How To Get A Job In Israel
1. Research the Israeli Job Market in Depth
Key Sectors and Opportunities
Israel offers a wide range of job opportunities, but its economy is particularly known for its high-tech sector, often referred to as the Startup Nation. Here’s a closer look at the primary industries:
High-Tech and IT:
Israel is a global leader in cybersecurity, software development, AI, fintech, semiconductors, and data analysis.
Major global companies such as Google, Intel, Microsoft, Apple, and IBM have research and development centers in Israel, offering a variety of roles for tech professionals.
Startups are another major player. Cities like Tel Aviv, Herzliya, and Haifa are known as hubs of innovation, with numerous opportunities for software engineers, data scientists, UX/UI designers, and product managers.
Healthcare and Life Sciences:
Israel is also a global leader in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and healthcare innovation.
If you have a background in biomedical engineering, clinical research, or pharmaceuticals, there are significant opportunities in companies like Teva Pharmaceuticals, Rafael, and Medtronic.
Agriculture and Water Technology:
Israel has pioneered innovations in agritech, sustainable farming, and water management. Engineers and scientists specializing in agricultural technologies, irrigation, and environmental science will find roles in companies developing cutting-edge solutions.
Global challenges related to water scarcity make Israeli expertise in water desalination, irrigation systems, and recycling especially valuable.
Finance and Fintech:
Israel’s finance and fintech sector is growing, with significant investment in blockchain technology, online banking, and financial software development.
Roles in financial analysis, accounting, and investment banking are available in large banks like Bank Leumi and Bank Hapoalim, as well as in fintech startups.
Education and English Teaching:
There is a demand for English teachers in private schools, international schools, and universities. Teachers with qualifications in TESOL or TEFL can often find work teaching English as a second language.
In addition, Israel has a growing number of international schools that seek educators for various subjects in English.
Tourism and Hospitality:
Israel’s tourism sector is robust, particularly in cities like Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Eilat. Jobs in hospitality, travel management, tour guiding, and hotel operations are available.
Non-Profit Sector (NGOs):
Israel has a wide range of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and non-profits focusing on areas such as human rights, international development, and environmental protection.
Positions in project management, fundraising, and community outreach are common within the non-profit sector.
Remote and Freelance Work
Remote work opportunities in Israel are on the rise, particularly for those in digital marketing, graphic design, content creation, and software development.
Freelancing platforms like Fiverr and Upwork also have a strong presence in Israel, allowing professionals in creative and technical fields to find contract-based work.
2. Tailor Your Israeli CV (Resume) and Portfolio
Creating an Israeli-style CV is different from CVs in other countries. Here’s how to create a compelling CV that meets the standards in Israel:
Formatting Your CV
Conciseness:
In Israel, brevity is highly valued. Your CV should be no more than 1-2 pages, regardless of your experience level. Focus on highlighting your most relevant skills and achievements rather than listing every job or project you’ve ever done.
Key Sections to Include:
Personal Information: Include your full name, contact details, citizenship status, and languages spoken. Mention if you are an Oleh Chadash (new immigrant), as this could make you eligible for tax benefits and other incentives that employers appreciate.
Professional Experience: Highlight your most recent roles and focus on achievements, measurable results, and the impact you had in each position. Israeli employers want to see that you are proactive and results-driven.
Education: List your degrees, certifications, and any relevant professional development courses. In Israel, degrees from accredited institutions abroad are generally well-respected, but be prepared to explain their equivalence to Israeli degrees.
Technical Skills: Be specific about your technical expertise and industry-specific knowledge. For tech jobs, list programming languages, software tools, and platforms you’ve worked with.
Languages: Fluency in Hebrew is highly valued, but English is often a key asset, especially in high-tech and international roles. If you speak additional languages, highlight them, as Israel’s workforce is increasingly global.
Optional: Photo:
While not mandatory, many Israeli CVs include a professional photo. It’s more common in some industries, like media or public relations.
Be Culturally Aware:
Israeli employers often prefer direct, no-nonsense language. Use clear, concise sentences and active verbsto describe your experience and achievements.
Adapt Your CV for Specific Jobs
Tailor your CV for each job by emphasizing the skills and experiences that are most relevant to that specific role. Use keywords from the job listing, as many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan CVs before they reach a human reviewer.
Provide a Cover Letter: A concise cover letter should accompany your CV. In Israel, employers appreciate a straightforward, personalized letter that explains why you’re interested in the role and how your experience aligns with their needs.
3. Leverage Networking to Find Job Opportunities
In Israel, networking plays a critical role in job hunting. Many jobs are filled through personal connections, and the concept of "protektzia" (influence through connections) is commonly referenced in Israel’s employment landscape. Here’s how to network effectively:
LinkedIn: An Essential Tool
Optimize your LinkedIn profile: Make sure your LinkedIn profile is detailed and professional. Join Israeli job groups on LinkedIn, such as Tel Aviv Tech Jobs or Secret Tel Aviv Jobs.
Connect with Israeli professionals: Reach out to people who work in your industry in Israel, especially those who have made Aliyah. Engaging in informational interviews can help you learn more about the Israeli job market and make valuable connections.
Attend Job Fairs and Networking Events
Career Israel and Nefesh B'Nefesh often organize career fairs and networking events tailored for new immigrants. These events are excellent opportunities to meet potential employers, gain insight into various industries, and network with fellow professionals.
Industry-specific meetups: Many tech events, such as Cybertech Tel Aviv or TechCrunch Israel, offer networking opportunities where you can connect with recruiters and employers.
Use Olim (New Immigrant) Support Networks
Cities like Jerusalem, Raanana, and Modi’in have Olim communities that can offer job leads, support, and mentorship. These groups help connect you to other immigrants who have successfully integrated into the Israeli job market.
Secret Tel Aviv and similar Facebook groups are popular among Olim and expats and offer job postings, networking events, and advice for navigating life in Israel.
4. Tap Into Job Search Programs for Olim
Nefesh B’Nefesh Employment Services
Nefesh B'Nefesh offers extensive job support services for new immigrants, including:
Personalized career counseling: Meet with job coaches who understand the Israeli job market.
Employment workshops: These focus on CV writing, interview preparation, and negotiation skills.
Job listings: They maintain a job board specifically for Olim that includes positions across industries and levels.
Professional networks: They connect new immigrants with mentors or industry leaders who can help guide your job search.
Israeli Ministry of Aliyah and Integration
The Ministry of Aliyah and Integration provides financial support and career development programs for new immigrants. Benefits may include:
Rent subsidies.
Language courses.
Vocational training programs, especially in high-demand fields such as healthcare or engineering.
MASA Career Program
MASA offers internships and work-study programs for young adults (18-30) in industries such as tech, business, and social impact. MASA internships often provide housing and stipends and can serve as a springboard into full-time employment.
5. Learn Hebrew (Ulpan and Beyond)
While English is widely spoken in many Israeli industries, especially in tech and international business, having some fluency in Hebrew will open many doors and make your transition easier.
Ulpan (Hebrew Classes)
Ulpan is an intensive Hebrew language course for new immigrants. Classes focus on practical conversation, reading, and writing. Many Olim attend Ulpan Etzion or Ulpan Gordon, both well-regarded programs. You can find Ulpan courses in almost every city.
Free Ulpan for Olim: New immigrants (Olim) are entitled to free Ulpan classes for up to five months. These classes are provided by the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration and can be full-time or part-time.
Online Hebrew Learning Resources
For those looking for flexibility, online platforms such as Duolingo, Rosetta Stone, and HebrewPod101 offer digital courses that focus on conversational skills, vocabulary, and grammar.
Italki and Tandem are platforms that allow you to find language exchange partners or hire private Hebrew tutors to improve your proficiency.
Real-Life Practice
Practice Hebrew in everyday situations like grocery shopping, ordering in restaurants, or conversing with neighbors. Many Israelis appreciate the effort and are willing to help you practice.
6. Understand Israeli Work Culture
Adapting to Israeli work culture is essential for long-term success. Israel has a unique workplace environment, characterized by direct communication, informality, and a fast-paced, innovative mindset.
Direct Communication
Israelis are known for being straightforward and direct in both professional and social interactions. During meetings, you may find that feedback is given without much preamble, but this is not considered rude—it's just part of the culture.
Don’t be afraid to speak up: In Israel, it's expected that employees, regardless of position, will share their opinions openly. Team members are encouraged to challenge ideas and provide input, even to senior management.
Flat Hierarchy
Hierarchy in the Israeli workplace tends to be more relaxed compared to many Western cultures. Employees often engage directly with their bosses, and it’s not uncommon to address senior leaders by their first names.
Initiative is highly valued, and employers expect employees to be proactive and to take ownership of their projects.
Work-Life Balance and Shabbat
Israel has a Sunday to Thursday workweek, with Friday being a half-day or day off for most people to prepare for Shabbat (Sabbath). Many businesses close early on Friday, especially in more religious areas.
Shabbat is observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening, and during this time, public transport and many services are unavailable, especially in more observant areas like Jerusalem.
Flexible Work Arrangements
Israeli workplaces, particularly in the tech sector, offer flexible working hours and remote work options. This flexibility allows for a good work-life balance, especially in cities like Tel Aviv, where the startup scene embraces a more modern and relaxed work environment.
Dress Code
The Israeli dress code is often business casual, especially in high-tech and creative fields. Suits and ties are rare, even in more formal sectors like finance. However, in government roles or corporate law, you may encounter more formal dress standards.
7. Legal and Visa Requirements
If you're not making Aliyah under the Law of Return, you'll need to apply for a work visa to legally work in Israel. Here's a detailed breakdown of the visa requirements:
Work Visa Options
B/1 Work Visa (Expert Visa):
The B/1 Visa is for foreign professionals with specialized skills, typically in high-demand fields like IT, engineering, or medicine. To obtain this visa:
Your employer must sponsor you and prove that the position cannot be filled by an Israeli citizen.
The visa typically lasts between one and three years but can be renewed.
You may need to provide proof of qualifications, such as degrees or professional certifications.
Temporary Work Visa:
For those coming to Israel for internships or short-term work, there are temporary visas that allow work for up to one year. Programs like MASA or international internships often provide this visa for participants.
Aliyah and Citizenship
If you are eligible to make Aliyah under the Law of Return, you will receive Israeli citizenship and full work rights upon arrival. This process does not require a separate work visa, and you will have access to many benefits, including healthcare, housing assistance, and job placement services.
8. Apply for Jobs and Nail the Interview
Once you’ve identified job opportunities, it’s time to apply and prepare for the Israeli interview process, which may differ slightly from other countries:
Application Process
Tailor your CV to highlight the skills that match the job description. Employers in Israel appreciate applicants who can show how their experience will add value to the company.
Use Israeli job portals such as AllJobs, JobNet, LinkedIn Israel, and Secret Tel Aviv to search for positions and apply online.
The Interview Process
Israeli companies often use a multi-stage interview process, particularly in high-tech industries. Interviews may include technical challenges, problem-solving tasks, or group assessments.
Be prepared for direct questions: Israeli employers often ask very direct and practical questions. Expect questions about how you would handle specific work situations, and be ready to share concrete examples of your accomplishments.
Demonstrate initiative: Employers value employees who can think on their feet and take ownership of their work. Show that you are a problem-solver who can work independently when needed.
Follow-Up and Negotiation
After the interview, follow up with a thank-you email to reiterate your interest in the position. In Israel, it’s acceptable to be proactive in following up.
Salary negotiation is common in Israel, so be prepared to discuss your expected salary. Familiarize yourself with industry standards to negotiate confidently.
Finding a job in Israel involves understanding the job market, preparing a strong CV, leveraging networking opportunities, and mastering Hebrew skills. By adapting to the unique work culture, tailoring your applications, and using the resources available to Olim, you’ll be well-positioned to secure a job in Israel. Whether you’re entering the high-tech sector, education, or non-profits, Israel offers diverse opportunities for professionals from all backgrounds.