Jobs in Tanzania that pay well for both locals and foreigners 2025
Tanzania is renowned for its wildlife safaris, majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar’s turquoise beaches. But beyond tourism, it’s also emerging as a hotspot for skilled foreign professionals seeking career opportunities in East Africa. With the expansion of both public and private sectors, there’s increasing demand for expertise across multiple industries.
Whether you’re planning to relocate to Tanzania or already living in East Africa, knowing which sectors offer lucrative employment can be a game-changer. This 2025 guide explores the highest-paying jobs in Tanzania for foreigners, required qualifications, salary expectations, and how to land these roles.
Why Tanzania is a Great Place for Foreigners to Work
Tanzania’s economy has maintained steady growth over the last decade, averaging about 6% annually. Government investment in infrastructure, healthcare, technology, education, and tourism has created an attractive environment for skilled professionals globally.
With strong political stability, a strategic location in East Africa, and a relatively low cost of living compared to Western nations, Tanzania offers foreign professionals the chance to live comfortably and save more.
Top 10 High-Paying Jobs in Tanzania for Foreigners
1. Oil and Gas Industry
Tanzania has become a major energy player with natural gas discoveries in Lindi and Mtwara. International energy giants like Shell, Equinor, and ExxonMobil are active in the region.
In-demand roles:
- Petroleum Engineers
- Project Managers
- Geologists
- Offshore Technicians
Estimated salary: TZS 18,000,000 – 30,000,000/month
Requirements: Degree in engineering or geology, offshore certification, and 5+ years of experience.
Read Also: Kenya and Tanzania Safaris 2025 Compare Fact.
2. Natural Resources and Mining
As Africa’s fourth-largest gold producer, Tanzania is rich in minerals like gold, diamonds, coal, and tanzanite. Global firms such as Barrick Gold and AngloGold Ashanti actively recruit expatriates.
In-demand roles:
- Mining Engineers
- Environmental Managers
- Geotechnical Experts
- Compliance Officers
Estimated salary: TZS 14,000,000 – 26,000,000/month.
3. Healthcare and Medicine
Due to a shortage of local specialists, Tanzania welcomes foreign doctors, especially in cardiology, oncology, and surgery. Private hospitals such as Aga Khan and Regency Medical Centre are key employers.
In-demand roles:
- Specialist Doctors
- Surgeons
- Radiologists
- Hospital Administrators
Estimated salary: TZS 12,000,000 – 25,000,000/month
Note: Must register with the Medical Council of Tanganyika.
4. Construction and Engineering
With large-scale projects like the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), demand for civil and structural engineers is growing.
In-demand roles:
- Civil Engineers
- Project Managers
- Quantity Surveyors
- Electrical Engineers
Estimated salary: TZS 10,000,000 – 22,000,000/month
Top employers: China Civil Engineering Corp, CRDB Contractors, Government PPPs.
5. Nonprofit and International Organizations
Foreigners can find some of the highest-paying roles in NGOs and international agencies like the UN, USAID, and the World Bank.
In-demand roles:
- Program Managers
- M&E Officers
- Public Health Experts
- Development Economists
Estimated salary: TZS 16,000,000 – 35,000,000/month
Perks: Tax-free income, housing, education, relocation support.
6. Education (Schools and Universities)
International schools and universities, especially in Dar es Salaam and Arusha, often hire foreign educators.
In-demand roles:
- STEM Teachers (Math, Physics, Computer Science)
- ESL Instructors
- University Lecturers
- Curriculum Developers
Estimated salary: TZS 6,000,000 – 15,000,000/month
Requirements: Master’s/PhD and international teaching certification.
7. IT and Telecommunications
With digital transformation accelerating, the tech sector offers many roles for skilled foreign workers.
In-demand roles:
- Software Developers
- Network Engineers
- Cybersecurity Analysts
- IT Project Managers
Estimated salary: TZS 8,000,000 – 20,000,000/month
Note: Remote and hybrid work models are increasingly common.
8. Tourism and Hospitality
Tanzania’s tourism industry remains strong, especially in Zanzibar, the Serengeti, and Kilimanjaro regions.
In-demand roles:
- Hotel General Managers
- Safari Operations Directors
- F&B Managers
- Travel Consultants
Estimated salary: TZS 5,000,000 – 12,000,000/month
Bonuses: Often performance-based depending on tourist season.
9. Legal and Compliance
With an influx of foreign investment, companies require legal experts familiar with both local and international law.
In-demand roles:
- Corporate Lawyers
- Compliance Managers
- Contract Negotiators
- Regulatory Officers
Estimated salary: TZS 10,000,000 – 20,000,000/month
Advantage: Bilingual (Swahili & English) and international firm experience.
10. Aviation and Maritime Logistics
Major projects like Julius Nyerere International Airport expansion and Dar es Salaam port development are opening new doors.
In-demand roles:
- Airline Pilots
- Aircraft Maintenance Engineers
- Marine Engineers
- Port Operations Managers
Estimated salary: TZS 15,000,000 – 28,000,000/month
Perks: Travel, health, and tax benefits
Work Permits & Legal Requirements
All foreign workers must obtain a work permit from the Tanzania Immigration Department—Class B, C, or D depending on the profession.
Required documents:
- Valid passport
- CV and academic certificates
- Police clearance
- Medical certificate
- Job offer/contract
Note: Employers must prove the role cannot be filled by a Tanzanian national.
How to Find High-Paying Jobs in Tanzania
- Use Online Platforms:
LinkedIn, UNJobs, ReliefWeb, Devex - Network Locally:
Attend professional meetups in Dar es Salaam or Arusha - Polish Your Resume:
Highlight East African experience - Engage Local Recruiters:
Many firms hire through local agencies - Start with Volunteer Roles:
Especially in NGOs, volunteering can lead to full-time offers
Living in Tanzania as a Foreigner: What to Expect
- Cost of Living:
TZS 3,000,000 – 5,000,000/month is sufficient for a comfortable lifestyle. - Housing:
Rent ranges from TZS 700,000 – 2,500,000 in expat-friendly areas. - Healthcare:
Quality private hospitals in Dar es Salaam and Arusha. - Safety:
Urban areas are relatively safe; remain vigilant at night. - Language:
English is widely used in business, but Swahili is beneficial socially.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can foreigners work in Tanzania without a permit?
No. A valid work permit is mandatory for all foreign workers.
Q2: What is the average salary for foreigners in Tanzania?
Foreign professionals typically earn between TZS 10,000,000 and 25,000,000 per month, depending on the industry.
Q3: What are the best cities for job opportunities in Tanzania?
Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Dodoma. Zanzibar is also prominent for hospitality jobs.
Q4: Is it difficult for foreigners to get jobs in Tanzania?
No—especially if you have specialized skills in demand like engineering, medicine, or development.
Q5: Do international organizations assist with relocation?
Yes. Most large organizations offer relocation packages including flights, housing, and family support.
Conclusion
From oil rigs in Mtwara to classrooms in Arusha, Tanzania offers a wide array of high-paying job opportunities for foreigners. With the right qualifications, strategic job hunting, and an understanding of local regulations, professionals can thrive in East Africa’s rising economy.
