I recently attended a bookstore lecture on this very topic, given by Drs. Ron and Caryl Krannich, authors of the "International Jobs Directory" and "Jobs for People Who Love to Travel." Both books are in their third editions and are chock full of resources about why, where and how to look for overseas work, whether it be short or long term.
For someone wanting a rewarding short term gig of a few months to a year, the Kranniches recommend teaching English. You don't have to be a teacher already to teach English overseas; however, if you are an educator you're ticket is practically written for you
Though this approach may sound a bit risky, most that have done it say the best way to get a teaching job is to be in the country and approach a school in person with your resume. Keep in mind that most overseas schools require at least a Bachelor's degree for their English teachers, and several also want a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certificate. There are several places to go on the Internet to learn about teaching abroad. One of the best web sites is Dave's ESL Café (www.eslcafe.com). Most search engines will also come up with a good array of TEFL schools and informational sites if you enter TEACHING + ABROAD.
Other less involved (and less rewarding) short term work includes everything in what the Kranniches call the "gray market" - illegal work berry picking, waiting tables, bartending, etc. Some employers overlook work permits to fill needed vacancies for short periods. If you can find these jobs, they'll likely pay you enough to remain in the country you're visiting. If you're really frugal, you might earn enough to buy a ticket to your next destination.
Longer-term (and legal!) options for working abroad can usually be found with U.S.-based companies, the government or non-profit organizations. According to Ron Krannich, most of these jobs are based in Washington, D.C. In the international contracting field alone, 70 percent of the firms reside in the nation's capitol.
The problem with Washington D.C., says Krannich, is that the city is heavily networked.
