Germany urgently needs 770,000+ foreign workers for these 20 jobs in 2024

Germany urgently needs 770,000+ foreign workers for these 20 jobs in 2024

web desk

dec 28, 2023

Germany is currently facing a significant labor shortage, characterized by a staggering 770,301 job vacancies. This number represents a near doubling of available positions compared to 2011 statistics.

Germany urgently needs 770,000+ foreign workers for these 20 jobs in 2024

The demographic situation, with an average population age of 45 and a low birth rate of 1.53 per woman, has made Germany increasingly reliant on foreign workers to maintain its robust economy.

In response to evolving workforce needs, Germany has consistently adapted its immigration rules over the years. The aim is to facilitate easier access to the labor market for refugees and foreign workers.

Despite these policy adjustments, specific sectors continue to experience vacancies that remain open to foreign individuals with the required education or experience.

Opportunities for foreign workers

While Germany is struggling with this labor shortage, foreigners who want to live and work in the country can take advantage of the opportunity to start the work visa process.

Demand for skilled workers is particularly high in a variety of fields, including:

1. Livestock breeding

2. Forestry

3. Gardening

4. Tire technology and vulcanization

5. Wood, furniture, interior fittings

6. Metalworking

7. Automation

8. Geodetic work, scaffolding

9. Internal constructions and dry masonry

10. Glazing

11. Pipeline construction

12. Construction of equipment, containers and equipment

13. Monitoring and maintenance of railway infrastructure

14. Forwarding and logistics

15. Drivers for earthmoving and related machinery

16. Sales (furniture, fittings)

17. Sale

18. System catering

19. Pharmaceutical technical assistant

20. Bus and tram drivers

Compensation in high demand areas

According to data from the Economic Research Institute (ERI), compensation for different roles varies in demand. For example:

• Crop workers earn an average of €35,616 per year and €17 per hour.

• Forest technicians receive €36,791 per year and €18 per hour.

• Growers of horticultural specialties earn €36,913 per year at an hourly rate of €18.

• Construction workers have an annual salary of €44,052 and €21 an hour.

• Drivers receive €28,276 per year and €14 per hour.

The best paying profession in Germany

At the other end of the spectrum are the highest paying jobs in Germany and their average annual salaries:

• Doctor (71,600 – 101,696 EUR)

• Pilot (93,499 EUR)

• Sales Manager (82,392 EUR)

• Lawyer (81,254 EUR)

• Portfolio manager (80,000 to 120,000 EUR)

• University professor (€74,200)

• Engineering (63,000 EUR)

• Software developer (€45,000 to €80,000)

• Project manager (45,000 to 90,000 EUR)

• Risk manager (€70,000 – €85,000)

• Judge (€76,619)

• tax consultant (70,000 EUR)

Visa requirements and eligibility

A visa may be required for non-German citizens seeking employment in Germany. However, citizens of member countries of the EU, the European Economic Area and the European Free Trade Association can work in Germany without a visa. Similarly, nationals of Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, the USA and South Korea can enter the country with a passport, but must apply for a residence permit upon arrival.

European working landscape

29 European countries are currently facing a labor shortage, while 24 countries have a labor surplus. Among the professions that are in short supply are mainly software development, healthcare, construction and engineering. Conversely, occupations with redundant work include clerical roles, entry-level occupations, and professional roles in the humanities and arts.