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Welcome to your comprehensive guide to the Papua New Guinea job market. Finding the right job or candidate requires solid data. We provide the latest statistics on employment, salaries, and economic indicators, empowering you to make informed decisions about your next career step or recruitment strategy in Papua New Guinea.
Job Market Overview: Employment Statistics in Papua New Guinea
Understanding Papua New Guinea's job market is crucial for both job seekers and employers. The country's current employment indicators show:
| Key Metric | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Total Population | 8.947.024 residents |
| Employment Rate | 47.2% (below OECD average) |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.5% (very competitive market) |
These Papua New Guinea employment statistics reveal a tight labor market where candidates should highlight specialized skills. The 47.2% employment rate suggests moderate job availability across sectors.
Living & Working in Papua New Guinea: Economic Insights
Before relocating or applying for jobs in Papua New Guinea, consider these key economic factors:
| Economic Indicator | Value | Comparison to U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Average Monthly Salary | 600,00 USD | 13% of U.S. average (significantly lower) |
| Purchasing Power | 16.7 | moderate compared to U.S. (100) |
With 16.7 purchasing power, salaries in Papua New Guinea provide adequate but budget-conscious lifestyles. The average monthly salary of 600,00 USD is particularly attractive in the Agriculture sector.
Top Industries & Job Opportunities in PG
Papua New Guinea's thriving job market spans these key sectors:
| Leading Industry | Agriculture (growing at 5% annually) |
| Emerging Sector | Mining (25% of workforce) |
| Service Sector | Services (60% of GDP) |
| Major Employers | Oil Search, Newcrest Mining, Bank South Pacific (hiring year-round) |
Job seekers should focus on Agriculture for the most opportunities, while Mining offers growth potential. Major companies like Oil Search, Newcrest Mining, Bank South Pacific frequently post openings for skilled professionals.
Data Sources & Methodology
The statistical data (Population, Employment, Economic Indicators) used in this guide is compiled from the following authoritative sources:
- Employment & Economic Data: World Bank Indicators
- Cost of Living & Salaries: Numbeo Cost of Living Database
- Proprietary Data: Analysis derived from expert interviews and Cityjobs.info internal salary research.
Disclaimer: Data Volatility Note
We strive to update all statistics and figures annually. However, due to the nature of global economics, data like employment rates, exchange values, and average salaries can change rapidly due to political events, economic shifts, or unforeseen crises. Always verify critical figures with local governmental or financial institutions before making major decisions.
CityJobs bridges the gap between job seekers and employers in Papua New Guinea, creating a more accessible and inclusive job market for all.

1. What's the employment situation in Papua New Guinea?
With a population of 8,947,024 and an employment rate of 47.2%, Papua New Guinea offers a competitive job market. The unemployment rate currently stands at 2.5%.
2. Which are the top companies in Papua New Guinea?
The leading employers in Papua New Guinea include Oil Search, Newcrest Mining, Bank South Pacific. These companies offer diverse opportunities across multiple sectors.
3. How far does salary go in Papua New Guinea?
The purchasing power ratio in Papua New Guinea is 16.7, meaning cost of living should be carefully considered when evaluating job offers.
4. How can I find jobs in Papua New Guinea?
Search our listings filtered for Papua New Guinea. Focus on industries where Oil Search, Newcrest Mining, Bank South Pacific are active, and consider that the 47.2% employment rate suggests moderate competition for positions.
5. What should I know about working in Papua New Guinea?
With Oil Search, Newcrest Mining, Bank South Pacific as major employers, the job market tends to favor Mining and Services.