The Austrian economy has been hit hard by the pandemic, with a significant drop in GDP and an increase in the number of new unemployed (500,000), but this year the most affected sectors, such as retail or hospitality, will grow significantly. For the whole of 2022, strong growth is expected until 2023, thanks to the gradual easing of restrictions. So searching for jobs in Austria is not a impossible task.
Searching for jobs in Austria
Searching for jobs in Austria can be impossible, very difficult or very easy. It all depends on your degree, your skills and your knowledge of German. Remember that knowledge of English is not an advantage, as almost everyone in Austria knows this language.
You can also put it this way:
- If you are a highly skilled worker and EU citizen, speak acceptable German and your job is in demand in Austria, you are welcome
- If you are Islamic, against western values and try to come to Austria to claim Austrian social welfare, you are not welcome
As in all countries, it is easier to find work in the big cities. In order of importance, the cities where it is easiest to find work are as follows:
- Vienna
- Graz
- Linz
- Salzburg
- Innsbruck
It depends on the type of job you are looking for. Some cities are better suited for certain types of jobs. For example, if you are looking for a job in the hospitality industry, Innsbruck and Salzburg, as well as Vienna, are tourist destinations and offer good opportunities. For jobs in the kitchen or cleaning, only a basic knowledge of German is required.
On the other hand, if you are looking for an English-speaking job, Vienna is undoubtedly the best option. However, most foreigners choose Vienna, so competition for jobs is high.
Most in demand jobs in Austria
Small and medium-sized enterprises are the backbone of the Austrian economy. The Austrian companies with the most jobs are found in the following industries:
- Health, high demand for professions such as dentists, doctors, nurses, etc., which are among the highest paid professions in Austria
- Engineers, mechanical engineers, electronic technicians, etc.
- Construction trades, bricklayers, carpenters, etc
- IT, web developers, cybersecurity, etc.
- Tourism, Austria is one of the most important European tourist destinations
Work culture in Austria
The family is the building block on which the entire Austrian society is based. Families are generally small and perfectly integrated into the social context. Weekends are generally dedicated to relaxing activities and spending time with the family. Therefore, it is very important for Austrians to have a good balance between work, leisure and family.
It is no coincidence the government offers good maternity/paternity leave and the possibility of reducing the working day to be able to dedicate oneself to family commitments.
Let’s see what are the pillars of the work culture in Austria:
- Austrian work culture has a strict and well-defined hierarchy with clear distinctions between different roles
- Your level and professional status are based on the results you achieve and the skills you demonstrate in your professional field
- The work ethic in Austria is an essential part of the country’s work culture. Employees feel that they are an integral part of the company in which they work
- Work is organized according to routine procedures that follow standardized guidelines
- The percentage of working women in Austria is one of the highest in Europe
- In the workplace, if someone says they will do something, they do it. The same is expected of others. Never make a promise unless you are sure you can keep it. Austrians do not like shady people
- The average work week is about 40 hours. Overtime and vacation are based on the collective bargaining agreement
- Health and safety laws are strictly enforced
Searching for jobs in Austria, Conclusion
Austria is a good country to live and work in. The society is safe, crime and theft are rare. It is true that people are somewhat unfriendly and conservative, but if you manage to make friends with them, they are very friendly and helpful.
If you have an educational degree and work experience, you should have no trouble finding a job.
If you do not speak German, many jobs will not be accessible. The only sector where only people with English skills are hired is IT or some hospitality jobs as dishwashers or cleaners. On the other hand, if you are aiming for any other job, it will be very difficult without knowledge of German. 97% of employers expect you to know German. And even in jobs where only English is required, you will be expected to know at least a little German.
But if you manage to get a foothold in the Austrian labour market, you will be protected from exploitation, receive a decent wage, and be eligible for social assistance.
If you want all the information on how to work in Austria I suggest you read the article: Working in Austria
