Are you an ESL teacher considering teaching abroad? If yes, you should definitely consider teaching English in Ecuador. Although the size of the country is comparably smaller than neighbouring South American countries, Ecuador is well-known for its rich culture and diverse landscapes, and wonderful nature.
English Teaching Jobs in Ecuador
Ecuador is located at the top of the South American continent. What does this mean? Not only will you be able to easily travel to countries in South America if you teach English in Ecuador, but you will also be able to travel to countries in Central America with minimal effort! A few amazing countries near Ecuador are Colombia, Brazil, and Costa Rica, which are all great travel destinations for ESL teachers.
Continue reading to learn about English teaching jobs ins Ecuador.
Teaching English in Ecuador
Most of the English teaching jobs in Ecuador are concentrated in major cities like Quito, Guayaquil, Latacunga, and Cuenca. It is a good idea to first search for ESL jobs in Quito as it is the capital city of Ecuador. Also, it is South America’s oldest capital. Thankfully, the historical old towns are well-preserved and are great places to visit. Other than these cities, you will probably have a tougher time finding a job.
The best time to look for an English teaching job in Ecuador is from February to March or during the summer. These are the primary hiring periods. If you are searching for job positions at an international company located in Ecuador, you will be able to find jobs online. However, if you are looking for more local teaching jobs, you are recommended to go to Ecuador first. It is easier to find a job when you are already in the country. So, it is a smart idea to have some savings to use as start-up money.
How to Teach ESL in Ecuador
Requirements for Teaching English in Ecuador
In order to secure a decent ESL job in Ecuador, you should hold either one of TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA certificates (or equivalent other). It is also a strength to have a university degree but not all employers look for it. If you have a TEFL certificate and prior teaching experience, that’s good enough in Ecuador. Don’t have a TEFL certificate yet? No worries! Consider taking TEFL courses online before searching for ESL jobs in Ecuador. Also, unlike in many other countries, non-native speakers can also teach English in Ecuador.
English Teaching Jobs in Ecuador
Following are the different types of English teaching jobs in Ecuador. Take a look at each job opportunity and see which will be the best if you choose to teach English in Ecuador.
Public School
Public schools are probably the least appealing option on the list. However, it will be easier to get a job at this type of institution if you don’t have a secondary education degree or prior teaching experience. It is a great place to begin your ESL teaching career.
International School
International schools generally pay more than public schools. However, this means they will look for more from applicants. In most cases, you will need a university degree to apply for a job at an international school in Ecuador.
Private Language Academy
The required qualifications for private language academies tend to be lower. However, the hourly salary also is lower than in other jobs. However, it can be the starting point of your career. You can use the time at a private language academy as the first step to building your teaching experience.
University
The best-paying job on this list is university teaching jobs. Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Quito is one university that you can look into when finding a job. They generally have the best condition and salary but require the most qualifications. If you have a TEFL certificate, teaching experience, and a bachelor’s degree (or higher), then you are qualified for English teaching jobs in Ecuador universities.
Private Tutoring
Once you establish a network in Ecuador, giving private lessons is a great way to make extra cash. The downside of private tutoring is that you will not be able to find students at the beginning of your teaching abroad journey as you don’t have a network in Ecuador (If you know someone in Ecuador, awesome!)
There is a high demand for English teachers among the business community and university students in Ecuador. Although Ecuador’s cost of living is one of the lowest in South America, the average salary of ESL teachers isn’t very high. Therefore, private lessons can greatly supplement your monthly earnings.
Volunteering
You can also choose to volunteer as an English teacher and give back to the community. One of the most popular volunteering English teaching programs used to be Worldteach. However, Worldteach Ecuador is not offered anymore. Fortunately, there are a number of other volunteering programs available in Quito and the Galapagos. Volunteering is also a great way to gain teaching experience for new ESL teachers. You will be able to teach all types of age groups in the local community.
Salary for ESL Jobs in Ecuador
The average salary for English teachers in Ecuador is between 500 and 800 USD per month. The specific numbers really depend on the type of institution you work at. However, it is definitely not enough to live a luxurious life in Ecuador. Therefore, if that is the lifestyle you want, private tutoring is the best solution. You will be able to charge a higher hourly salary, save cash, and make enough to travel around the amazing Central and South American countries.
Things to Consider When Teaching in Ecuador
When you move to a new country, it is crucial to beware of the culture. You will be surprised how different cultures can be especially when you visit a country located on a different continent. Ecuador, and most of the other Latin American countries, still have a very patriarchal and machoism culture.
Furthermore, because the primary language in Ecuador is Spanish, it is a good idea to learn a little bit before you move to the country. Although English is considered to be widely spoken in Ecuador, being able to speak at least a few words or sentences will make you more welcome to the community. Plus, Spanish is one of the best languages to learn.
English Teaching Jobs in Ecuador
FAQ About Teaching English in Ecuador
Here is a quick guide to some commonly asked questions about being an English teacher in Ecuador.
What do I need to teach in Ecuador?
At most, you will need a TEFL certificate (or other equivalent certificates), prior teaching experience, and a university degree. However, unless you choose to teach English at a university, you won’t need to meet all three qualifications.
Do schools in Ecuador teach English?
Students in Ecuador are required to learn English. However, there is a lack of qualified teachers. Therefore, as an ESL teacher, you will be able to make a positive impact on the community while building your teaching career!
How much can English teachers make in Ecuador?
The average salary in Ecuador for English teachers is approximately between $500-800 (monthly). It is lower than what teachers make in North America. However, it is enough to cover the basic cost of living in Ecuador.
What is the cost of living in Ecuador?
Although it specifically depends on one’s lifestyle, you can keep your cost of living as low as $400-$600 if you take on the local lifestyle. If you think you’re going to spend more, you always have the option to give private tutoring lessons for supplementary income.
Should I Teach English in Ecuador?
Deciding whether to teach English in Ecuador depends on various factors and personal preferences. Here are some aspects to consider:
- Job Opportunities: Ecuador has a demand for English teachers, particularly in major cities like Quito and Guayaquil. There are opportunities to teach in language schools, universities, and private institutions.
- Cultural Experience: Teaching in Ecuador offers a rich cultural experience. You can immerse yourself in the country’s diverse indigenous cultures, explore its natural wonders such as the Galapagos Islands and the Amazon rainforest, and indulge in traditional cuisine.
- Language Exposure: While Spanish is the primary language spoken in Ecuador, teaching English allows you to interact with locals and learn about their language and culture. It can also provide an opportunity to improve your Spanish skills.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Ecuador is generally lower compared to many other countries. It can provide an affordable lifestyle and the opportunity to explore the country during your free time.
- Work Environment: Ecuadorian schools and language centers may vary in terms of facilities, resources, and teaching methodologies. Research potential employers to ensure a supportive work environment that aligns with your teaching style.
- Visa Requirements: Check the visa requirements to teach English in Ecuador. Depending on the length of your stay and your citizenship, you may need a work visa or another form of legal authorization to work as an English teacher.
- Safety Considerations: While Ecuador is generally considered safe for travelers and expatriates, it’s important to research the safety situation in the specific city or region you plan to teach in. Stay informed about any travel advisories issued by your government.
- Professional Development: Teaching in Ecuador can provide opportunities for professional growth. Engage in teacher training programs, collaborate with local educators, and gain experience working with a diverse student population.
Teach English in Ecuador: Join the Conversation
What are your thoughts on teaching English in Ecuador? Is it the right place for you, or are you looking for another destination? If that’s the case, consider South American countries like Argentina, and Chile. Leave a comment below and let us know what you think. We’d love to hear from you.
