Working in Aberdeen

The Granite City is one of the most prosperous cities in Scotland, and expats working in Aberdeen will be taking part in continuing to build the cornerstone of the Scottish economy. Internationally recognised as a business centre with several globally competitive industries, Aberdeen has excellent academic and research capacities and is home to a growing, highly skilled workforce.

Job market in Aberdeen

The city’s economy was traditionally based on granite, fishing and textiles, but these industries are no longer as prominent as they once were. Over the years, Aberdeen’s economy has modernised, and traditional industries have given way to energy, agriculture, property, and the oil industry, all of which have been significant contributors to the city’s economic boom.

Energy is the key driver of the local economy, employing roughly 10 percent of workers in the city. Aberdeen is recognised as one of the leading cities in Europe in oil and gas, a sector that attracts many skilled expats to the city each year.

The property industry has also benefitted from the growth and development of Aberdeen’s economy. As the city continues to grow, there is a sustained demand for both commercial and industrial property. This has made Aberdeen a popular destination for property developers and investors.

Useful links

• Brand Scotland – Careers in Scotland

Finding a job in Aberdeen

Most expats who relocate to Aberdeen do so with a firm employment offer already in place. It is a great city for expats with relevant skills and qualifications to build a career for themselves. Expats who move to Aberdeen often find themselves staying far beyond the end of their initial contract, as there are plenty of opportunities for career progression in the city.

Those without a job offer can search for opportunities online, though the best approach is typically networking.

Non-EU expats moving to Aberdeen to take up employment must hold a work permit to work in Scotland legally. For expats from outside the EU, the employer will be required to prove why they were unable to hire a candidate from within the EU for the position.

Useful links

• Reed
• Scotland Jobs

Work culture in Aberdeen

On the whole, Scots are a friendly bunch, and this is true of the workplace, too. Meetings usually start with small talk and pleasantries, and it's best not to rush the process, but instead enjoy getting to know coworkers.

Be sure to stick to safe, neutral topics during small talk and be aware of local points of sensitivity – for example, confusing or conflating the English with the Scottish is unlikely to earn friends. 

Scotland is also a family-friendly country; many companies offer flexible working hours to ensure employees can attend to their family responsibilities. This may not be the case at all companies, though, and is at an employer's discretion.