Finding unskilled work in Norway?

BTM

I'm thinking of moving to Stavanger with my girlfriend... she is applying for jobs with various oil companies and could possibly get a job secured before moving (a lot of the oil jobs there don't seem to initially require speaking Norwegian).

We'd both love to move there but I've no idea what my chances of getting work would be like.

I was wondering if anyone could tell me what it's like looking for unskilled work in Norway when you don't speak the language? I'm doing a free basic Norwegian course online - but I'm sure that falls far short of conversational Norwegian. I would pay for a language course once there if we did get to go.

(I do have some skills and experience, but I'm being realistic and know none of it is relevant - for now at least. I am currently finishing a degree in TV&Film but know that I wouldn't get a job in that area there. I also have a number of years IT experience but no formal qualifications in that.)

I've researched what I'd have to do to be eligible to work there etc., so not looking for any further details on that, but if anyone can advise me based on personal experiences it would be greatly appreciated

Thanks,

Brian

RATM

The vast majority of Norwegians speak fluent english but you'll need to speak Norwegian if you're looking for customer facing roles.

You shouldn't have any problems finding work in fish processing as it is hard and smelly work. You should learn Norwegian asap though to get ahead, especially if the move is long term.

You could get lucky and find a skilled job where they'd allow you to use english. Construction sites, etc might be the way to go for this but its all about finding the right foreman, etc.

Tabnabs

Realistically your chances are quite slim. Not helped by the fact the Stavanger is a relatively small and expensive town (even by Norwegian standards).

I highly recommend this website for detailed information and it would be worth asking them for advice. http://www.stavangerexpats.com/