Finding a job in Germany can seem daunting, especially for those who do not speak German fluently. However, there are many resources available to help job seekers find opportunities in Germany. The key is knowing where to look and tailoring your search to positions that align with your skills and background.
Use Job Portals Specifically for Germany
Some of the best websites for finding jobs in Germany are Germany-specific job boards and aggregators. These sites list openings from a variety of companies and organizations located in Germany. Focusing your search on Germany-centric sites ensures you will find roles based in the country.
Here are some top job portals for finding positions in Germany:
- StepStone – StepStone is one of the largest online job boards in Germany with over 150,000 job listings across industries like IT, engineering, healthcare, tourism, and more. You can search for full-time, part-time, internship, and apprenticeship opportunities.
- Indeed Germany – Indeed has job aggregator sites specific to countries around the world, including Germany. There are over 200,000 jobs listed on Indeed Germany across career levels and focuses.
- XING Jobs – XING is a popular social networking site for professionals in Germany. Over 15 million members use it to connect and find jobs. There are openings at all experience levels.
- JobScout24 – Owned by StepStone, JobScout24 compiles job postings from over 500 different sites. You can find and apply for roles all in one place.
- Jobware – This job search engine lists openings from company websites, online job boards, newspapers, and staffing agencies. It’s a comprehensive way to find Germany-based roles.
When searching these sites, you can filter by location, job type, industry, experience level, and other factors to narrow your search to the most relevant postings.
Check Company Career Sites
Apply directly on the career sites of companies you want to work for in Germany. Many German companies list their job openings on their own sites rather than third-party boards. Focus on companies in industries that interest you or align with your background.
Some major Germany-based companies to check include:
- Volkswagen
- Deutsche Telekom
- Daimler
- Siemens
- BMW Group
- Bosch
- Bayer
- SAP
- Deutsche Post DHL
- Aldi
You can browse open positions on their websites and apply online in most cases. Having a profile on sites like XING can help make your application stand out.
Leverage Your Network
Networking can be invaluable when trying to find a job abroad. Leverage any connections you have in Germany to discover unadvertised openings. Reach out to:
- Former colleagues who now work for German companies
- Friends and family living in Germany
- Alumni from your university who are now in Germany
- Professional contacts made at industry events or through LinkedIn
Make sure your resume or CV is up-to-date and let your network know you are looking for opportunities in Germany. They may be able to refer you to openings or put you in touch with recruiters.
Work With Recruiters
Develop relationships with recruiters focused on placing candidates in roles throughout Germany. Executive search firms and staffing agencies can advocate for you and match you with suitable openings.
Look for recruiters specializing in your industry as they will have the best insight into available jobs. For example, if you are an engineer, connect with engineering and technology focused recruiters. Attend virtual job fairs and use LinkedIn to find relevant recruiters.
Check German Federal Employment Agency
The Bundesagentur für Arbeit is Germany’s Federal Employment Agency. It offers a job search engine and placement services through its website and local offices.
Some key things you can do on their website include:
- Search and apply for job listings across all sectors
- Get advice on the German labor market and hiring processes
- Learn about requirements for employment in Germany
- Research average salaries for roles
- Find upcoming recruitment fairs
This resource is free to use for job seekers. The Federal Employment Agency also provides unemployment benefits and other services to eligible residents.
Use LinkedIn
LinkedIn is the top professional networking site used in Germany. You can take advantage of features on LinkedIn to find openings in Germany, including:
- Job Search – Use parameters like location and keywords to search listings.
- Groups – Join industry, career, or location-based groups to connect with other members.
- Alumni Tool – View where your university alumni are working now.
- Company Pages – Research firms and look for posted job openings.
- ProFinder – Get quotes from freelance recruiters to assist your job search.
Make sure your LinkedIn profile is optimized with your experience, skills, education, language abilities, and any connections in Germany. A strong profile can help you stand out.
Use Social Media
In addition to LinkedIn, leverage other social networks in your job search. Here are some ways to use social media when looking for jobs in Germany:
- Follow relevant companies and professional organizations on Twitter for job postings and career advice.
- Join Germany-focused groups on Facebook to network and ask about openings.
- Connect with recruiters, hiring managers, and those in your target industry on Instagram.
- Share that you are seeking opportunities in Germany so connections can refer you.
- Research company culture on sites like Kununu to find employers aligning with your values.
Make sure your own social media profiles, like Twitter and Facebook, are professional to give connections a positive view of you as a candidate.
Check University Resources
If you are a student or recent graduate, utilize career services resources from your university. Many university career centers cater specifically to helping students find international roles.
Your university may offer:
- International job and internship listings
- Alumni mentorship programs
- Career fairs for students seeking abroad opportunities
- Workshops on applying for overseas roles
- Resume reviews and interview prep for global positions
Research what is available through your university. You can likely access many services and job listings as an alumni as well.
Attend Industry Events
Industry conferences, trade shows, and networking events can all provide exposure to potential employers in Germany. Try to attend events aligned with your field occurring in Germany.
You may be able to:
- Meet recruiters and hiring managers in person
- Network with professionals at target companies
- Learn about the latest industry trends and openings
- Collect business cards and connect on LinkedIn
- Research companies showcasing products or services
Look for relevant conferences, expos, career fairs, association events, and more. You can also research if any German professional organizations for your industry host virtual events you can join.
Use Relocation Resources
Specialized sites like Just Landed connect professionals moving to Germany with job opportunities, career resources, and hiring companies. These relocation sites aggregate openings suited for non-German speakers.
Some key relocation job sites for Germany roles include:
- Just Landed
- German Jobs
- The Local
- Toytown Germany
- Arbeitnow
You can browse job listings, post your resume, register your recruitment criteria, and get hiring support through these platforms designed for relocating foreigners.
Consider Short-Term Opportunities
Taking on short-term, temporary roles in Germany can help you get your foot in the door and learn more about the job market. Options like internships, apprenticeships, contract work, and freelancing allow you to gain German experience.
Types of short-term jobs to consider when new to Germany include:
- Paid/Unpaid Internships
- Seasonal Work
- Hospitality and Tourism Roles
- Temporary Office Work
- Contract or Project-Based Work
- Freelance Gigs
Take advantage of short-term placements to build your network and skills. It can lead to a permanent position down the road.
Learn German
Learning German will significantly widen your opportunities in the country. While some international companies operate in English, you’ll have an advantage if you speak German. Consider:
- Enrolling in intensive language courses
- Using apps, podcasts, videos, and books to pick up German
- Getting a tutoring teacher
- Joining local German conversation groups
- Taking formal exams like the Goethe-Zertifikat
Add any German language skills or training to your resume. Even basic proficiency can give you a boost.
Obtain Necessary Visas or Permits
Make sure you obtain any required visas or permits for working in Germany for the duration needed. For non-EU citizens, options include:
- Blue Card – For high-skilled workers in fields with labor shortages. It provides a path to permanent residency.
- Work Visa – For qualified professionals with an offer of employment in Germany.
- Freelance Visa – For freelancers able to acquire three contracts with German companies.
- Jobseeker Visa – Allows six months to search for jobs in Germany as a resident.
Review visa types and application processes. Having permission to work long-term can ease the job search. Some employers may sponsor qualified candidates.
Be Persistent Yet Targeted
It takes effort and persistence to find work abroad. But tailoring your search is key. Follow these tips:
- Set up job alerts on relevant sites to be notified of new openings.
- Follow application instructions closely and submit required documents.
- Customize your resume and cover letters to match German expectations.
- Apply for roles well-aligned to your background.
- Network consistently but authentically, not just to ask for job leads.
With a focused, proactive approach, you can uncover excellent career opportunities in Germany.
Conclusion
Germany offers a robust job market with openings across sectors. But purposefully using niche Germany-focused job sites, targeted networking, language skills, and persistence is key to landing a position as a foreigner. Resources exist to connect qualified professionals with great companies ready to sponsor overseas talent.