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How to Say "employed" in Spanish

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empleado

/em-pleh-AH-doh//em.pleˈa.ðo/

adjectiveB1general
Use 'empleado' as an adjective when referring to something that has been utilized, occupied, or spent, like time or resources.
A smiling person dressed in neat business clothes standing confidently and holding a closed briefcase, symbolizing the state of having a job.

Examples

El tiempo empleado en este proyecto fue mínimo.

The time used (or spent) on this project was minimal.

Las técnicas empleadas son muy avanzadas.

The techniques used are very advanced.

Él está empleado en una gran compañía de tecnología.

He is employed at a large technology company.

Agreement is Key

As an adjective, 'empleado' must change its ending to match the noun it describes in both number (singular/plural) and gender (masculine/feminine). Example: 'la herramienta empleada' (the tool used).

Origin as a Verb Form

'Empleado' is the 'past participle' of the verb 'emplear' (to use/to employ). This means it can also be combined with 'haber' to form perfect tenses: 'Hemos empleado mucho esfuerzo' (We have used a lot of effort).

Forgetting Agreement

Mistake: “Saying 'las horas empleado' (incorrect agreement).”

Correction: It must agree with 'horas' (feminine plural): 'las horas empleadas'.

colocado

/koh-loh-KAH-doh//koloˈkaðo/

adjectiveB2general
Use 'colocado' as an adjective to describe a person who has a job or is in a specific position, often implying a degree of stability or suitability.
A person wearing a professional uniform and a name tag, smiling while holding a toolbox.

Examples

Mi hermano por fin está colocado en una buena empresa.

My brother is finally employed at a good company.

verbA2general
Use 'contratar' as a verb when the action is about a company or person hiring someone for a job.

Examples

Mi jefe contrató a tres personas nuevas el mes pasado.

My boss hired three new people last month.

Adjective vs. Verb Usage

Learners often confuse 'empleado' and 'contratar'. Remember that 'empleado' (as an adjective) describes a state of being utilized or a person having a job, while 'contratar' is the action of hiring someone. 'Colocado' is also an adjective, but specifically refers to a person being in a job position.

Related Translations

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