A Quick Guide to Jobs in Germany for Expats (2024)

Are you looking for jobs in Germany as an expat? If so, you are not alone. Germany is one of the most popular destinations for foreigners who want to work and live in Europe. In December 2023, Germany offers numerous job opportunities for expats and English speakers. LinkedIn reports over 615,000 English-speaking jobs, including 24,418 new ones. The in demand jobs in Germany includes the following:

• Software engineer

• Healthcare professionals

• Engineers

• English teachers

• Sales representatives

However, finding a job in Germany can be challenging, especially if you don’t speak German. You need to know where to look, how to apply, and what to expect from the German work culture.

In this blog post, we will provide you with a quick guide to jobs in Germany for expats. We will cover topics such as:

• The best job boards and websites to find jobs in Germany

• The most in-demand sectors and companies hiring expats

• The best regions and cities to find job opportunities

• The requirements and tips for applying for English jobs in Germany

• The benefits and drawbacks of working in Germany as an expat

As an expat who once sought work in Germany, I can attest to the country’s vibrant job market. However, the process wasn’t easy. I had to navigate through various job boards, understand the work culture, and even pick up some German along the way. But don’t worry, this post will guide you through it all. Unlike other guides, we offerreal-life insightsandup-to-date informationto help you land your dream job in Germany.

By the end of this blog post, you will have a better idea of how to find and land your dream job in Germany. Let’s get started!

Are you an American planning to work in Germany? This blog can help you: Quick Guide for Finding Jobs in Germany For Americans

Can Expats Find Jobs in Germany?

Germany has many job opportunities for locals and expats, especially in North Rhine-Westphalia. According to visitworld.today, this is Germany’s most populous and economically powerful state, with a GDP of over 700 billion euros. It is home to many top companies in various industries, such as engineering, manufacturing, IT, and finance. If you are looking for English jobs or English speaking jobs in Germany, you will find many options in this region.

North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany has numerous job options for English-speaking expats. In 2023, there are 1679 English jobs available across diverse sectors like IT, Sales, and Marketing. Roles include Brand Ambassador and Embedded Software Engineer. Glassdoor lists 3,365 English job postings, showing a lively job market. While competition is high, knowing German can be an advantage.

As of March 2023, Eures said there were 45.72 million people employed in Germany, with an increase in employment compared to the previous year. But are there any German Jobs for expats and foreigners? The answer is yes, and you can even get a job in Germany without a degree.

Like most countries, the salary in Germany isn’t always the same. Check our article on What Expats Need To Know About Average Gross Salary – Germany Before Moving?

English Jobs in Germany for Expats

There are 4766 English-speaking jobs in North Rhine-Westphalia, including roles such as (Senior) Cloud Network Engineer and Senior Data Engineer. To give you a better idea, the following are the jobs in Germany that you can build your career on.

Software Engineer

• Germany’s IT industry is thriving, with a projected revenue of €120.2 billion in 2023, according to Statista. It boasts the largest software market in Europe and is a global leader in ICT. With over 95,808 IT companies and around 1.124 million employees in 2022, Germany offers ample opportunities for software developers. The demand is particularly high in AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, making Germany an attractive destination for developers seeking international work opportunities.

  

• As a software developer/engineer in Germany, you can expect to earn an average annual gross salary of €89,534. Theberlinlife.com said that this amount is higher than the European average. You will also enjoy social security, health insurance, and paid vacation benefits.

Healthcare Professionals

• Germany’s healthcare sector is experiencing a significant demand for professionals. In 2022, Statista reported that there were a substantial number of doctors employed, the highest figure since 1990. The demand is driven by an aging population and increasing health issues. For English-speaking foreigners, Germany is an attractive destination due to its strong economy and high standard of living. Moreover, a significant portion of the population speaks English, making it easier for foreigners to integrate and communicate.

  

• According to a report by Euronews, Germany pays the highest salaries for doctors in Europe, with an average of €146,200 per year. Meanwhile, Payscalestated that nurses also earn a decent income, with an average of €34,532 per year.

Do you want to work as a nurse in Germany? Our How To Work as a Nurse in Germany blog post can help you!

Engineers (Electrical, Construction, Mechanical)

• Germany’s engineering sector is experiencing a significant demand for professionals. In 2023, the country faced a shortage of engineers, with thousands retiring. The number of engineering students was growing, but not enough to meet the demand. For English-speaking foreigners, Germany is an attractive destination due to its strong economy and high standard of living. Moreover, a substantial portion of the population speaks English, making it easier for foreigners to integrate and communicate.

  

• According to salaryexpert.com, the average salary for engineers on site is around 70,000 to 77,000 euros annually. However, this may vary depending on your specialization and experience. For example, a report by academics.com said that electrical engineers on site earn an average of 74,000 euros per year, construction engineers earn an average of 66,000 euros per year, and mechanical engineers earn an average of 71,000 euros per year.

English Teachers

• One of the most popular english jobs in Germany for expats is English language teaching. English teaching is highly required in Germany, including EFL (English as a foreign language) teachers and business English teachers. You can find opportunities to teach English in various settings, such as private language schools, public schools, universities, or online platforms.

• The average salary for English language teachers varies based on the type of teaching and experience. According to teachaway.com, the median salary for English language teachers in Germany is €55,668 per year, while the median salary for English teachers is €161 per hour.

• However, the actual salary may differ depending on the location, the hours, and the qualifications of the teacher. For example, International TEFL Academy reports that English teachers in Germany can expect to make anywhere between $1,000 – $2,200 USD per month from working at a private language school.

Sales Representative

• Another English job in Germany for expats is sales representative. Sales representatives are sought after in various industries to drive business growth and revenue. They are responsible for contacting potential and existing customers, presenting products or services, negotiating prices and contracts, and closing deals.

• Salaries for sales representatives vary based on the industry and level of experience. According to SalaryExpert, the average gross salary for sales representatives in Germany is €51,828 per year, with an average bonus of €7,075. However, these numbers may differ depending on the sales representative’s location, hours, and qualifications.

Best Places to Work in Germany

We have compiled a table of some of the best places to find job and work in Germany for English speakers in 2023, along with the available jobs, expected salary, and industry. Please note that the salary and industry data are based on averages and estimates, and may vary depending on the specific position, company, and qualifications.

Expat Reviews Regarding Working in Germany

Germany is a country that values punctuality, efficiency, and quality in the workplace. Expats who work in Germany need to adapt to these high standards and expectations, as well as the formal and direct communication style of their German colleagues and superiors. Germans tend to separate their work and personal lives, and do not engage in much small talk or socializing during work hours. They also take pride in their work and expect others to do the same. Expats who can demonstrate their skills, knowledge, and professionalism will earn the respect and trust of their German counterparts.

However, expats should also be aware of the challenges and opportunities of working in a diverse and highly educated workforce, where competition can be fierce and innovation is encouraged. Working in Germany can be a rewarding and enriching experience for expats who are willing to learn and respect the German business culture.

Here are some reviews about working in Germany:

• I moved to Germany two years ago for a job opportunity in Berlin. I love the city and the work culture here. The people are friendly and helpful, and the public transport is efficient and reliable. I enjoy the flexibility and the work-life balance that my employer offers. The only downside is the language barrier. Even though most Germans speak English, they prefer to use German in most situations. I have been taking German classes, but it is not easy to learn. Sometimes I feel left out or frustrated when I cannot communicate well with my colleagues or neighbors.

• I have been working in Germany for three years now, and I have mixed feelings about it. On one hand, I admire the German economy and the job market. There are plenty of opportunities and challenges for professionals in different fields. The working hours are reasonable and the job security is high. On the other hand, I find the German culture and the people to be very cold and distant. They are not very welcoming or friendly to foreigners. They are also very rigid and strict about rules and regulations. I have a hard time making friends and feeling at home here.

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• I have been working in Germany for a year now, and I love it. I work in Frankfurt, which is a dynamic and cosmopolitan city. I enjoy the diversity and the vibrancy of the place. I also like the work ethic and the professionalism of the Germans. They are very efficient and productive, and they respect the deadlines and the quality of work. I also have a good work-life balance here. I have enough time and money to travel and explore other parts of Germany and Europe. I have made some friends and joined some clubs and activities. I feel happy and fulfilled here.

To read more reviews, check forum websites like Reddit or similarweb to browse available jobs.

Are you worried about the cost of living in Germany? Check out these articles about the Lowest Paying Jobs in Germany in 2023 and Self Employed vs Freelancer in Germany: A Quick Guide

How to Find English Speaking Jobs in Germany?

You can use an online job board to search for companies hiring in Germany and apply for jobs that suit your skills and qualifications. Whether you want to work in a big city like Berlin, Munich, Cologne, Düsseldorf, or Dortmund, or in a smaller town like Bonn, Essen, or Münster, you will find jobs that match your preferences and expectations.

Here are detailed tips for Americans navigating job boards in Germany:

1. Choose the Right Job Boards: Opt for well-known platforms like StepStone, Indeed, Xing, and Truffls, as they comprehensively cover diverse job types and regions in Germany. These platforms host a handful of opportunities across various industries, providing a broad scope for job seekers.

2. Explore English-Specific Boards: While the majority of jobs in Germany require German proficiency, focus on English-specific job boards. Some platforms cater specifically to English-speaking internationals, increasing the likelihood of finding positions suitable for non-German speakers.

3. Utilize Business Networks: Leverage the popularity of business networking platforms such as Xing and LinkedIn in Germany. These platforms not only allow you to create a professional online presence but also facilitate networking opportunities and connections with potential employers.

4. Maintain Professionalism: In the competitive job market, responsiveness is key. Respond promptly to emails or calls from potential employers, showcasing your professionalism and eagerness. A courteous and polished demeanor can leave a lasting impression on recruiters.

5. Stay Engaged: Regularly check job boards for new opportunities and stay actively involved in the application process. Consistent engagement increases your chances of coming across the latest job postings and ensures that you are among the first applicants, enhancing your visibility to employers.

6. Try Innovative Apps: Explore emerging job-seeking apps like Truffls and Talentcube. These innovative platforms offer unique approaches to connecting job seekers with potential employers, providing additional avenues to explore in your job search.

Best Websites To Explore Job Opportunities in Germany

Sure, here are three websites that expats interested in finding job opportunities in Germany can explore:

1. LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a global professional networking platform that also serves as a job portal. It’s popular in Germany, with approximately 9 million active users. LinkedIn features job postings from various sectors and allows users to network with potential employers. The platform recently released a study highlighting the most in-demand jobs in Germany, providing valuable insights for job seekers.

2. JobMesh: JobMesh is one of the leading job search portals in Germany, with more than 1.9 million job ads. It offers a wide range of job listings for English speakers. JobMesh provides an easy online application process and also offers filters like remote work, location, category, contract type, and companies.

3. Stepstone: Stepstone is a job portal that has been serving the German market for over 25 years. It offers services in both German and English, making it accessible for expats. Stepstone provides a variety of job categories, including engineering, IT, sales, finance, HR, and more. It also offers a “salary planner” where you can estimate potential earnings.

Requirements for Working in Germany

Working in Germany as an expat or foreigner involves several steps and requirements. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. Visa Requirements: If you are from the USA, you do not need a work visa to enter Germany, nor do you need to have a job offer prior to entering Germany. However, you do need to apply for a residence permit at the Foreigners’ Office upon your arrival in Germany.

2. Application Process:

   • Apply for an Employment Visa or Job-Seeker Visa at the German Embassy.

   • Register your living address at the local Citizens’ Registration Office (Bürgeramt).

   • Get health insurance.

   • Make an appointment at the Ausländerbehörde.

   • Gather the required documents.

3. Required Documents:

   • Two fully completed application forms. Printed and signed at the end.

   • Two passport photographs.

   • Valid national passport.

   • Proof of residence. Your driver’s license and/or utility bill in your name as proof of residence in the territory of the consulate where you plan to apply.

   • Health insurance. Compulsory certificate from German employer, valid from date of employment.

   • A signed contract from your future employer.

   • Certificate about compulsory health insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung). From German employer valid from date of employment.

Remember, you cannot start working until your application for a residence permit has been approved, even if you are in Germany already. Good luck with your job search!

Final Thoughts About Jobs in Germany

In conclusion, Germany offers plenty of job opportunities for expats across various sectors. Whether you are a software engineer, healthcare professional, engineer, English teacher, or sales representative, Germany’s robust economy and diverse industries provide a welcoming environment for international talent.

While the language barrier may pose a challenge, especially in day-to-day interactions, the rewarding aspects of working in Germany, such as competitive salaries, a stable job market, and a high quality of life, make it a desirable destination for many expats.

Explore reputable job portals like LinkedIn, JobMesh, and Stepstone to kickstart your job search in Germany. These platforms provide a comprehensive list of job opportunities and valuable insights into the German job market. Additionally, ensure that you meet the necessary requirements, including obtaining the required work/residence permit and visa, having a recognized foreign qualification, and completing the essential documentation.

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