Starting a career as an engineer in Germany can be an exciting and fulfilling path because the country is known for its advanced technology, strong economy, and excellence in engineering. It also provides room for career growth, great remuneration, and extensive career advancement opportunities.
Hence, in this article, we will guide you through the steps to becoming an engineer in Germany covering the type of work visa you need, the average salary, and steps on how to successfully become an engineer. Therefore, read this article until the end for all the necessary information on how to kickstart your engineering career in Germany.
How to Become an Engineer in Germany
Step 1. Gain Practical Experience
Before getting a job as an engineer in Germany, employers want to know if you have practical experience that qualifies you for the position. This is why gaining hands-on experience as an engineer before coming to Germany is important. If you’re a recent graduate with little work experience, there are ways to show that you have enough experience to work as an engineer.
You can do this by joining co-op or internship programs during your studies, these programs let you work in real-world settings. You can also alternate between working and studying, which will help you collect practical hours. However, it’s important to do well in your studies while gaining hands-on experience. This way, even if you’re a new graduate, you can show that you have the practical experience needed to become an engineer in Germany.
Step 2. Learn German
German is the official language of Germany. Therefore, as a foreign engineer working in Germany, you will need to learn the language to effectively communicate. Many employers in Germany also require foreign workers to have a good knowledge of reading, speaking, and writing the language.
Employers in Germany will often require proof of language proficiency from foreign workers to assess the proficiency levels of foreign engineers. Applicants can then demonstrate their language proficiency through language tests administered by language schools, universities, or independent assessment centers.
Additionally, submitting work samples or projects completed in German, along with letters of recommendation from language instructors or colleagues, can serve as evidence of proficiency.
PRO TIP: Even if your employer does not require you to be proficient in German, it is recommended to learn the local language. This way, you will be able to effectively communicate with your co-workers. Here are some of the best language schools to learn German.
Step 3. Get the Required License
In Germany, engineers don’t need to officially register or get a license because no specific organization regulates the profession. However, the title “Ingenieur” (engineer) is protected by the Engineer Law.
This means that only people who have completed at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering, which typically takes about three years of study, are allowed to use this title. So, while there’s no formal licensing process, there are rules about who can call themselves an engineer in Germany, which includes applying for approval to be able to use the professional title of “engineer” before you start practicing.
Step 4. Have your Engineering Qualification Verified
Since your qualification as an engineer wasn’t obtained in Germany, your engineering degree will have to be verified by the Fédération Européenne d’Associations Nationales d’Ingénieurs or European Federation of National Engineering Associations, which is the federation of national professional bodies that represents engineers in European countries.
The verification will done in accordance with the association’s conditions to determine if it is valid. However before you can apply, you must first be a member of a recognized engineering association.
Step 5. Apply for Engineering Jobs
To apply for engineering jobs in Germany as a foreign engineer, start by understanding what the job requires. Then, update your resume and write a cover letter that explains why you’re a good fit for the position. You can also create a LinkedIn profile and check websites like Indeed or LinkedIn Jobs and look at the company websites for job postings. You can also connect with people in Germany through events and online platforms.
After applying, consider following up to show continued interest. Prepare for interviews by talking about your experiences and skills, emphasizing your ability to adapt and understand different cultures. Also, check the licensing rules in the province where you want to work.
FAQS on Becoming an Engineer in Germany
What Type of Work Visa/Work Permit is Required for non-German Engineers?
If you’re a non-German engineer looking to work in Germany, you’ll likely need a work permit. Non-German engineers will be required to process a German work visa, enabling them to start working there. Prospective engineers must also obtain a residence permit before they are eligible to start work.
Applying for a German work visa usually takes one to three months for the visa application to be approved. However, the processing time still depends on the number of visa applications received by the embassy.
Another type of visa foreign engineers in Germany can apply for is the EU Blue Card. A permit that lasts as long as you work and basically lets you live and work in Germany. However, to be qualified, you need a university degree and a job offer that pays at least €39,624 per year.
What is the Average Salary for Foreign Engineers in Germany?
Foreign engineers in Germany typically earn 60,000 EUR per year. However, the salary may vary based on a few things like their work experience, what type of engineering they do, and the location of their work. Non-German engineers with entry-level experience typically earn around 64,000 EUR annually, while more experienced engineers can earn around 85,000 EUR a year.
The area of specialization also determines how much foreign engineers will earn. For instance, software engineers typically earn 68,250 EUR yearly, while chemical, mechanical, and electrical engineering, which are considered Germany’s top engineering specializations, are paid higher. But it’s important to know that this amount can change depending on the job requirements and availability.
To sum up, if you want to be an engineer in Germany, focus on getting the proper education and gaining practical experience so you can fit into the work environment. Additionally, learning German and considering extra certifications will give you an added advantage. Keep learning, connect with others, and stay updated on what’s happening in your field for a successful engineering career in Germany.
Hopefully, this article will serve as a guide in your journey to become a successful engineer in Germany. If you are planning to study abroad, head on over to our Study in Germany and Open Courses for more details about studying in this European powerhouse – from the different universities to the numerous scholarship opportunities!
