Engineering Jobs in Germany for Foreigners

The mechanical engineering industry is the largest industrial employer in Germany, providing jobs for around 1.36 million people. 

Germany’s mechanical engineering industry has a strong export surplus, with an export quota of 79%. The industry is diverse, covering areas such as agricultural engineering, construction machinery, materials handling, and robotics, to name a few. In 2018, the top-selling sectors were machine tools, drive technology, materials handling, packaging technology, and mining and building material machinery.

However, the sector is facing transformation pressures due to new customer demands, increased competition, and rising cost pressures. There’s a need for digitalization and adaptation to new customer needs to maintain the quality leadership associated with the “Made in Germany” label.

In this article, we shall be diving into the German engineering sector to discover available job opportunities and the ways migrants can leverage these to find employment. 

What are Engineering jobs in Germany 

Engineering jobs in Germany are diverse and cover a wide range of industries, reflecting the country’s strong engineering tradition and its leading position in various sectors. German engineering jobs often focus on innovation, precision, and quality. Engineers are expected to contribute to the development of cutting-edge technologies and maintain the high standards that “Made in Germany” products are known for.

Engineers in Germany can work in numerous fields such as automotive, aerospace, mechanical, electrical, and software engineering, among others. For instance, you might find positions like a Regional Service Engineer at General Motors Europe, a Flight Simulation Engineer at RTDynamics, or a Knowledge Engineer at material.one AG.

Many engineering roles, especially in large multinational companies, operate in an international environment, requiring engineers to collaborate with teams from around the world. With the ongoing digital transformation and the increasing focus on sustainability, engineers are also tasked with innovating and adapting traditional practices to meet modern challenges.

The job market is vibrant, with opportunities ranging from traditional engineering roles to more specialized positions. For example, jobs listed on platforms like EuroEngineerJobs include roles in aerospace, automotive, biomedical, and sales and marketing.

While German is the primary language of communication in many companies, there are numerous English-speaking engineering jobs available, catering to the international community. Engineering jobs in Germany are not just about technical skills; they also require adaptability, continuous learning, and a commitment to quality and innovation.

Types of Engineering jobs for foreigners in Germany 

Foreigners seeking engineering jobs in Germany have a variety of options across different fields. These positions are often available to English speakers, and companies may offer support with language courses and integration into German society

Here are some types of engineering jobs available:

1- Software Engineering: Positions like Full-Stack Engineer, DevOps Engineer, and Software Engineer in machine tool or automation systems are in demand. These roles often require programming skills and an understanding of software development processes.

2- Mechanical Engineering: Jobs in this field might involve design, development, and testing of mechanical systems. Germany’s strong automotive and manufacturing sectors offer numerous opportunities for mechanical engineers.

3- Electrical Engineering: Electrical engineers can find roles in power generation, electronics manufacturing, or working with electrical components in various machinery and equipment].

4- Field Service Technician: These positions are available in industries like precast concrete components, where technicians assemble and commission plants and machinery.

5- Application Engineer: Roles such as Application Engineer for Die and Mould Milling involve advising end-users and sales staff, often requiring specialized knowledge in specific engineering applications.

6- Sales and Marketing in Engineering: Engineers with a knack for business can find roles that combine technical expertise with sales and marketing skills, particularly in sectors like aerospace, automotive, and biomedical engineering.

7- Renewable Energy Engineer: With Germany’s commitment to renewable energy, there are opportunities for engineers in wind, solar, and bioenergy sectors.

8- Automotive Engineer: The automotive industry is one of Germany’s largest sectors, offering roles in design, production, and innovation of vehicles.

9- Biomedical Engineer: This field combines engineering principles with medical sciences to design and create equipment, devices, computer systems, and software used in healthcare.

10- Civil Engineer: Civil engineers in Germany can work on infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, and public transport systems.

11- Environmental Engineer: These professionals work on solutions to environmental problems, such as waste treatment and pollution control.

Visa Pathways for Engineering jobs in Germany

For engineers looking to work in Germany, there are several visa pathways available. It’s important to note that the requirements for these visas can change, so it’s advisable to check the latest information from official resources or consult with a visa expert. Additionally, knowledge of the German language, while not mandatory, can be a significant advantage in the job market.

1- EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is a residence permit for non-EU nationals who are highly qualified professionals, including engineers. The EU Blue Card offers several benefits, such as the ability to move freely within the EU and equal treatment with nationals of the Member State where the individual has settled. After 18 months of regular employment, the holder may move to another EU member state to take up employment

To be eligible for an EU Blue Card, engineers must meet the following criteria:

• Qualifications: Possess a Master’s Degree or equivalent, or have at least 5 years of professional experience in their field.
• Employment Contract: Have a work contract or a binding job offer for highly qualified employment for at least one year.
• Minimum Salary: Meet the minimum salary threshold, which varies by country but is protected by law to ensure it respects the value of the profession.

2- Visa for Qualified Professionals

The Visa for Qualified Professionals is a German residence permit for individuals who have completed higher education or qualified vocational training outside of Germany. The work visa for qualified professionals is issued for a maximum of four years or for the duration of the work contract if it’s shorter. After holding a residence permit for employment purposes for at least four years, you may be entitled to obtain a settlement permit, which is essentially a permanent residence permit.

Engineers looking to work in Germany can apply for this visa if they meet the following requirements:

• Recognition of Qualifications: Your foreign qualifications must be recognized in Germany or be comparable to a German higher education institution. If you’re seeking employment in a regulated profession, such as health professions, you’ll need a professional practice permit.
• Job Offer: You must have a job offer from an employer in Germany that corresponds to your qualifications.
• Salary Requirements: If you are over 45 years old and coming to Germany for the first time for employment purposes, your gross annual salary for the position must be at least €46,530 (as of 2022), or you must provide proof of adequate old-age pension provisions.

3- Visa for Jobseekers

The Visa for Jobseekers in Germany is designed for individuals who wish to seek employment in Germany, including engineers. It allows you to stay in Germany for up to six months to look for a job that matches your qualifications. 

The job seeker visa cannot be extended, and after it expires, you may only re-apply for the same visa once you have spent the same duration abroad that was spent in Germany while seeking employment.

Other general requirements for this visa type include:

• Eligibility: You must have a recognized university degree or vocational training, and your qualifications must be recognized in Germany or equivalent to a German degree.
• Language Skills: If you have completed vocational training, you generally need to prove German language skills at a minimum level of B1 according to the CEFR.
• Financial Support: You must prove that you can support yourself financially during your stay, as you are not allowed to work on this visa.
• Job Offer: If you find a job that corresponds to your qualifications, you can then apply for an EU Blue Card or a residence permit for qualified professionals.

4- Visa for Research

The Visa for Research in Germany is aimed at non-EU citizens who wish to conduct research in the country. The visa or residence permit for research is issued for at least one year and allows you to work at the research institute listed in your contract or take on a teaching position. It can be extended provided you fulfill the same requirements. You can also conduct research and teach for a limited period in other EU states (except the UK, Ireland, and Denmark). After four years, you may receive a settlement permit in Germany.

Engineers who are interested in research positions can apply for this visa if they meet the following criteria:

• Hosting Agreement: You must have a hosting agreement or a work contract with a research institute in Germany. The institute must commit in writing to cover your living and travel costs back to your country of origin for up to 6 months after the research position ends, unless the position is primarily funded by public funds.
• Qualifications: You are considered a researcher if you have at least a PhD/doctorate or a suitable university degree enabling you to access PhD degree programs.
• Post-Research Opportunities: Once your research position has ended, you have up to nine months to find another position in Germany that aligns with your qualifications. You must then apply for a residence permit for job seekers.

Application process for foreign engineering work in Germany 

The application process for foreign engineers looking to work in Germany involves several steps:

1. Recognition of Qualifications: Before applying for a visa, ensure that your engineering qualifications are recognized in Germany. You may need to go through a recognition process, which can be initiated at the Baden-Württemberg Chamber of Engineers for those who wish to work in that region.
2. Job Offer: Secure a job offer in your field of engineering that corresponds to your qualifications.
3. Visa Application: Depending on your situation, apply for the appropriate visa. This could be the EU Blue Card, Visa for Qualified Professionals, Visa for Jobseekers, or Visa for Research.
4. Language Proficiency: While not always mandatory, proficiency in the German language can be a significant advantage and is often a requirement for certain positions.
5. Application Submission: Submit your visa application along with all required documents, such as your CV, recognition of qualifications, job offer, and proof of financial support if necessary.
6. Health Insurance: Obtain health insurance that is valid in Germany, as this is a requirement for the visa application.
7. Wait for Approval: After submitting your application, wait for the approval of your visa. The duration of this process can vary.
8. Arrival in Germany: Once your visa is approved, you can enter Germany and start your engineering career.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Germany offers a wealth of opportunities for foreign engineers across a variety of sectors, including automotive, renewable energy, and information technology. The country’s strong engineering tradition and focus on innovation and quality make it an attractive destination for professionals seeking to advance their careers.

Overall, with its robust engineering sector and supportive visa policies, Germany is a promising country for foreign engineers looking to work in a dynamic and innovative environment.