Working here

Falkland Islanders are proud of their self-sufficient and resilient nature and this is also reflected in the culture of the workplace.

In contrast to many large public-sector organisations or corporations, you will need to be proactive and practical in your approach. To guide your professional decisions and personal conduct, you will need to combine use of existing Falkland Islands Legislation and the FIG Management Code with a healthy dose of pragmatism and common-sense. You will need to be comfortable in applying your judgement and have a real understanding of what ‘good’ looks like for your profession.

Decision-making can be both slow and fast. You will be encouraged to ‘get things done’ and apply your knowledge, skills and experience to make decisions which serve the people of the Falkland Islands as best we can. A key aspect of any job here is to manage your own and others expectations.

Passion, drive and initiative are all qualities you will need to overcome some of the challenges that remote island life can sometimes present. With supplies coming by sea on a monthly basis and weekly scheduled air freight services, a bit of forward-planning can overcome most logistical and operational matters that you may be faced with.

In an environment of full-employment, people can change jobs more frequently than elsewhere, where job security can be less predictable. With a high rate of labour mobility, institutional knowledge can be lost. This presents a number of challenges, potentially impacting upon service delivery and the development of services. You will need to build relationships quickly, listen and ask questions to gain a full understanding of the environment you are operating in and the challenges you may face.

Teacher
KEMH Carer

Our nurses welcome you to KEMH

As with any other employer, the Falkland Islands Government expects overseas contract officers to come here fully equipped to do the job they have come here to do. Continued professional development is important and you will be expected to and keep up to speed with advances in your own professional field.You will also need to be comfortable with living in close proximity with your colleagues and the people you serve. It is not unusual to live next door to a colleague or, for example, have children in a class that you teach living across the street. People are generally neighbourly and helpful, which is part of the charm of island living. However, this can present its own unique challenges and you will have to find a way to adapt to this aspect of island life.

We hope that this gives you a flavour of what life can be like working here, but the best way to find out is come and experience it yourself. If you have the professional drive, ambition and initiative, coupled with a proven track record of successful service delivery, then we certainly want to hear from you.

Our benefits

Whether you are an overseas contractor or local candidate, Falkland Islands Government offers a range of competitive benefits. The first four benefits are available for all employees. The other benefits (shown with a *) are specifically for overseas contractors and are designed to help you make the big move to join us here in the Falkland Islands and to support you with the transition at the end of your contract.

We’ve highlighted the key points below:

  • Salary

    Pay ranges are advertised in the job description. Actual salaries are dependent upon qualifications and experience of the successful candidate.

  • Annual Leave

    An entitlement of 30 days paid annual leave.

  • Public Holidays

    The Falkland Islands currently has nine Public Holidays throughout the year. You will also be entitled to two Government Holidays taken at Christmas time.

  • Gratuities*

    Gratuities are paid upon satisfactory completion of the contract. Typically 15-25% of basic salary.

  • Pension

    In the Falkland Islands, individuals aged 17-64 earning above a certain threshold must contribute to the compulsory state Retirement Pension Scheme, and employees can also opt into the defined contribution Falkland Islands Pension Scheme, which often includes employer contributions and allows for additional voluntary contributions.

  • Relocation Allowance*

    Your relocation allowance will contribute towards moving costs. Rates are based upon the number of dependents accompanying you and the location you are moving from.

  • Flights*

    You will receive flights to and from the Falkland Islands for you and eligible dependents at the start and end of your contract. Employees on longer contracts may also receive a mid-contract flight home or equivalent holiday allowance.

  • Housing & Starter Pack*

    A house will be made available for you to rent for the duration of your contract, with rents deducted from salary. Rents range from around £350 per month for a one-bed property, up to around £800 per month for a four-bed detached home. To help you settle in, a starter pack of basic household goods and a few groceries will be available for your arrival in the Falklands.

Download our comprehensive welcome guide

What to expect, and how to prepare for your new arrivals in the Falkland Islands.

Download welcome guide