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How to find Job in Germany

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Germany, with its robust economy, elevated standard of living, and steady economic growth, stands out as a key player in Europe. Every year, a multitude of professionals worldwide actively seek avenues to relocate to this thriving nation. This article will delve into the strategies on how to secure employment in Germany and enhance your prospects of success.

How to Secure Employment in Germany:

 Exploring Opportunities and Advantages

Germany, as a prime destination for work and life, attracts a substantial number of individuals seeking professional opportunities. To comprehend the appeal of Germany, consider some statistics that shed light on its popularity for work and living conditions. Currently, approximately 10% of Germany’s population, roughly 8 million people, consists of immigrants, predominantly drawn to the country for employment purposes. Surprisingly, official statistics reveal a shortage of around a million workers across various specialties, with about 60% of employers facing a scarcity of skilled labor.

The demand for professionals in Germany spans a broad spectrum, with a notable need for medical staff at all levels, including highly experienced doctors and nursing personnel, as well as engineers and IT specialists. Furthermore, opportunities are available for individuals without higher education but possessing secondary specialized education. Professions such as locksmiths, mechanics, plumbers, machinists, drivers, and electricians are in high demand.

For specialists from Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and other non-European Union states, the prospect of relocating to Germany has significantly improved since March 2020. This improvement stems from an updated labor migration law in Germany, which abolished the previous requirement to conduct a competition among local specialists when hiring. This change ensures that both Germans and individuals from other countries now have equal employment prospects. Another positive alteration pertains to the work visa, which has expanded its eligibility criteria. Previously, only professionals with higher education could stay in Germany for six months to search for a job (Jobszone). However, this now extends to individuals with diplomas from intermediate-level educational institutions. It is crucial, though, that the diploma is recognized in Germany, as explained in more detail below. Additionally, to obtain a six-month visa for job hunting, candidates must pass a language proficiency exam at no lower than level B1.

Here is an overview of average salaries (after taxes) across various professions:

  • Construction workers – €2000-€3000
  • Engineers – €3000-€4000
  • Medical specialists – €4000-€5000
  • Work in logistics — €2000-€3000
  • IT specialists – €4000-€5000
  • Catering – €2000-€3000
  • Finance and Accounting – €3000-€4000
  • Work in the field of education and pedagogy – €3000-€4000
  • Electrician, welder, locksmith – €3000-€4000

Exploring Job Opportunities in Germany:

Where to Find Open Positions

Now, let’s delve into the crucial aspect of where to discover job openings with the previously mentioned salary ranges. There are several avenues to explore.

  1. Official Government Sources:

    • Utilize resources akin to labor exchanges. Visit this [link](government portal link) for an extensive and regularly updated list of vacancies. One notable advantage is that only reputable firms post job offers on the government portal. You can explore job opportunities in any region of the country, with various schedules and salary brackets. The Federal Employment Service is another similar platform that aggregates all job offers.

  2. Specialized Sites and Vacancy Databases:

    • In the contemporary job market, few people advertise job positions in traditional newspapers. However, specialized publications dedicated to job searches exist for every country. Keep an eye on [this site] and [these resources] for the German labor market, which also feature numerous vacancies for Russian speakers. Additionally, corporate social networks like LinkedIn are valuable. Many companies maintain profiles on LinkedIn, regularly sharing information, including job openings.

  3. Direct Outreach:

    • If you have a particular organization in mind or have compiled a list of potential employers, monitor their websites and social media pages. Consider reaching out directly to the HR departments of these companies via email.

As for the local populace, there are no exclusive secrets or “insider tips.” Approximately 70% of individuals search for jobs on online job exchanges and databases, while about 35% leverage social network contacts within firms and send direct inquiries. Only around 20% rely on personal connections for job searches. Therefore, be proactive, don’t hesitate, and exercise patience in your pursuit.

How to find a job in Germany: what you need

Language:

As stipulated by the updated law on labor migration, individuals seeking employment on-site in Germany must possess a minimum B1 proficiency in the German language – online searches do not require language skills. However, having a proficiency level higher than B1 enhances competitiveness. While German is not overly challenging, investing in language preparation, such as hiring a private teacher, can be beneficial. Keep in mind that even for positions where Russian/English suffices, knowledge of German is essential for obtaining a residence permit and ensuring a comfortable stay.

Recognition of Qualifications:

Professions in Germany are categorized into three groups: unskilled, qualified (secondary specialized education), and highly qualified (Higher Education Diploma). Most diplomas require validation through the “recognition” process, ensuring alignment with German standards. However, some unregulated specialties, especially in IT, do not require this process. A convenient service provided by the German government aids foreign specialists in determining qualification levels and guides them through the recognition process. Note that the recognition process takes a minimum of 1-2 months, requiring preparation and patience.

Resume and Responses:

Crafting a resume for a foreign company differs from local practices. Ensure your resume aligns with tips for making it attractive to foreign companies. Notably, resumes for Germany should be in German. Tailor responses and letters for specific vacancies in German companies. Avoid generic letters with attached files; instead, create a concise CV with essential information, including work experience, education, hobbies, and a high-quality photo. Compose a letter explaining your interest in the job and attach a creatively written resume.

Other Documents:

In addition to a standard job application letter, include three main elements: biography, explanatory letter, and resume. Submit formal documents such as diplomas, certificates, recommendation letters, and portfolios. Translate all documents into German, especially diplomas and certificates, considering different grading systems. Notarized translations may be necessary. Print and send documents by regular mail, emphasizing a serious approach.

Resume in German:

Follow a specific procedure for submitting job-seeking documents in Germany. Send a short email with an attached resume – in German. A well-prepared document package demonstrates commitment. The German labor market welcomes qualified specialists, particularly in IT. As of 2023, the hiring process has been streamlined, favoring those with recognized higher or specialized secondary education.

Openness of the German Labor Market:

Finding work in Germany is challenging for migrants, contingent on the labor market’s vacancy status and the candidate’s compliance with legal requirements. Legislative changes since 2020 aim to address the shortage of qualified personnel, expanding labor migration possibilities. Education requirements include higher or specialized secondary education, recognized in Germany. Qualified specialists, especially in IT, have high chances of obtaining work visas.

Knowledge of German:

Proficiency in German, at least at the B1 level, increases job prospects. In IT, education confirmation is no longer mandatory; three years of work experience and a minimum salary suffice. Basic knowledge of German is useful during the job search and post-relocation.

Conclusion:

With recent legislative measures, finding a job in Germany has become more accessible. Modern communication methods expedite the process, making it less tedious. It is crucial to understand immigration rules and bureaucratic intricacies. Best of luck!