Finding a job in Oslo

Whether you're a professional, student, or someone seeking part-time work, this guide will help you navigate the job market in Oslo.

Job advertisements

The majority of jobs advertised in Oslo are posted on one or more of the major platforms, including NAV, FINN.no, and LinkedIn. You’ll also find listings on smaller Norwegian sites, international platforms, and industry-specific portals.

Job ads are often duplicated across platforms but usually link back to the original listing—either on a main site or the company’s own website. If you’re interested in a specific company, check their website directly or send an open application to express your interest.

Job ads in Norwegian and English

Looking for English-speaking jobs in Oslo? Many companies post listings in both Norwegian and English, and some are open to international applicants.

Job listings may be in Norwegian, English, or both. Understanding language expectations can help you decide whether to apply. However, Even if a job asks for fluent Norweigan, it's often worth applying if you're otherwised qualified. You can state your interest in learning the language in the cover letter. Many companies can be flexible.

Applying for jobs in Norway

NAV (the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration) has a lot of relevant information about writing applications, CVs, and help preparing interviews in their guide for job seekers:

Job platforms

Most common platforms for jobs in Norway:

  • Arbeidsplassen.no – A public job board managed by NAV (Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration). Offers filters by location, industry, and job type. You can apply directly or save searches.
  • FINN.no – Norway’s largest classifieds site. Includes job listings with filters for location, contract type, and working language (Norwegian or English). Tip: save your favorite searches and turn on notifications to get emails when new jobs are posted!
  • LinkedIn – Widely used by companies in Oslo to post jobs and find candidates. Great for networking and discovering international-friendly roles.

Sector-specific and other job boards:

  • Oslo Municipality – Public sector jobs in health, education, and administration. Listings are mostly in Norwegian.
  • Oslopolitan – Regional job board featuring openings from employers in the greater Oslo area, often targeting international talent.
  • EURES– European Commission’s job portal with listings and info about working conditions in Norway.

  • Europass – EU platform offering tools for finding work or study opportunities across Europe.

Jobs in the startup community:

Norway has a growing startup scene, especially in the tech sector, and is ranked among the top 30 startup ecosystems globally. Many startups actively seek international talent and offer roles in product development, marketing, and engineering.

  • TheHub.io – A Scandinavian platform for startup jobs in tech, product, and marketing.
  • Startupmatcher – Recruitment platform focused on the Nordic startup ecosystem.
  • Startuplab – An incubator and early-stage investor with job listings from tech startups.

Jobs in academia and research:

Oslo is home to world-leading research institutions, particularly in fields like renewable energy, health and life sciences, and artificial intelligence. Researchers and PhD candidates can find opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects and collaborate with international experts.

  • Euraxess – A European platform for researchers and academics. Includes PhD programs and research positions in Norway.

Be aware of international platforms that duplicate Norwegian job ads and translate them to English, which can sometimes be more confusing than helpful. It is always good to check if you can find where the job was initially posted, as well as the language requirements for it.

Recruitment agencies

Working with a recruitment agency ("rekrutteringsbyrå") can be a great way to enter the job market in Oslo. Agencies vary in size and focus, and many specialize in recruiting international candidates. Some offer English-language support and have experience placing skilled workers, professionals, and executives. And, it doesn’t hurt to have several dialogues going at the same time!

How to find recruitment agencies:

  • Gulesider.no – Norway’s online phone book or "yellow pages."
  • Online web sarch – Try search terms like "international recruitment Oslo", "recruitment for foreign workers", or "overseas recruitment Norway"

Here is a list of some recruitment agencies in Oslo that provide services in English:

  • Adecco – Recruits skilled workers in construction, engineering, auto mechanics, and hospitality.

  • Manpower – One of Norway’s largest recruitment agencies. Offers a wide range of roles across industries.

  • Collett Search – Specializes in recruiting for executive and specialist roles.

  • Avant Garde Search – Focuses on recruitment for technology companies.

  • Amby – Recruitment partner for startups and tech companies.

Networking

Networking plays a key role in finding a job in Norway. Alongside supporting your job search, networking provides an opportunity to meet like-minded people and make friends!

There are many ways to network in Oslo:

  • Attend meetups, conferences, and industry events
  • Reach out to professionals for informal coffee chats
  • Join language cafés (språkkafe), volunteer organisations, and community groups
  • Use LinkedIn to connect with people in your field

Additional resources

Use the platforms and tips above to explore opportunities, connect with others, and take confident steps toward employment in Oslo.