From the MP3 to the diesel engine, Germany has a long history of technological innovation.
It’s therefore no surprise it is among the most technologically advanced countries in the world, with the nation’s tech industry worth an estimated €280 billion and enjoying massive 20% growth in 2022.
As such, Germany is a prime location for tech workers looking for pastures new, with the country previously topping the list of the most desired European destinations for tech professionals to relocate to.
That’s without even mentioning the benefits of living in Germany generally, from its high standard of living and booming economy, to the country’s stunning scenery and welcoming culture.
If you’re considering making this move yourself, which tech careers in Germany provide the best opportunities? Find out below.
1.) SAP Consultant
The biggest tech business in Germany is SAP, a multinational software company located in Walldorf, Baden-Württemberg.
Formed in 1972, it’s primarily known for its flagship SAP enterprise resource planning (ERP) system.
With almost half a million companies worldwide now using its products, SAP has become an industry — and therefore career path — in and of itself.
The most common job in the sector is that of a SAP consultant. These professionals help businesses implement, use and maintain SAP’s software solutions, with duties including things like troubleshooting, creating user guides, and examining company requirements to recommend SAP solutions.
As SAP recruitment experts Eursap explain, this career path “offers challenging work, teaching cross-transferable skills and offering on-the-job learning. It is well-paid, in demand, and offers great career progression opportunities.”
2.) Data Scientist
The role of a data scientist involves extracting, analysing, and interpreting vast amounts of data for companies to help drive decision making.
There’s high demand for such workers in Germany, with a massive growth in job postings there in recent years.
More specifically, there are plenty of opportunities in German cities like Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt, Koln, and Dusseldorf.
In addition, data scientists earn around €66,000 on average per year in Germany, with salaries rising by 15-20% over the last five years.
Aside from great pay, working as a data scientist in Germany offers a range of other benefits. These include the opportunity to make a huge impact at companies and on the planet, high job security, and a growing number of opportunities as the field develops.
3.) Software Engineer
According to Schengen Visa Info, software engineers are among the most sought-after professions full-stop in Germany, with over 13,000 vacancies currently being advertised.
This is similar to the number of new healthcare professionals and electricians required, and therefore makes it a great tech career to pursue considering the near guaranteed job opportunities.
Software engineers deal with the design, development, testing, and maintenance of software applications, and enjoy benefits like high job satisfaction, opportunities for growth, and flexible working.
Salaries are high in Germany too — an entry level software engineer there earns €63.361 on average, while the average senior level software engineer receives a salary of €112.448.
Among the best locations for software engineers in the country include Berlin, Munich, Stuttgart, and Hamburg.
4.) Business Analyst
A business analyst works to improve a business’s processes, products, services, and software through data analysis.
This enables them to determine requirements and provide data recommendations to executives and stakeholders.
Among the main benefits of being a business analyst include a fast-paced career, high organizational visibility, and exposure to multiple sectors.
As Life-in-Germany.de points out: “Business analysts are in high demand across a variety of industries in Germany, including finance, healthcare, retail, and manufacturing.”
The platform also notes that such professionals are typically employed by large corporations, consulting firms, and software development companies, in addition to government agencies and non-profit organizations.
Meanwhile, the average business analyst salary in Germany is €84.762, according to Salary Expert.
5.) Video Game Tester
Being a video game tester is a dream job for many, and understandably so. It gives individuals the opportunity to literally get paid to game, constantly use their creative and analytical skills, and gain an insider’s view of the gaming industry.
Germany is the perfect place to launch or continue a video game tester career. Gaming platform Game Developer explains that “there are hundreds of game developers and studios spread out over the 16 federal states”, from the likes of “Crytek in Frankfurt, one of the most notable names in the industry, to smaller up-and-comers like Mimimi Games in Munich.”
Consequently, there’s plenty of opportunities for video game testers. With such professionals also earning €61,997 a year on average there, Germany’s a lucrative location to boot.