5 Best Websites to Find Expat Jobs in Surabaya

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Finding the right job as an expat can be challenging, especially when you are new to a city.

Surabaya, Indonesia’s second-largest city, is home to a growing number of international companies, manufacturing hubs, and educational institutions that often seek foreign professionals.

The good news is that there are several online platforms designed to make your job search easier and more effective.

In this article, we highlight the 5 best websites to find expat jobs in Surabaya.

Whether you are looking for opportunities in teaching, engineering, management, or the service industry, these platforms can connect you with trusted employers and help you start your career journey in East Java.

1. Jobstreet

JobStreet is one of the most popular job portals in Indonesia, widely used by both local and international companies.

For expats in Surabaya, it offers a large number of job postings across various industries, from education and hospitality to IT and manufacturing.

The platform is user-friendly, with search filters that allow you to narrow down jobs by location, salary, and specialization.

Job alerts can also be set up to notify you when new opportunities match your profile.

Because of its broad reach, JobStreet is often the first stop for many expats seeking employment in Surabaya.

Pros:

• Wide range of job postings across multiple industries.
• User-friendly interface with helpful search filters.
• Email alerts for new job opportunities.
• Trusted by many companies, including multinational firms.

Cons:

• High competition for popular job categories.
• Some listings may lack detailed descriptions.
• Most job posts are in Bahasa Indonesia, which may be challenging for some expats.

Related article: 5 Best Websites to Find Expat Jobs in Indonesia

2. Indeed

Indeed is a global job search engine that is also widely used in Indonesia, including Surabaya.

For expats, it serves as a reliable platform to explore opportunities across different sectors such as education, technology, and business services.

The site aggregates postings from company websites, recruitment agencies, and other job boards, giving users a broad overview of the job market.

You can upload your resume, apply directly through the platform, and even research salary trends.

Its simple design and global presence make Indeed a familiar tool for many expats looking for jobs in Surabaya.

Pros:

• Large database of job listings from multiple sources.
• Simple and easy-to-use interface.
• Ability to upload your CV for direct applications.
• Salary information and company reviews are often included.

Cons:

• Some postings may be duplicated across other platforms.
• Job descriptions can sometimes be brief or unclear.
• Limited number of positions explicitly targeted to expats.

3. Glassdoor

Glassdoor is well-known among expats because it goes beyond just listing jobs.

In addition to vacancies, the platform offers insights into company culture, employee reviews, and salary ranges.

For those seeking jobs in Surabaya, Glassdoor can help expats evaluate not only the role but also the work environment and compensation.

Many international companies and established local firms in Indonesia post their openings here, making it a solid choice for professional opportunities.

With its focus on transparency, Glassdoor helps expats make informed decisions before applying.

Pros:

• Access to company reviews and employee feedback.
• Salary data that helps with realistic expectations.
• Useful for researching company culture before interviews.
• Listings often include international companies.

Cons:

• Job postings are fewer compared to platforms like Jobstreet or Indeed.
• Some reviews may be outdated or biased.
• Limited entry-level opportunities for expats in smaller cities.

Related article: Remote Work Opportunities in Indonesia: Top Sectors, Benefits, and Challenges

4. ExpatRoasters.com

ExpatRoasters.com is a niche platform that caters specifically to the expat community in Indonesia, including Surabaya.

Unlike broader job portals, it focuses on opportunities that are more relevant to foreigners, such as teaching, hospitality, digital services, and managerial roles in multinational companies.

The site also provides resources and articles that help expats adjust to local culture, housing, and daily life.

This makes it not just a job board but also a community hub for newcomers.

For expats who want tailored opportunities and lifestyle guidance, ExpatRoasters.com can be a valuable resource.

Pros:

• Tailored to expats, with relevant job listings.
• Offers cultural tips and lifestyle articles for newcomers.
• Strong focus on hospitality, education, and multinational sectors.
• Community-driven with resources beyond jobs.

Cons:

• Smaller database compared to mainstream platforms.
• Fewer listings in specialized industries.
• May not update as frequently as global job portals.

5. Linkedin

LinkedIn is a global professional networking platform that also serves as a powerful job search tool for expats in Surabaya.

Many international companies and local firms post openings directly on LinkedIn, ranging from entry-level to executive positions.

The platform allows you to connect with recruiters, join industry groups, and showcase your professional profile to potential employers.

You can also set up job alerts specifically for Surabaya, ensuring you don’t miss relevant opportunities.

For expats, LinkedIn is not just a job board; it is a networking hub that can help open doors to new career prospects.

Pros:

• Direct access to recruiters and company pages.
• Networking opportunities through groups and connections.
• Job alerts tailored to location and industry.
• Suitable for a wide range of roles from junior to executive levels.

Cons:

• High competition for popular positions.
• Some postings may require connections or insider referrals.
• Less focused content specifically for expats compared to niche platforms.

Conclusion

Finding a job as an expat in Surabaya can be challenging, but with the right platforms, the process becomes much easier.

From broad job portals like JobStreet and Indeed to specialized sites like ExpatRoasters.com and GlobalExpatRecruiting.com, there are plenty of resources to help you discover opportunities that match your skills and experience.

LinkedIn also offers a powerful way to network with recruiters and explore professional openings across the city. 

By leveraging these websites, expats can increase their chances of finding the right role and start building a successful career in Surabaya.

If you are also planning to settle in Surabaya, finding a home close to work and essential amenities can make life much more convenient. 

You can explore property options on Rumah123 to find the right neighborhood and housing that fits your lifestyle as an expat.