The German job market has been evolving over the years, shaped not only by the effects of the Coronavirus crisis but also by the progress in digitalization and automation. While technological advancements hold the potential to boost the economy and create new jobs, many sectors of the German industry are undergoing significant changes. According to the Bundesagentur für Arbeit (Federal Employment Agency), some professions are now in higher demand than ever since the crisis. This article provides an analysis of the German job market outlook and highlights the top 10 most sought-after jobs in Germany for 2023.
1.Engineers: Robotics, Aerospace, and Agri-food
Despite concerns about job losses, automation and evolving machinery are creating exciting prospects for engineers and technicians.
Robotics engineers program, develop, repair, and maintain future devices. They are also responsible for all activities related to autonomous driving. Interest in space-related activities is continuously growing. As a robotics engineer, you can land a highly lucrative job with an annual income of up to €65,000.
In Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, a prerequisite for working as an engineer is typically a degree from a university or technical school, or specific training from a vocational school.
Another high-demand profession is aerospace engineering. Aerospace engineers work on developing engines, new energy supply systems, and equipment for airplanes and rockets. The average salary for an engineer in this field is around €60,000.
Lastly, technicians in the agri-food industry have promising prospects. The current trend towards conscious eating benefits this industry, increasing consumer demand for food production and processing. Consequently, the demand for agri-food technicians is expected to rise significantly in the coming years.
2.E-commerce-related Jobs
Due to lockdowns and pandemic-related restrictions, many people have been making online purchases since 2020, resulting in record-breaking online sales. This trend is expected to continue, creating numerous job opportunities in the e-commerce sector.
For instance, the role of Performance Marketing Manager is in high demand in Germany. Many companies are expanding their online presence, and product sales through social media platforms are on the rise. Performance Marketing Managers are responsible for advertising management, making this job likely to remain in demand this year.
3.Cloud Architects
With an increasing number of people working from home, networking and access to external servers work most efficiently with cloud technology. According to a study, 97% of companies in Germany use not just one but multiple cloud providers. Adequate architects are required to manage these structures, and new job opportunities are expected to open up in this field.
4.Game Developers
While concerts and cinema visits have been hindered by the Covid crisis, the global video game industry has thrived. Sales are on the rise, and this sector can tackle digital challenges effectively.
Even though the gaming industry in Germany is relatively small to medium-sized, game developers are confident and see potential for newcomers.
5.Nursing Staff and Healthcare Professions
The demand for nursing assistants in Germany is set to increase, not only due to demographic changes but also because of the pandemic, which has necessitated more specialists in the medical sector.
Employees in emergency fields, such as geriatrics or intensive care, may have more say in their working hours and salary expectations in the future. Additionally, more laboratory assistants and virologists are needed for ongoing research.
There are numerous training and career paths in the healthcare sector, with career changes not uncommon among nurses. The German Institute for Economic Research warns of a potential shortage of over 300,000 nurses in 15 years.
6.Data Analysts/Data Scientists
This field has emerged recently due to increasing digitization in the job market. These roles are suitable for those interested in internal management consulting tasks, primarily involving translating vast amounts of data into concrete actions.
Solutions developed based on global models and analysis are used to optimize inventory or improve customer segmentation. Proficiency in machine learning for algorithm development is required. The job description for Data Scientists is versatile and not tied to specific education.
Generally, individuals in this profession have a background in mathematics or economics and a strong grasp of statistics. Proficiency in programming languages and statistical tools is also necessary.
7.Customer and Employee Satisfaction Experts
Despite the proliferation of technical jobs, professions that involve personal interaction remain in high demand.
According to experts, jobs like HR Partners and Customer Success Specialists are among the most sought-after profiles. Especially in the context of talent acquisition, these roles in human resources are highly desired.
HR Partners have a wide range of responsibilities, from creating employee development concepts with executives to supporting employee evaluations.
On the other hand, Customer Success Managers ensure customer satisfaction and play a key role in defining concrete steps for a company’s success.
8.Content Managers
Content Managers contribute to editorial concepts and online content management. They determine themes, conduct research, create content, and optimize websites or online stores. Any company aiming to run a professional website or a corporate blog requires a Content Manager.
While a degree in computer science or journalism is ideal, it’s not mandatory. Training in media design, for example, can lead to this profession. Proficiency in content management systems is crucial, and SEO and SEA skills are desirable. Content Managers should also be familiar with image editing software like Photoshop and have knowledge of HTML.
Salaries for Content Managers vary widely, ranging from €2,300 to €3,500 gross per month in Germany, depending on the company, education, and role.
9.Mobile App Developers
Mobile app developers design and develop applications for smartphones and tablets. Given the increasing sales of mobile phones, this task is unlikely to become obsolete.
Applications are optimized for various end devices, data exchange interfaces are designed, algorithms are developed, and user experience is ensured.
While a degree in computer science is ideal, many employers accept candidates with relevant training due to high demand. Essential skills include knowledge of software architecture, browser technology, internet standards, and proficiency in programming languages.
10.Software Developers
Virtual reality (VR) is at the forefront of software development, whether it’s in healthcare, travel, educational entertainment, or gaming. Software developers are responsible for implementation and development of the necessary programs for VR experiences.
These developers are typically computer scientists who have completed an apprenticeship or obtained a degree. What can set you apart is showcasing programs or projects you’ve worked on independently.
Software developers in Germany earn above-average salaries, with an average annual gross income of around €56,000.
Conclusion:
The German job market is undergoing significant transformations, driven by factors such as digitalization, automation, and changing consumer behaviors. While some traditional jobs may face challenges, new opportunities are emerging across various industries. The top 10 most in-demand jobs in Germany for 2023 encompass a wide range of fields, from engineering and technology to healthcare and content management. Staying informed about these trends can help individuals make informed career choices and adapt to the evolving job landscape in Germany.
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