Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria. It is known for its imperial history, vibrant culture scene, and high quality of life. Vienna has a strong economy with low unemployment rates, making it an attractive destination for job seekers. The city is home to international organizations like the United Nations and OPEC, as well as companies in fields like technology, pharmaceuticals, and engineering.
If you are considering applying for jobs in Vienna, it is important to understand the job market and requirements. This article will provide an overview of how to find and apply for jobs as a foreigner in Vienna, Austria.
Finding Job Opportunities in Vienna
When looking for jobs in Vienna, here are some good resources to utilize:
Online Job Portals
Popular online job sites used in Austria include:
– Karriere.at – Largest job portal in Austria with listings in German and English.
– StepStone.at – Site focused on executive and specialist roles.
– Monster.at – Global recruitment site with Austrian opportunities.
– Indeed.com – International job aggregator with Vienna job postings.
These sites allow you to search for opportunities by keyword, location, job type, salary range and other filters. Creating alerts can notify you when new relevant jobs are posted.
Recruitment Agencies
There are many recruitment agencies that can assist with finding work in Vienna. They have existing relationships with local employers to fill open positions. Some agencies to consider include:
– AMS Public Employment Service – Government agency with job and career support.
– ManpowerGroup – Global staffing firm with office in Vienna.
– Hays – International recruiting experts focused on skilled professionals.
– Adecco – Large staffing company with office located in Vienna.
– Robert Half – Specialists in accounting, finance and technology recruiting.
Connecting with recruiters can provide inside access to unadvertised roles based on your skills and experience.
Company Career Sites
Look directly on company websites for open positions in Vienna. Multinational corporations like Siemens, IBM, and Booz Allen all have offices in the city. Other major local employers include Erste Bank, Wienerberger, and Österreichische Post.
Follow companies on LinkedIn and social media to stay updated on new openings. You can also proactively contact HR managers about potential fit for unpublished roles.
Networking Events
Attend networking events to connect directly with professionals and employers in Vienna. The Vienna Economic Chamber offers regular career networking events. There are also industry events for fields like technology and engineering.
Networking Event | Website |
---|---|
Vienna Economic Chamber Events | https://www.wko.at |
Meetup Vienna Tech | https://www.meetup.com/vienna-tech/ |
Network Night Vienna | https://www.eventbrite.com/e/network-night-vienna-tickets-51012030459 |
In-person networking allows you to make connections and increase your visibility with the local professional community.
Alumni Networks
Leverage alumni networks from universities and companies to find opportunities. For example, Vienna University of Economics and Business has an alumni association with job boards. Alumni groups on LinkedIn can also provide contacts at companies hiring in Vienna.
Applying for a Job in Vienna
When applying for jobs in Vienna, you need to prepare a strong application that meets local norms and standards. Here are some tips:
Resume
– Austrian CVs are structured, concise 1-2 pages without photos.
– List education, experience, skills, languages, and hobbies/interests.
– Make sure to translate resume into German (with English version).
– Adapt resume keywords and format preferred by employer.
Cover Letter
– Address cover letter to hiring manager with professional salutation.
– Highlight relevant skills, achievements, and motivation in German.
– Do not just repeat CV – add specific details on fit.
– Close with appreciation for consideration. Provide contact info.
Application Documents
– Certificates, reference letters, work samples may be required.
– Have documents translated or notarized if needed.
– Be ready to provide criminal background check if requested.
Interview Prep
– Research company, role, and prepare examples that showcase skills.
– Practice common Austrian interview questions and think of stories to answer them.
– Dress professionally in suit and minimal accessories for the interview.
– Arrive early and greet interviewers by shaking hands and using last names.
Understanding the Job Market in Vienna
When looking for work in Vienna, it helps to understand trends in the local job market:
Low Unemployment
– Vienna has a strong job market with only about 5% unemployment.
– Wide range of opportunities available, but still competitive.
Growing Industries
– Technology and digital media hiring due to Vienna’s emergence as startup hub.
– Healthcare demand increasing with aging population.
– Skilled trades needed in construction, electrical, plumbing.
Multilingual Professionals
– Fluency in German is required for most jobs. English is also highly valued.
– Bilingual candidates have advantage in global companies.
Formal Hiring Process
– Cover letters, CVs, documents required for most professional roles
– Multiple rounds of interviews common, can take weeks or months
Cultural Fit
– Personality and cultural suitability weighed strongly when hiring.
– Understand importance of punctuality, order, and precision in workplace.
Requirements for Working in Vienna
There are certain legal requirements to fulfill in order to work in Vienna as a foreign citizen:
Work Permit
– Citizens of EU, EEA, and Switzerland can work freely with just residence registration.
– Other foreign nationals require work permit approved by AMS Public Employment Service.
– Permit tied to specific employer, position, salary level. Annual renewal required.
Residence Permit
– Non-EU citizens need an Austrian residence permit for long-term stay.
– Permit for employees allows multi-year residency with health insurance.
– Typically obtained after securing a job offer and work permit.
Visa for Austria
– If coming from outside the EU, likely need a National Visa (D-Visa) first.
– Long-stay visas processed through embassy/consulate in home country.
– Provides entry clearance and ability to apply for permits in Austria.
Recognition of Qualifications
– Academic and professional credentials must be recognized in Austria.
– Involve process of verification through government agencies.
– Some fields like healthcare have strict licensing requirements.
Tax Number
– After securing right to work, must register with local tax office.
– Provides tax identification number needed for employment.
– Requires documents including work permit, passport, and proof of address.
Meeting legal requirements takes advance planning but ensures your ability to live and work legally in Vienna. Consulting an immigration lawyer can help navigate the process smoothly.
Top Jobs and Skills in Demand in Vienna
Some top occupations and specialized skills that are in high demand in Vienna currently include:
Information Technology
– Software Developers
– Programmers
– IT Project Managers
– Data Scientists
– Web Developers
Skills: Python, Java, C++, SQL, Linux, Agile
Engineering
– Electrical Engineers
– Mechanical Engineers
– Civil Engineers
– Chemical Engineers
– Technical Designers
Skills: AutoCAD, PLC, ProEngineer, CATIA
Healthcare
– Nurses
– General Practitioners
– Specialist Physicians
– Elder Caregivers
– Physical Therapists
Skills: Languages, Gerontology, EMR Software
Skilled Trades
– Construction Workers
– Electricians
– Plumbers
– Welders
– HVAC Technicians
Skills: Technical certifications, Apprenticeships
Accounting and Finance
– Accountants
– Financial Analysts
– Auditors
– Controllers
– Actuaries
Skills: SAP, SQL, GAAP, CFA
There is strong demand for both highly-skilled and vocational roles across these fields in Vienna. Developing expertise in niche technical skills can help you stand out.
Tips for Foreigners Seeking Jobs in Vienna
As a foreigner looking for work in Vienna, following this advice can increase your chances of success:
Improve your German skills
– Learn German to at least a conversational level.
– Take evening language classes while in Vienna.
– Watch TV shows, read news, use language apps to advance faster.
Familiarize yourself with work culture
– Understand cultural work norms like formality and order.
– Be punctual. Follow rules and processes.
– Respect authority and hierarchy in companies.
Focus your job search
– Pinpoint roles matching your exact education and experience.
– Target multinational companies likely to sponsor foreign applicants.
– Consider temporary contracts to gain local experience.
Use your networks
– Connect with others who have worked in Vienna through LinkedIn, alumni associations.
– Join relevant professional associations and utilize connections.
– Attend industry events and chat with attendees.
Consider getting additional training
– Complete a degree, bootcamp, or certification program in Austria.
– Enroll in German language school with career support services.
– Volunteering can help gain new skills too.
Take steps to boost your qualifications, cultural awareness, and personal contacts to maximize your chances of securing a position.
Conclusion
Vienna offers an excellent quality of life and broad range of career opportunities. With low unemployment and high demand for skilled professionals, it is an appealing destination for job seekers. By learning the language, researching the market, and following hiring norms, foreigners can successfully find work in Vienna. Utilizing online job sites, recruitment firms, career networking events, and alumni connections are all effective ways to search for opportunities. Once you secure a position, fulfilling legal requirements for work and residence permits allows you to thrive in your new job in Vienna.