Although the official unemployment rate in Kyrgyzstan is only 1.8%, and the average gross salary in the country in January 2025 was 39,342 KGS (around 450 USD), the real conditions in the labor market differ significantly from these figures. Officially, salaries are rising — they have increased by 16.9%  over the past year, and by 9.6% when adjusted for inflation — but many job seekers still struggle to find employment with decent pay and clear terms.

To understand which professions are truly in demand, the Akchabar editorial team analyzed popular job websites and Instagram pages. It turned out that about 90% of all job postings are from Bishkek, and the list of the most sought-after specialists remains consistently the same month after month. Here's who can easily find a job today — and how much they can expect to earn.

Sales consultants

Nearly every fifth job posting is related to the search for sales assistants in shopping malls. Employers are especially looking for women aged 18 to 28, preferably not students — as the schedule is described as “from morning till evening.” Requirements include conversational Kyrgyz and Russian, as well as “sales skills.” Salaries vary, but most commonly range from 25,000 to 35,000 KGS per month, with possible sales bonuses.

Waiters

Small and medium businesses, including cafés and restaurants, remain the backbone of the economy. In a city like Bishkek, where there aren’t many leisure options, people tend to gather in such venues — for dates, business meetings or even to work. Waiters can earn from 1,500 KGS per shift, and the schedule is often flexible enough to combine with studies, making this job especially popular among students.

Couriers

In the age of deliveries — from food to online shopping — the courier profession is especially relevant. The main requirements are knowledge of the city and access to transportation (a bicycle, scooter or car). Earnings depend on the number of orders, but on average, couriers make 40,000 KGS or more, with the typical monthly income around 55,000 KGS.

Sales representatives and administrators

This job is for those who are good at communication and sales. Administrators are most often needed in fitness clubs, beauty salons, restaurants and at reception desks in business centers. Salaries start at 35,000 KGS and can reach up to 80,000 KGS, depending on the schedule and responsibilities.

SMM-specialists

Despite the growing demand for digital specialists, SMM remains undervalued. Companies are looking for a “creative content specialist” who can film and edit videos, manage social media accounts and write texts. However, salaries often start at just 15,000 KGS — sometimes even as low as 10,000 — although there is almost always an opportunity to work remotely and combine it with other projects.