1. What are the current job market trends in Jordan?

The current job market trends in Jordan are constantly changing due to a variety of factors, including the country’s economic situation, the global job market, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

1. Decrease in overall employment: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the job market in Jordan, leading to a decrease in overall employment opportunities as many businesses have been forced to close or downsize.

2. Increase in remote work: As a result of the pandemic, there has been an increase in remote work opportunities with many companies shifting to virtual operations. This has opened up job opportunities for skilled workers who can work remotely.

3. Growth in specific industries: Despite the overall decrease in employment, certain industries like healthcare, technology, and e-commerce have seen growth and demand for skilled workers.

4. Gender gap persists: There is still a significant gender gap in employment opportunities and wages in Jordan. According to a report by UN Women, women are significantly underrepresented in certain industries and face discrimination when accessing jobs.

5. High youth unemployment: Youth unemployment remains high at around 30%, making it challenging for young people to enter the job market.

6. Emphasis on digital skills: With an increasing focus on technology and digitization globally, there is a growing demand for workers with digital skills such as coding, data analysis, and digital marketing.

7. Remote education and training opportunities: With universities moving towards online learning and training programs becoming more accessible, individuals have more opportunities to develop new skills or improve their existing ones.

8. Growing gig economy: Due to limited traditional employment opportunities, many people are turning to freelance or contract work as a source of income.

9. Continuing economic challenges: Jordan has been facing economic challenges even before the pandemic due to high national debt and dependence on foreign aid. This can impact job creation and overall salary levels.

10. Focus on local talent development: To reduce reliance on foreign labor, the government of Jordan has been investing in programs to develop the skills and capabilities of its local workforce.

2. How has the job market in Jordan been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic?

The job market in Jordan has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to data from the Department of Statistics, the unemployment rate in Jordan rose from 19.2% in late 2019 to 24.7% in the third quarter of 2020.

1. Economic slowdown: The pandemic has caused a significant economic slowdown in Jordan, resulting in many businesses shutting down or reducing their workforce. This has led to layoffs and reduced hiring across various industries, causing a rise in unemployment.

2. Travel restrictions and border closures: Jordan heavily relies on tourism, which was severely affected by travel restrictions and border closures during the pandemic. This has resulted in job losses for many workers in the tourism sector, such as hotel staff, tour guides, and transportation services.

3. Impact on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs): SMEs make up a large portion of the economy in Jordan, and many have been forced to close due to lockdown measures and reduced consumer demand. This has led to job losses and reduced opportunities for job seekers.

4. Remote work: With many businesses shifting towards remote work to comply with social distancing measures, some industries have been able to continue hiring remotely. However, this has also made it challenging for those who rely on face-to-face interactions for their jobs.

5. Uneven impact on different sectors: While some industries have been severely affected by the pandemic, others have seen an increase in demand for their products/services. For example, e-commerce retail companies have experienced growth during this time while traditional retail stores suffer.

6. Impact on migrant workers: Migrant workers make up a significant portion of the labor force in Jordan, particularly in the construction sector. With border closures and travel restrictions, many migrant workers were unable to return to work after visiting their home countries, leading to both personal and economic hardships.

Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the job market in Jordan, resulting in increased unemployment and reduced job opportunities. It is expected that the recovery process will be slow, and it may take some time for the job market to return to pre-pandemic levels.

3. What industries are thriving in the job market of Jordan?

1. Information Technology – Jordan has a rapidly growing IT sector, with many international companies setting up offices in the country. The government also offers incentives and support for the growth of this industry.

2. Healthcare – The healthcare industry in Jordan is thriving, with high-quality medical facilities and skilled professionals. The country is also becoming a hub for medical tourism, attracting patients from neighboring countries.

3. Tourism – Jordan’s historical sites such as Petra, Jerash, and the Dead Sea attract a large number of tourists every year. This creates job opportunities in the hospitality and service industries.

4. Education – The education sector in Jordan is also growing, with more investment in schools and universities. There is a demand for qualified teachers and administrative staff in both public and private institutions.

5. Renewable energy – In recent years, there has been an increase in government initiatives to promote renewable energy sources, leading to job opportunities in this field.

6. Agriculture – Despite being a desert country, agriculture is an important sector in Jordan’s economy. There are job opportunities in fields such as irrigation, farming technology, and food processing.

7. Banking and finance – With a stable economy and a business-friendly environment, Jordan’s banking and financial sector is experiencing significant growth.

8. Construction – There is ongoing development and construction projects taking place across the country, providing employment opportunities for engineers, architects, and skilled laborers.

9. Manufacturing – The manufacturing industry in Jordan includes various sectors such as textile production, pharmaceuticals, and chemical production.

10. Creative industries – In recent years, there has been an emergence of creative industries such as design, advertising, film production, fashion design etc., creating job opportunities for young talent in these fields.

4. Are there any emerging or growing industries in the job market of Jordan?

Yes, there are several emerging or growing industries in the job market of Jordan. Some of these include:

1) Information Technology: Jordan has a thriving IT sector, with many companies offering services in software development, digital marketing, and e-commerce. The country’s government has also been investing in building technology parks and providing incentives to attract international tech companies to set up operations in Jordan.

2) Renewable Energy: With a strong focus on sustainability and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, Jordan has seen a significant growth in renewable energy projects. This has opened up job opportunities for professionals in fields such as engineering, project management, and research and development.

3) Tourism: Tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors in Jordan’s economy, with the government promoting the country as a top destination for cultural and adventure tourism. This has led to an increase in job opportunities in hospitality, tour guiding, and travel agencies.

4) Healthcare: The healthcare industry is rapidly expanding in Jordan due to the rising demand for quality medical services. There is a high demand for healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and allied health workers.

5) Education: The education sector is another growing industry in Jordan, driven by an increasing population and the government’s efforts to improve access to education for all. Job opportunities can be found in schools, universities, and educational institutions.

6) E-commerce: With more consumers turning towards online shopping, e-commerce has become a significant contributor to the economy of Jordan. This has created job opportunities in areas such as digital marketing, logistics management, and customer service.

7) Agriculture: Despite its arid climate, agriculture plays an important role in Jordan’s economy thanks to innovative techniques like hydroponics and vertical farming. As the country faces challenges such as water scarcity and food security concerns, there is potential for growth in this sector.

5. How does the unemployment rate in Jordan compare to other countries?

According to data from the World Bank, the unemployment rate in Jordan was 14.56% in 2019, which is higher than the global average of 5.44% and higher than the average in Middle Eastern and North African countries (10.28%).

Compared to countries with similar economic development, Jordan’s unemployment rate is relatively high. For example, neighboring countries such as Israel (3.91%), Lebanon (6.05%), and Saudi Arabia (6%) have lower unemployment rates.

However, Jordan’s unemployment rate is lower than some other developing countries such as South Africa (28.74%) and Brazil (11.92%). On the other hand, it is significantly higher than developed countries like the United States (3.72%) and Japan (2.42%).

Overall, Jordan’s unemployment rate falls somewhere in the middle when compared to other countries around the world.

6. What is the average salary range for different job roles in Jordan?

The average salary range for different job roles in Jordan can vary greatly depending on the industry and company, but here are some estimates based on data from various sources:

1. Senior Manager/Director: $4,800 – $14,000 per month
2. IT Manager: $3,500 – $9,500 per month
3. Engineering Manager: $4,200 – $10,000 per month
4. Sales Manager: $3,500 – $6,000 per month
5. Human Resources Manager: $2,800 – $5,000 per month

6. Senior Accountant: $1,600 – $3,500 per month
7. Marketing Executive: $1,900 – $4,200 per month
8. Civil Engineer: $1,700 – $4

7. Are there any specific skills or qualifications that are highly sought after in the job market of Jordan?

Some specific skills and qualifications that are highly sought after in the job market of Jordan include:
1. Fluency in Arabic and English
2. Technical skills like software development, coding, and data analysis
3. Experience in project management and leadership roles
4. Cultural awareness and sensitivity, especially for roles working with refugees or international organizations
5. Business acumen and knowledge of the local market
6. Advanced degrees in fields such as engineering, finance, or medicine
7. Soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and adaptability
8. Knowledge of relevant laws and regulations related to the industry or field
9. Certifications or training in specialized areas such as digital marketing or human resources management
10. International work experience or proficiency in additional languages may also be valuable for certain industries.

8. How do local businesses and international corporations contribute to the job market of Jordan?

Local businesses and international corporations both play a significant role in the job market of Jordan by creating employment opportunities for the country’s workforce.

1. Local businesses: Local businesses, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), are a major contributor to the job market of Jordan. These businesses operate in various industries such as tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, and services, providing diverse job opportunities for Jordanians. They employ a large number of people across different skill levels, from low-skilled laborers to highly educated professionals.

2. International corporations: International corporations also contribute significantly to the job market of Jordan. Many multinational companies have operations in Jordan and offer employment opportunities in sectors such as banking and finance, IT and technology, telecommunications, and transportation. These companies bring new technologies and expertise to the country, creating high-quality jobs for skilled workers.

Moreover, international corporations also engage in joint ventures with local businesses or outsource work to them, leading to indirect job creation in the form of supply chain activities and support services.

3. Investments: Both local businesses and international corporations invest in infrastructure projects, such as construction of factories and offices or developing tourism facilities like hotels and resorts. These investments not only create direct jobs during the construction phase but also contribute to economic growth over time by boosting demand for goods and services provided by other businesses.

4. Skills development: Both local businesses and international corporations provide training programs for their employees, which helps in developing skills that are in demand globally. This enhances the overall employability of Jordanian workers.

In summary, local businesses provide employment opportunities across various industries while international corporations bring new investments, technologies, and consumer demand to boost economic growth in Jordan. Overall these factors contribute to a dynamic job market with diverse opportunities for individuals looking for employment in Jordan.

9. Is there a gender wage gap present in the job market of Jordan?

As of 2021, there is a significant gender wage gap present in the job market of Jordan. According to a study by the International Labour Organization (ILO), women in Jordan earn approximately 30% less than men for equal work. This is due to several factors, including gender discrimination, traditional roles and expectations placed on women, and lack of laws and enforcement to ensure equal pay for equal work.

In Jordan, women make up a significant portion of the workforce, accounting for about 28% of all employees. However, they are largely employed in low-paying industries such as education and health care, while men dominate higher-paying sectors like finance and engineering.

Additionally, women face challenges in career growth and opportunities for advancement due to societal norms and biases. They also tend to have lower negotiation power when it comes to salary discussions.

The Jordanian government has taken steps to address this issue by introducing laws that promote gender equality in the workplace. For example, the Labor Law prohibits discrimination based on gender in wages and benefits. However, these laws are not always effectively enforced.

Efforts are being made by stakeholders and organizations to raise awareness about this issue and advocate for fair pay practices. However, it will take continued efforts from both the public and private sectors to close the gender wage gap in Jordan’s job market.

10. Have there been any recent changes to labor laws or policies affecting the job market in Jordan?

Yes, there have been some recent changes to labor laws and policies in Jordan that may affect the job market. These include:

1. Amendments to the Labor Law: In September 2019, the Jordanian government amended the Labor Law, introducing new measures to protect workers’ rights. These include greater protection for domestic and migrant workers, restrictions on working hours, and mandatory social security contributions for all workers.

2. New minimum wage: In January 2018, the government increased the minimum wage by 10%, from JD190 to JD210 per month. This was followed by further increases in July 2019 and January 2020, bringing the minimum wage up to JD260 per month.

3. Work permit fees: In April 2019, a new system of work permit fees was introduced, which aims to regulate the number of foreign workers in Jordan and encourage employers to hire local talent. The fees vary depending on the nationality of the worker and type of employment.

4. Expanding job opportunities for women: The Jordanian government has implemented various initiatives to increase female participation in the workforce, including offering tax incentives for companies that hire more women and promoting flexible working arrangements.

5. Job creation programs: To address high unemployment rates in certain regions and sectors, the government has implemented several job creation programs in partnership with international organizations such as the World Bank and International Labour Organization.

6. Efforts to reduce discrimination: The Ministry of Labor has announced plans to address discrimination against non-Jordanian workers by ensuring equal pay for equal work and establishing a hotline for reporting workplace discrimination.

7. Regulations for freelancers: In May 2020, a new law was passed requiring freelancers in certain professions (such as writers, artists, designers) to register with their respective syndicates or professional associations.

Overall, these changes aim to create a more fair and inclusive job market in Jordan and provide better protection for workers’ rights.

11. Are there any government initiatives or programs supporting job creation and employment growth in Jordan?

Yes, there are several government initiatives and programs supporting job creation and employment growth in Jordan. Some examples include:

1) Support to the private sector through measures such as tax cuts, reduction of financial institution fees, and loans at low interest rates.
2) Encouraging foreign direct investments through incentives and facilitation services.
3) Implementation of economic development zones and industrial areas to attract investments and create job opportunities.
4) Youth employment programs through training and internships in various sectors.
5) Microfinance programs for small businesses and entrepreneurs.
6) Support for start-ups through incubators, funding, and mentorship programs.
7) Skill development programs for unemployed individuals, especially in agriculture, tourism, and healthcare sectors.
8) Incentives for companies to hire women and people with disabilities.
9) Promotion of labor-intensive industries such as construction and manufacturing.
10) Public works projects to provide jobs for individuals in rural areas.

12. How do educational institutions and workforce training programs prepare individuals for the job market of Jordan?

Educational institutions and workforce training programs in Jordan aim to prepare individuals for the job market through a combination of academic education, practical training, and professional development opportunities. Here are some ways they do this:

1. Relevant curricula: Educational institutions and training programs in Jordan design their curricula to meet the needs of the local job market. This means that courses are tailored to prepare students for specific careers by providing them with the necessary knowledge and skills.

2. Emphasis on vocational training: Many educational institutions in Jordan offer vocational or technical education programs that focus on hands-on training in specific industries such as engineering, healthcare, or hospitality. These programs equip students with the practical skills needed to enter the job market immediately after graduation.

3. Partnerships with industries: To ensure that their graduates are ready for employment, many educational institutions collaborate with various industries to provide internship opportunities, guest lectures, and industry-specific projects. This allows students to gain real-world experience and understand the demands of the job market.

4. Career counseling services: Most educational institutions have career counseling centers that help students identify their strengths, interests, and career goals. They also provide guidance on resume writing, job search strategies, and interview preparation.

5. Workforce development programs: In addition to traditional educational institutions, there are various workforce development programs in Jordan that provide specialized training for high-demand jobs such as information technology (IT), English language teaching, or renewable energy. These programs equip individuals with specific skills needed for certain jobs.

6. Soft skill development: Industries in Jordan value soft skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and adaptability in employees. Therefore educational institutions incorporate these skills into their courses or offer separate workshops or trainings to help students develop these essential competencies.

7. Engaging with employers: Many educational institutions have strong connections with employers and regularly organize job fairs or employer-led workshops where students can interact with potential employers and learn about job opportunities.

8. Encouraging entrepreneurship: To combat the limited job market in Jordan, many educational institutions and training programs promote entrepreneurship and provide resources to support individuals in starting their own businesses. This includes business incubators, startup competitions, and mentorship programs.

9. Government initiatives: The Jordanian government also takes steps to prepare individuals for the job market by investing in various initiatives such as promoting vocational education, providing financial support for training programs, and implementing policies to attract foreign investment and create new job opportunities.

Overall, educational institutions and workforce training programs in Jordan work together to provide a well-rounded education that equips individuals with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed for the job market. Additionally, they foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptability to help individuals succeed in a rapidly changing job market.

13. What is the overall employment rate and turnover rate in Jordan?

The overall employment rate in Jordan is 52.5%. The turnover rate, also known as the employee turnover rate, is not publicly available and varies depending on the specific industry and company.

14. Is remote work becoming more common in the job market of Jordan?

Yes, remote work has become more common in the job market of Jordan, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Companies have had to adopt remote work policies and technologies to ensure business continuity and safety of their employees. This trend is expected to continue even after the pandemic, as many companies have realized the benefits of remote work such as cost savings, increased productivity, and access to a larger pool of talent. Moreover, Jordan has a young and tech-savvy workforce that is well-equipped for remote work arrangements.

15. How competitive is the job market currently for recent graduates?

The job market can be quite competitive for recent graduates depending on the field they are looking to enter. For some industries, such as technology or healthcare, demand for recent graduates may be high and competition may be less intense. However, in other industries where there is a larger pool of applicants, such as finance or marketing, the job market may be more competitive for recent graduates. It is important for recent graduates to have relevant skills and experience that make them stand out in the job market. Seeking internships and building a strong professional network can also increase their chances of landing a job.

16. Do expats have equal opportunities in landing jobs compared to locals in Jordan?

Expats in Jordan do have opportunities to land jobs, especially in industries such as finance, technology, and education. However, local candidates may be given preference for certain positions. In many cases, expats are required to have a work permit or sponsorship from their employer in order to legally work in Jordan. It is recommended for expats to research the job market and industry regulations before pursuing employment opportunities in Jordan.

17. Are there any particular areas or regions within Jordan with a better job market than others?

Yes, there are certain areas and regions within Jordan that have a stronger job market than others. The capital city of Amman, for example, has a large number of job opportunities in industries such as banking, finance, tourism, and IT. Other cities like Aqaba and Irbid also have a growing job market due to their proximity to special economic zones and universities. Additionally, the Dead Sea region is known for its luxury hotel industry, providing job opportunities in hospitality and tourism. Rural areas often offer more agricultural and manual labor jobs.

18 .What role does networking and personal connections play in finding employment opportunities in Jordan?

Networking and personal connections play a significant role in finding employment opportunities in Jordan. This is because the job market in Jordan values personal relationships and referrals, making it important to build a strong network of contacts.

In Jordanian culture, relationships and trust are highly valued, and people often prefer to do business with those they know and trust. Employers also tend to give preference to candidates who come recommended by someone they know or have worked with before.

Here are some ways in which networking and personal connections can help in finding employment opportunities in Jordan:

1. Access to the hidden job market: In Jordan, many job openings are not advertised publicly, but instead, shared through personal networks. By building strong connections with professionals in your desired field, you may hear about hidden job opportunities that are not published online or in newspapers.

2. Referrals from friends and family: Personal connections can introduce you to potential employers or recommend you for job openings that match your skills and experience. In fact, many companies in Jordan offer employee referral programs where current employees can refer qualified candidates for open positions.

3. Building relationships with industry professionals: Attending professional events, career fairs, and conferences allows you to interact with people working in your industry of interest. These networking opportunities provide a platform to showcase your skills and learn about potential job openings from the people you meet.

4. Gaining insider knowledge: Through your network of professional contacts, you can gain insights on the company culture, hiring practices, and job requirements of different organizations. This information can help you tailor your resume and cover letter for specific companies or roles.

5. Personal recommendations carry weight: In Jordanian culture, personal recommendations hold significant weight and are seen as an endorsement of one’s character and skills. Having a strong network of professionals who can vouch for you can improve your chances of securing an interview or getting hired.

In conclusion, networking and personal connections are crucial for finding employment opportunities in Jordan. By building and maintaining strong relationships, you can tap into the hidden job market, get referrals from trusted sources, and gain insider knowledge about potential employers.

19. Are internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level positions readily available for those seeking entry into certain industries within Jordan’s job market?

It may depend on the industry, but in general, internships, apprenticeships, and entry-level positions are available in Jordan’s job market. Many companies and organizations offer internship programs to students and recent graduates to gain practical experience in their chosen field. Apprenticeships may be less common, but some industries such as construction and trade may offer this type of on-the-job training. Graduates seeking entry-level positions can find opportunities in various sectors like banking, IT, marketing, and more. Overall, while competition for these positions may be high, there are opportunities available for those looking to break into specific industries within Jordan’s job market.

20. What challenges do foreign workers face when trying to enter or find employment within the job market of Jordan?

1. Visa Restrictions: Foreign workers face strict visa restrictions and require sponsorship from an employer in order to enter Jordan for work purposes. This can make it difficult for individuals to find employment opportunities and can also lead to exploitation by employers.

2. Competition for Jobs: The job market in Jordan is highly competitive, with a large number of both skilled and unskilled workers vying for limited job openings. This makes it challenging for foreigners to secure employment, especially in sectors that are already saturated with local workers.

3. Language Barriers: Arabic is the official language of Jordan, and while English is widely spoken in urban areas, many employers still prefer employees who are fluent in Arabic. This can be a challenge for foreign workers, particularly those with limited language skills.

4. Discrimination: Foreigners may face discrimination when seeking employment in Jordan, particularly if they come from countries that are politically or culturally at odds with the country.

5. Lack of Awareness of Job Opportunities: Many job openings in Jordan are not advertised publicly, and instead rely on personal networks and connections for recruitment. Foreigners may not have access to these networks and thus miss out on potential job opportunities.

6. Differences in Employment Regulations: Foreign workers may face challenges navigating the complex labor laws and regulations governing employment in Jordan which differ from their home country. This can result in confusion or exploitation by employers.

7. Limited Job Opportunities: Certain industries such as banking, government, and security are restricted to Jordanian citizens only, limiting the job opportunities available to foreign workers.

8. Cultural Adjustment: Moving to a new country for work can be daunting for foreign workers who may struggle to adapt to the cultural norms and workplace culture in Jordan.

9. Cost of Living: The cost of living in Jordan can be high compared to other countries in the region, making it difficult for foreign workers to sustain themselves without proper compensation from their employers.

10.True job Security Issues: Foreign workers may experience job insecurity due to political and economic instability in the region, making it challenging to plan for the future.