Teach in Ecuador

Options for teaching in Ecuador

Teaching English in Ecuador is possible in private language schools as well as universities, although the latter will require higher qualifications. Usually, teaching English in language institutes does not require previous experience, although it is certainly an asset that can lead to higher-paying teaching jobs. Teaching at the university level usually requires previous experience.

Certified teachers can also apply to teach in Ecuador’s public schools or private international schools. A teaching license is always required in these institutions.

Salaries in Ecuador will vary dramatically based on qualifications. Teachers without experience or a TEFL certificate can find work in language institutes, although these teaching jobs generally pay approximately $4 – 5 USD per hour (this is a modest but livable salary in Ecuador). However, qualified teachers can expect to earn more than this in public or private schools, some of which will also provide benefits such as accommodation.

Teach in Ecuador – Hiring

Peak hiring for English teaching jobs in Ecuador occurs in February or March, with another hiring season in July – August. Teachers should keep an eye on the Teach Away job board for all current opportunities.

Qualifications to teach in Ecuador

In order to teach English in Ecuador, teachers do not necessarily need a TEFL certificate or previous experience, although having one or both will open up many opportunities for higher-paying jobs. Inexperienced teachers are also strongly recommended to take a TEFL course in order to prepare them for the demands of teaching English abroad.

Teachers in public or private schools will be required to hold a teaching license in their home country and will usually need to demonstrate 1 – 2 years of previous teaching experience as well.

Visas for teachers in Ecuador

Once a job offer has been extended, schools will usually work with teachers to prepare the necessary documentation to obtain a working visa in Ecuador.

Housing in Ecuador

Housing in Ecuador is inexpensive, with apartments outside of major cities generally costing no more than around $200 USD per month. Even in larger cities such as Quito, teachers can usually find single housing for approximately $200 – $300 per month.

Many international schools will include housing as a contract benefit for teachers.

Things to do in Ecuador

This small country is jam-packed with sights, adventure, and travel opportunities. When arriving in Quito, keep in mind that the city’s altitude of 9,350 feet (2,800 meters) will require some adjustment. The Old City (Centro Histórico) is located in Quito’s center and is the area to explore for colonial-era architecture, plazas, and cafes.

Outside of the city, Ecuador boasts an incredible variety of landscapes, climates, and cultural areas to explore. Teachers can spend a vacation in small Andean villages, where colorful town centers sit in a backdrop of spectacular mountain scenery. Trek through the Amazon to discover toucans, monkeys, sloths, and a diverse array of other creatures, some of which can be observed from canopy towers offered by rainforest lodges.

For those looking for a beach experience, Ecuador has plenty to choose from, each with its own atmosphere. Salinas boasts dry weather and a weekend party scene, while about an hour north, the quiet town of Olón offers greener seaside hills and a calmer environment. Meanwhile, Manabí province’s beautiful Puerto Lopez gives travelers the chance to take day-long boat trips to the nearby Isla de la Plata.

Many private schools in Ecuador require applicants to possess a TEFL certificate. The University of Toronto’s TEFL Online Certificate can help you become a leading candidate for some of the top Ecuadorian private school positions.

Register for a teacher account to apply for teaching jobs in Ecuador.