Computer related Jobs In Korea: Software/Web/Network/Database Consultant And Developer
Most expats in Korea work in the education field. A vast majority are teachers or working in the English industry. It’s not very common to meet foreigners working in other fields. Sure, there are many foreigners primarily from Southeast Asia, who work as unskilled workers in factories or other blue-collar jobs. But it’s rare to find foreigners from countries other than native English speaking countries, who are working as skilled professionals in Korea.
With the advent of multinational companies from Europe, China, India etc. seeing non-Korean faces around is becoming more common. I recently met a software developer from Western Europe and was intrigued to learn about their prospective of living and working in South Korea.
Therefore, I decided to explore more about the opportunities in Korea for individuals who do not want to work in the English industry. In this post, I will talk about IT/computer related jobs in Korea.
Kinds Of Jobs Available
There are a plethora of computer related jobs available in Korea. You can work as an Information System Consultant, Network Consultant, Database Consultant, Operating System Software Developer, Game programmer, Network programmer, Database Designer, Database Programmer, Database Administrator, Network Engineer, Network System Analyst, WAN Technician, Web Planner, Multimedia Materials Production Expert, Multimedia Editor, Web Engineer, Web Programmer etc.
Where To Find These Jobs
as the English teaching jobs and require a little more looking around. That being said, there are various sure fire ways to find these vacancies.
Recruiting Agencies: There are
various reputed recruiting agencies that can help you find a suitable position.
Internet: Most mid to big size companies post job openings on the Internet. There are some good job websites like: HiExpat, Job Korea, Gone 2 Korea, Craigslist etc. that you can check out. You can also visit the website of the companies and apply online.
Newspapers: Job postings are also advertised in newspapers. The Korea Herald, The Korea Times and The Seoul Times are some good English newspapers worth looking into.
Job Responsibilities
Depending on your job type the responsibilities may vary. For example, if you work as a Database Designer, you will determine, design and analyze a whole range of elements of a computer system such as input and output formats, data processing procedure, formats of database etc.
On the other hand, as a Software Developer you will be required to develop word processing software for companies or individuals. You will plan, develop, design and test a network by using your knowledge in software, hardware, and network equipment.
Working as an Information System Consultant you will be asked to develop and maintain tests and testing infrastructure for security software. Moreover, you will support other staff members in debugging and maintaining web applications and websites in order to ensure stability and productivity.
As a Network Engineer your main responsibility will be to provide application development and technical support for customer websites. If you are hired as a Multimedia Materials Production Expert, you will be expected to collaborate with graphic artists to develop web page graphics that support interactive, marketing-focused content. You will also be expected to participate in the technical design, development, testing and implementation of website enhancements.
The main job responsibility of a Database/Network consultant is to provide guidance and leadership. You will serve as a technical team leader. You will also be expected to participate in special projects as required.
Qualifications
Most jobs require candidates to have a Bachelors degree or higher. Bachelors Degree in Computer Science or a related technical discipline is preferred. Some places prefer individuals who have an equivalent combination of education, professional training or work experience.
You usually need a graduate degree and 2 years of experience to secure the necessary visa.
5 years of experience is needed if you don’t have a degree. With a graduate degree there is no need for work experience.
In addition, since you will be in a primarily Korean working environment, you need at least basic level of Korean communication skills.
Salary And Other Benefits
Depending on the company, your experience and skill set, you can make anywhere from 3 million KRW to 4 million KRW or higher. Other benefits may include company provided accommodations, national pension and health insurance.
Average salary range is 3 million KRW to 3.5 million KRW. However, if you work for a big company you may end up making more money.
There are sources on
the Internet that report discrepancies in payment within the company between employees from North America and employees from Asian countries. According to one report Indian, Chinese and Russian IT workers in a reputed multinational company were making less money than their Korean, American and Canadian counterparts.
I highly recommend researching and getting ample information about salary and working hours before you accept any contracts.
Working Hours
Average working hours are 40 hours a week. It’s basically 8 hours a day, 5 days a week. Although, just like any other office job in Korea, expect to work more than 8 hours everyday or at the minimum 2-3 days a week. Also, at times you might be asked to work on the weekends.
Visa Sponsorship
Companies provide visa sponsorship for E-7 visa. Most companies also offer paperwork and relocation assistance to the candidates that are hired.
Industrial programmer checking computerized machine status with laptop computer
Opportunities exist in areas such as technology and IT. However, there is often strong competition from home graduates for jobs. Furthermore, language barriers and tight social and business circles may also limit opportunities.
I highly recommend taking Korean language classes before applying for work. Moreover, a good social network of Korean friends and contacts can greatly improve your chances.
Happy Job Hunting!