When you search for work in Madrid, you will see specific Spanish terms in job advertisements. This guide explains what the most common phrases mean.
What does “se ofrece contrato” mean?
It means a legal contract is offered. The phrase se ofrece contrato translates directly to “a contract is offered”.
In Spain, this statement confirms that the employer will register you with the social security system. It means the position is legal and paid on the books.
You should avoid any job offer that does not include a formal contract. Working without a contract is illegal and leaves you without labor protections.
Types of contracts in job offers
Spanish labor law is strict about contract types. Recent reforms require employers to use permanent contracts as the default.
Contrato indefinido
This is a permanent contract. A contrato indefinido (permanent contract) has no end date.
It is the most secure contract type. If the company dismisses you without a valid reason, they must pay you severance.
Contrato temporal
This is a temporary contract. A contrato temporal (temporary contract) has a specific end date.
Employers can only use these contracts for specific reasons. These reasons include seasonal peaks or replacing an absent worker.
Contrato fijo-discontinuo
This is a seasonal permanent contract. A contrato fijo-discontinuo (fixed-discontinuous contract) is for recurring seasonal work.
You are a permanent employee, but you only work during specific periods of the year. The hospitality and tourism sectors frequently use this contract type.
Terms for working hours and schedule
Job ads will always state the required hours. You will see these terms:
- jornada completa (full-time hours) : This usually means 40 hours per week.
- jornada parcial (part-time hours) : The ad should specify the number of hours per week.
- turno rotativo (rotating shifts) : Your schedule will change between morning, afternoon, and night shifts.
- incorporación inmediata (immediate start) : The employer wants you to begin working as soon as possible.
Terms for salary and compensation
Spanish job ads do not always list a specific salary range. Instead, they use these phrases:
- salario según convenio (salary according to the collective agreement) : The salary is set by the industry’s official pay scale.
- a convenir (to be negotiated) : You will discuss the salary during the interview process.
- salario bruto (gross salary) : This is your salary before taxes and social security are deducted.
What to check before signing a lease in Spain
Questions and answers
Can I work in Spain without a written contract?
No. It is illegal to work without a signed contract. Your employer must register you with the social security office on or before your first day.
What is the probation period in a contract?
It is a trial period. This is called the período de prueba (probation period). During this time, you or your employer can end the contract without notice.
Does a contract guarantee a visa?
No. A job contract is required to apply for a work visa, but the visa is not guaranteed. The government must still approve your application.
What is a precontrato?
A job offer letter. A precontrato (pre-contract) is a signed agreement before the official contract is ready. It is legally binding for both parties.
