Working in Germany

The work week of the Germans is similar to the habits in the United States of America. Usually, people work from 8.00 or 9.00 a.m. until 4.00 or 5.00 pm. In the competitive economy the 40 hours workweek is the norm while people in public service work less. 35 to 38 hours a week is usual in that sector.  

But especially in office jobs many people work longer than the 40 hours week in their contract. Either to boost their careers or simply because they have so much work to do. The salaries depend on work experience and job requirements. Fresh graduates who start their working life in a sales department earn about 35.000 € a year (approximately 47.000 $). Consultants earn about 38.000 € at the beginning. In major corporations the salaries tend to be higher than in smaller companies. Benefits like vacation pay and Christmas bonus are also not unusual in Germany. Many companies start to offer more and more sports and leisure activities to their employees.

The German economy is slowly developing from an industrial society to a service society. “Made in Germany” is still a sign of quality, but like the US, many companies produce their goods in emerging markets like China, Taiwan or Korea because it is cheaper.

But this development is criticised more and more. The quality of the products is ceasing and companies begin to reconsider their strategies.

If you are looking for a job in Germany you can search for vacancies at toytowngermany.com. There you will find English speaking job offers for the whole German country.