Skill Shortage In Germany! Time To Get The Right Work Opportunities (2024)

In this special edition newsletter, we look at the present status of the German employment market and the pressing issue of skills shortages in several industries. Germany, as Europe's top economy, is facing an increasing need for talented employees, and knowing the potential and constraints in the employment market will assist individuals thinking about relocating in making informed decisions. According to a recent report by the Cologne Institute for economic research, Germany’s labour market faces an unprecedented shortage of skilled workers, with over 630,000 unfilled job vacancies. As a result, Germany is in urgent need of immigrant workers to boost the country’s economy.

According to the report, IT, construction and electrical engineering are the most affected industries.

Skills Shortages in the Following Industries:

Germany's flourishing economy has increased the need for qualified people, yet specific industries suffer significant skill shortages. According to the German Federal Employment Agency, important job vacancies exist in these sectors, with demand expected to increase in the coming years. These industries include:

• Information Technology (IT) and Software Development: As technology advances, the demand for qualified IT personnel grows.
• Engineering: There is a severe scarcity of skilled and experienced engineers, particularly in mechanical, electrical, and automotive engineering.
• Healthcare and Nursing: As the population ages, there is a greater need for healthcare professionals and nurses.
• Skilled Trades: Carpenters, plumbers, and electricians are in great demand, particularly in the building business.
• Scientific Research and Development: Germany's concentration on innovation has resulted in a need for more researchers and developers across the board.
• Manufacturing and Production: The manufacturing industry requires competent personnel to sustain productivity and competitiveness.

Curious about the latest insights on the European labour market? Check out the Eurostat website for comprehensive statistics and trends.

Careers in High Demand:

Particular jobs are in high demand in the German labour market owing to their importance to the economy and society. Some of the most in-demand occupations include:

• Software Developers and Engineers: With the rise of digitisation, software experts are becoming increasingly important in various businesses.
• Healthcare Specialists: Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals must address the population's healthcare demands.
• Engineers: Mechanical, electrical, and automotive engineers are essential in Germany's industrial environment.
• Data Analysts and Scientists: In the age of big data, experts who can analyse and understand data are in great demand.
• Automotive Engineers and Technicians: They are in great demand due to Germany's significant automotive sector.
• Construction & Building Trades Specialists: Skilled construction professionals are required to address infrastructural and housing demands.

Relocation Requirements for Skilled Workers:

If you are thinking about moving to Germany for employment, you should be aware of the typical criteria for skilled workers:

• Academic Qualifications and Job Experience: Typically, a relevant educational degree or professional certifications, as well as significant job experience in the corresponding industry, are necessary.
• Language fluency: While some employment is available in English, German language fluency is frequently required for integration and job possibilities.
• Valid Visa and Work Permit: To work legally in Germany, you must first get the necessary visa and work permit.

Germany's Approach to Skilled Labor Shortage:

Recognising the importance of skilled employees for economic growth, Germany has developed a number of efforts to solve the skills deficit, including:

• Targeted Training Programmes: Training programmes that focus on needed skills have been developed through collaboration between industry and educational institutions.
• Emphasising vocational training: This helps bridge the gap between theoretical education and actual employment abilities.
• Attracting Foreign Talent: Initiatives to simplify the relocation procedure and assist competent workers from other countries.

Skilled Immigration Act and EU Blue Card:

Germany uses the EU Blue Card to recruit highly talented non-EU employees, allowing qualified experts to work and remain in the nation for up to four years with the potential of becoming permanent residents. Furthermore, the Skilled Immigration Act makes relocating to Germany easier for non-EU skilled professionals, benefiting both workers and companies.

How Hire Tech Talent & Tech Jobs Fair - Berlin 2023 Can Help:

During a skills shortage, jobs fairs such as Tech Jobs Fair - Berlin & reverse-recruitment platform Hire Tech Talent can play an essential role in connecting talented workers with prospective employers in the technology industry.

These platforms bring together tech companies and job seekers, boosting networking and career chances.

Attending such job fairs offers access to various tech-related professions in Germany's expanding IT sector. Companies, on the other side, can meet brilliant applicants with the skills they require to fill current personnel gaps.

Participating in this fair might be a beneficial step for qualified people wishing to come to Germany and contribute significantly to the country's technical growth.

We hope that this newsletter has thrown some light on Germany's skills gap and job prospects. Moving to a new country is a big step, and knowing the employment market characteristics can help you plan your journey intelligently.

Thank you for reading, and best wishes for your future endeavours!