Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Fiji have made significant contributions to both the Fijian economy and the betterment of their families back home in the Philippines. With opportunities spanning from hospitality to skilled trades, Filipinos bring a strong work ethic and adaptability to the Fijian workforce. Moreover, their remittances play a crucial role in bolstering the Philippine economy, underpinning the financial stability of numerous households.
Also Read: How to Become an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW)
Culturally, OFWs have become ambassadors of Filipino heritage, sharing the bayanihan spirit and traditional cuisine with the Fijian communities. Despite the challenges of homesickness and cultural adjustment, they manage to forge a sense of camaraderie among fellow expatriates, creating a Filipino community that supports one another. The resilience and perseverance of Filipino workers in Fiji are a testament to their commitment to improve their lives and the lives of their loved ones.
Table of Contents
Here are the top 10 jobs in Fiji that Filipinos might find interesting.
1. MASON TILE SETTER
A Mason Tile Setter is a professional skilled in setting tiles for decorative wall, mural, and floor designs. They measure surfaces, cut and fit tiles, and mix cement, glue, or adhesives. Qualified Mason Tile Setters should have a high school diploma or GED, experience, communication, carpentry, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.
2. CARPENTER FINISHING
Carpenter Finishing is a professional who enhances carpentry projects by trimming, shaping, and installing wood finishes. They prepare fixtures, take accurate measurements, and interpret construction plans. They design, build, and install cabinets, carry out leveling and shimming operations, measure and install wooden flooring, and provide varnishing and staining services. Qualified Carpenter Finishing should have a high school diploma or GED, have an eye for detail, physical strength, manual dexterity, and visualization skills.
3. INSTALLER GYPSUM
An Installer Gypsum is a professional who installs gypsum boards, also known as drywall, in buildings. They measure and mark the area, cut the board to the right size, fasten it to wall frames, and cut openings for electrical outlets and fixtures. They may also provide ongoing support, maintenance, and repairs. Qualified Installer Gypsum should have a high school diploma or GED and hands-on experience.
4. FINISHING CARPENTER/GYPSUM FINISHER
A Finishing Carpenter/Gypsum Finisher is a professional who enhances the appearance of a wooden structure by trimming, shaping, and installing wood finishes. They use manual or power tools to prepare finishing fixtures, take accurate measurements, and interpret construction plans. They design, build, and install cabinets for remodelling, carry out levelling and shimming operations, measure and install wooden flooring, and provide varnishing and staining services. Qualified professionals should have a high school diploma or GED, have an eye for detail, physical strength, manual dexterity, and visualization skills, and be proficient in using finish nail guns, hand planes, and chop saws.
5. BEATER PANEL/PAINTER
A Beater Panel/Painter is a professional who repairs and repaints car bodywork, assessing damage, and repairing scratches and dents. They use various tools for disassembling and assembling parts, perform spray painting, and ensure efficient repair. Qualified individuals should have a high school diploma or GED, experience with body repair kits, spray painting, and welding equipment, and operate mechanical, hydraulic, and metalworking equipment.
Also Read: How to Use POEA Helpdesk Online
6. DRIVER TRAILER
A Driver Trailer is a professional who drives tractor-trailer combination trucks to deliver products, livestock, or materials. They supervise freight loading and unloading, secure freight, and maintain trip logs. Qualified candidates should have a high school diploma or GED, a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), and a professional truck driving course certificate. They should have extensive experience, an incident-free driving record, and solid knowledge of truck and trailer maintenance. They should have advanced route planning skills, be able to work long hours, and have strong organizational and time management skills.
7. FABRICATOR ALUMINUM
Fabricator Aluminum is a professional who constructs and assembles products made from aluminum and other metals using techniques like casting, forming, forging, and welding. They create products and structures for various industries due to aluminum’s lightweight, sturdy, and corrosion-resistant properties. Fabricators work in factories or workshops, using machines, tools, and fabricating methods. Qualifications include a high school diploma or GED, technical skills in fabrication, and an apprenticeship. Soft skills, such as awareness and communication, can also be beneficial.
8. OPERATOR EXCAVATOR
An Operator Excavator is a professional who operates heavy machinery for excavation and moving materials. They coordinate efforts, maintain equipment, and perform manual labor tasks. Qualified candidates should have a high school diploma or GED, at least 3 years of experience, good English verbal and written skills, and a valid driver’s license for Heavy Equipment. They must also have experience in Road Construction and Final Trimming/Leveling work. The demand for Operator Excavators in Fiji is high due to the constant need for new buildings and infrastructure.
9. WELDER CERTIFIED
A Certified Welder is a professional who assembles and repairs metal components using heavy machinery, utilizing high heat to melt the metals into shape. They read blueprints, take measurements, determine appropriate welding equipment, set up components, operate angle grinders, align components, and weld components in various positions. They repair machinery, test and inspect welded surfaces, and maintain equipment without compromising safety. Qualifications for a Certified Welder include a high school diploma or GED, proven experience, experience using various welding equipment and procedures, proficiency in English, and successful completion of an apprenticeship program. Professional certification, such as an AWS welding certificate, is a plus.
10. ELECTRICIAN CERTIFIED
A Certified Welder is a professional who assembles and repairs metal components using heavy machinery, utilizing high heat to melt the metals into shape. They read blueprints, take measurements, determine appropriate welding equipment, set up components, operate angle grinders, align components, and weld components in various positions. They repair machinery, test and inspect welded surfaces, and maintain equipment without compromising safety. Qualifications for a Certified Welder include a high school diploma or GED, proven experience, experience using various welding equipment and procedures, proficiency in English, and successful completion of an apprenticeship program. Professional certification, such as an AWS welding certificate, is a plus.
Also Read: List of POEA Services for Licensed Recruitment Agencies (LRA)
Video
Check out this video for more information about the cost of living in Fiji.
Summary
In conclusion, Fiji presents a wealth of opportunities for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) skilled in various trades. From Gypsum Installers to Certified Welders, the demand for skilled labor is strong, reflecting the country’s ongoing construction and infrastructure development. OFWs bring their technical skills, dedication, and professionalism to the Fijian workforce, contributing significantly to the nation’s growth while also pursuing rewarding career opportunities abroad. It is essential for these workers to possess not only the practical qualifications, such as a high school diploma or GED and relevant certifications, but also soft skills like communication and adaptability. The synergy between the skilled OFWs and the Fijian economy is a testament to the strength and resilience of the global workforce.