interviews: If the job requires Hebrew, you may be asked questions in Hebrew during the interview. Brush up on your language skills accordingly.
Prepare for technical questions: For tech roles, expect in-depth technical interviews. Israeli companies often conduct multiple rounds, including coding tests or technical problem-solving scenarios.

8. Consider Internships and Volunteer Programs

If you're having difficulty finding a permanent position, internships and volunteer programs can be great ways to gain experience, build connections, and learn Hebrew.

Masa Israel Journey: Offers professional internships in various industries, allowing you to build work experience in Israel.
Volunteer programs: Participating in a volunteer program like Sar-El or other non-profit organizations can help you acclimate to Israeli work culture while building a local network.

9. Familiarize Yourself with Israeli Employment Laws

It’s essential to understand your rights and obligations as an employee in Israel. Key aspects to consider include:

Sick leave and vacation time: Israeli employees are entitled to sick leave and paid vacation, although the amount of leave varies by industry.
Minimum wage: As of 2024, the minimum wage in Israel is NIS 5,300 per month (~$1,400), but this varies depending on your role and experience.

10. Language Skills

While English is widely spoken in many sectors, especially in high-tech, knowing Hebrew is essential for broadening your job prospects. If you're serious about making Aliyah, start learning Hebrew before your move. Many jobs in Israel, particularly in government, education, healthcare, and customer service, require a good command of Hebrew.

Ulpan courses: Upon making Aliyah, you are eligible for free Hebrew language courses (Ulpan), which help you become fluent faster.

Finding a job before making Aliyah is entirely possible with the right approach. By researching the job market, networking, and using the resources available for Olim, you can secure a job that fits your skills and experience. Whether you’re looking to work in high-tech, healthcare, education, or any other field, being proactive and strategic in your search will increase your chances of success.

Adam Kushner