Occupations and sectors

Parcel delivery is one of the most frequently filled roles under the Western Balkans regulation. A vocational qualification is usually not required — a category B licence is.

Courier work is more granular than parcel delivery: fewer stops, but time-critical consignments and often direct customer contact.

Warehouse work is the classic entry route without a licence or qualification. Large logistics centres hire year-round, mostly on shifts.

Order pickers assemble orders in the warehouse. The work is paced and usually measured by units — but it is quick to learn.

HGV drivers are sought across Germany. The job pays well but carries the highest additional requirements: a CE licence, initial qualification and usually recognition of your licence.

Delivery with a van or 7.5-tonne truck — the middle ground between parcel work and HGV. Often without code 95 if the vehicle stays under 3.5 t.

Building and civil engineering hire year-round. Anyone who has worked on sites can be placed without a German qualification — experience counts.

Assembly of plant, steelwork, windows or drywall. Often involves travel with allowances, and pays above average.

Electrical work is partly regulated in Germany. Entry as a helper or under supervision is possible; working independently may require formal recognition.

Heating, sanitation and ventilation are among the areas with the greatest skills shortage in Germany — and among the best-paid trades.

Welders with valid certifications are in demand and well paid. Existing ISO 9606 certificates significantly improve your chances.

Shift-based manufacturing: a fixed workplace, fixed hours, regulated supplements. Entry without a qualification, with training usually taking a few days.

Anyone who has run a production machine starts a step above helper level here — with pay to match.

Packaging is the lowest-threshold entry into industry. No qualification, no language barrier, clear processes.

Kitchen assistants are continually sought in restaurants, hotels and canteens. Often with accommodation and meals provided by the employer.

Chefs with experience find work quickly. Hands-on experience in a comparable kitchen carries more weight than a formal qualification.

Language matters more in service than in the kitchen or warehouse. In return, tips and settled teams are a good reason to start here.

Hotel housekeeping is predictable, physically demanding and has a low language threshold. In tourist regions often with staff accommodation.