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Please introduce yourself

I am Jose Rey Jr. Salvio, married, 3 kids. 

I spent almost half of my life, studied university, worked, and got married in Cebu City, Philippines. I completed my Bachelors Degree in Computer Science at the University of the Philippines Cebu. I immediately got a job as a Software Engineer and worked for the same company for around 10 years. I have developed a strong expertise in full-stack software development, using Java as my main programming language. I have designed and built reliable, and secure network applications for various clients and industries, such as the UK social care system, Board Governance Solutions, and recently for the telecom industry.

What brought you to Austria?

I came across details about Austria from the ABA website workinaustria.com which highlights the top quality of life, most specifically for families. Since, I have a growing family, and I value most my family, I decided to take a step to come here in Austria. All others, such as a good transport system, healthcare, and amazing views come after that.

How did you find a job in Austria? What is the difference between working in Austria and working in the Philippines?

I recall using the talent hub portal of ABA, and eventually being able to connect with my current employer Beyond Now, and then pushed through with the job application through LinkedIn. It was the only employer in Austria, that I sent my application and got an offer after the initial interview.

ABA is always there throughout the whole process, and very helpful to answer all questions and provide information regarding the immigration process, about working and living in Austria. Special shoutout to Ana, Stephanie, Veronika for their kind assistance!

Searching for an apartment was a challenge, as I had to do it myself. Good thing there was Milestone (student residences) which allows me to book a stay while I am still abroad.

The residence permit application was as smooth as possible, the major hurdle was to get through the requirement of the Philippine government, because direct hiring is banned, and employer has to coordinate with POLO Milan for the necessary documentation needed.

The first weeks in Beyond Now were very organized, and challenging! I was assigned a Buddy, which helped me get a quick start, and also gave me new learnings. He, Martin, is also very friendly and accommodating, which I really appreciate.

It was also thrilling, because the first month is the probation period, and it will be the deciding factor if I will be able to continue with my career in Austria.

I am very happy for the current working conditions, such as the work-life balance having 40 hours workweek and being able to take half of Friday off. Overtime is also frowned upon. Coming from the Philippines, this is totally unique. Also, it's not very common to bring alcohol (when there are celebrations) in the office. So, having beers in the office refrigerator is also a new thing to me.

 

How is living in Austria?

There would always be a freizeit to enjoy the time and appreciate the family God has given me. The work flexibility, number of holidays per year, and all the benefits a family can receive, show how Austria maintains its high quality of life. Although, there are lots of challenges, with integration, encounters with people not being so considerate, and the high cost of living. I have researched about Austria that much before I moved here, so I already know about the tap water that you can drink, apartments usually unfurnished.

There are things, that only when I moved here, know about, such as extensive waste segregation, and some cultural things such as consecration of herbs during the feast of the assumption of Mary.

How could ABA help you?

ABA has such comprehensive resources to help with the job search, and information regarding living and working here in Austria. From gathering documents (with a OneDrive) ; to having someone to contact and respond promptly to any questions from residence permit application to about living and working in Austria. As I am living in Graz, which has way fewer residents as with Vienna, it is a challenge to get through only with English (such as the police station).