US Journeyman Electrician
 

Hi there, can anyone help me or point in the right direction to find work overseas, preferably Dubai if possible, looks like a nice place to work & safe, I hold a US Journeyman's Electrical licence, had my own business there for many years (Boston) we came back about 8 years ago to put the kids to school here. Thanks

Re: US Journeyman Electrician
 

Unfortunately, there won't be much in the safe developed places, especially here in the Middle East.

Qatar is safe, but it's arguably not developed. And even then, you'll likely be competing against skilled Indians/Pakistanis/Sri Lankans who will be able to do the job for a lot less than what you'd be willing to accept.

I know it's been mentioned here a couple of times that there are Western companies offering electrical services to the better off areas that can afford it, but I think those markets are few and far between, and sewn up.

I'd say the best place to look would be Qatar. And even then, bear in mind that it has very little to do compared to Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

Re: US Journeyman Electrician
 

Hi Auz, I know what you mean, cheap labour is everywhere even in the skilled trades! I will have to keep trying & see what happens:fingerscrossed: I guess the western companies would be the safe bet, could you recommend any? much appreciated if you can, good luck to you & thanks again.

Re: US Journeyman Electrician
 

Ah, but competing with cheap labour here isn't like competing with a Mexican tradesmen in New York. It is engrained in the system here that blue collar work is done by south east asians on 150-200USD / month.

Management roles are the only way. Or set up your own business ripping off rich expats for AC repairs that cost double what they would in the west while getting the indians on 150USD/month to do the work.

Re: US Journeyman Electrician
 

If you have Managerial experience in H.V , M.E.P , Industrial Installation or O&G supervising a sub-continental workforce then you try Qatar or K.S.A.

Qatar still does employ a high degree of operational staff out in the field simply because the expertise needed just can't be got within certain nationalities in specific industries.

It's very specific here and you'll see lots of Western staff in overalls and in the field working , something that is quite alien in some of the other Gulf states . Q.P , Shell G.T.L , Ras Gas all employ large numbers of Western expat field supervisors / managers . The trouble is that you'll need a lot of experience in that specific field to warrant a position .