Largest Companies in Germany

Whether you’re a job seeker or an aspiring entrepreneur, Germany has a lot to offer. Germany is Europe’s economic powerhouse and is known for its strong job market and thriving startup scene. The economy is stable and constantly growing. There are many opportunities for skilled professionals from all around the world. From cutting-edge technology and engineering to healthcare and renewable energy – there’s a place for everyone.

Top companies: Overview of the German market

As the largest economy in Europe and the third largest globally, Germany is an attractive destination for professionals seeking long-term career opportunities. The country is known for its high standard of living, excellent infrastructure, and a comprehensive social security system. Many industries are growing, creating jobs for locals and internationals. The country’s focus on innovation, technology, and sustainability ensures there’s always a need for new talent.

Germany’s economy is diverse with strong sectors such as automotive, engineering, healthcare, IT and renewable energy. This diversity helps the German economy withstand global shocks and provides many job opportunities. Germany also has a well-established system of vocational training and apprenticeships, ensuring a steady supply of skilled workers. Industries like Artificial Intelligence, biotechnology and green technology are expected to grow and create new jobs. Staying informed about these trends can help you find a job and plan your career.

Largest German companies: In-demand professions

Germany’s diverse and thriving industries offer many opportunities for international professionals. By focusing on these key sectors and understanding the in-demand roles (“bottleneck professions”) you can pursue a successful career.

Healthcare and Wellness

As more people focus on staying healthy, jobs in healthcare and wellness are on the rise. There’s a big need for all kinds of healthcare services, especially for the aging population.

Jobs in demand

• Medical wellness professionals: Experts who combine healthcare with wellness practices.
• Nurses and caregivers: Heart of the healthcare services, caring for patients every day.
• Elderly care specialists: Dedicated to helping older adults live comfortably.
• Physiotherapists: Helping patients recover and keep moving.

Top organizations: Charité, Asklepios Kliniken, Fresenius Medical Care

Education and Social Services

Education and social care help build a stronger society. Germany places a big emphasis on quality education and social support, creating lots of opportunities for professionals.

Jobs in demand

• Teachers and educators: From kindergarten to college.
• Social workers: Supporting and strengthening communities.
• Childcare providers: Essential for early childhood development.

Top companies: Bertelsmann, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), and various public educational institutions

Sales and Management

Businesses need great sales teams and smart management to thrive. As businesses grow, they need people to promote products and keep everything running smoothly.

Jobs in demand

• Sales professionals: Experts in customer relationship and product promotion.
• Managers: Leaders who organize, plan, and push businesses to succeed.

Top companies: Siemens, SAP, Allianz

Engineering and Technical Fields

Germany is well-known for its engineering and technical innovations. These are important for keeping the country at the forefront of manufacturing and technology.

Jobs in demand

• Engineers: From mechatronics to automobile engineering.
• Technical specialists: Experts in building systems and infrastructure.
• IT professionals: Keeping up with the digital world.

Top companies: Bosch, BMW, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, Daimler, Volkswagen, Schaeffler

Metal and Construction Industries

These industries are the backbone of Germany's infrastructure. People in these fields are responsible for everything from skyscrapers to detailed metalwork. They’re basically the engine of growth and development.

Jobs in demand

• Construction workers: Building the future of Germany, one project at a time.
• Metalworkers: Crafting everything from bridges to buildings.

Top companies: Thyssenkrupp, Hochtief, BASF, HeidelbergCement

Transportation and Logistics

Due to its central location, Germany is a transportation and logistics hub in Europe. This sector is essential for moving goods in and out of the country.

Jobs in demand

• Logistics managers: Orchestrating the journey of goods across the globe.
• Transport operators: Driving trains and managing freight.

Top companies: Deutsche Post DHL Group, DB Schenker, Lufthansa

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Largest companies by market capitalization in Germany 2024

Understanding which companies are the largest by market capitalization, i.e. the total value of a company's shares, gives you a great insight into the economic landscape of Germany. These companies are leaders in their industries, but they also play a significant role in the global market.

Market capitalization relates to how big a company is, both in terms of size and influence. It’s calculated by multiplying a company’s share price by its total number of outstanding shares. It’s a quick way to understand a company’s size and market value. Many market participants view companies with high market caps as more stable and influential in the market.

CompaniesMarketCap.com, January 2024

Starting your own firm: Opportunities for entrepreneurs in Germany

Germany is not only a great place for job seekers but also for people looking to start their own businesses. It has large startup ecosystem, strong support networks and many opportunities in different sectors. Germany offers a welcoming environment for anyone looking to start or grow their own business. Cities like Berlin, Munich and Hamburg are bustling with innovation. Berlin, in particular, is known as the startup capital of Europe, offering a vibrant community and many resources for new businesses.

• Technology: AI, FinTech, and software development are all booming in the tech startup world.
• E-commerce: The online retail space is growing fast, offering lots of opportunities for new business models.
• Biotech: Germany’s strong research institutions and funding opportunities make it a great place for biotech startups.
• Green Tech: Startups that focus on sustainability are in high demand, creating solutions for a cleaner future.
  
  

Support for startups

• The German government offers a lot of different grants and loans to help new businesses get off the ground. Programs like EXIST give university graduates a leg up by funding research that can be turned into market-ready products.
• Tax incentives for startups also help reduce the financial burden during the early stages of a business.
• Startup Accelerators & Incubators offer mentorship, office space, and resources to help you develop your business idea. Some well-known incubators include Berlin Startup Academy and Plug and Play Tech Center.
• Programs like Techstars and Y Combinator provide intensive mentorship and support, often culminating in a demo day where you can pitch to investors.
  
  

Networking opportunities

• Tech Open Air (TOA): This annual tech festival in Berlin brings together entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators.
• Bits & Pretzels: This startup festival in Munich attracts thousands of founders, investors and journalists from around the world.
• Local meetups: Many cities have regular meetups for entrepreneurs, such as Startup Grind and Founders Breakfast.
  
  

Working for a company in Germany: What you need

Starting a career in Germany can be exciting, but it’s important to understand the job market and what you need to do to succeed. With these steps, you’ll be well on your way to securing a job in Germany and enjoying the benefits of working in this country.

Work Permits and visas

If you’re not from the EU/EEA or Switzerland, you need a work permit to get a job in Germany. The type of permit you need depends on your qualifications and the job you apply for.

3 examples of visa types

• Opportunity Card: A points-based immigration system that allows skilled professionals to move to Germany for one year and seek employment on the spot.
• Job Seeker Visa: This visa allows you to stay for up to six months while you look for employment. Once you find a job, you can get a work permit.
• Blue Card: A work and residence permit for highly qualified non-EU nationals, allowing them to live and work in any EU country (except Denmark and Ireland) by meeting certain requirements, such as having a university degree and a valid employment contract with a salary above a certain threshold.

Language requirements

Many companies in Germany operate in English, especially in tech and international firms. However, knowing German can give you a big advantage. It helps with everyday life and shows potential employers that you’re serious about integrating into the culture. There are plenty of ways to learn the language e.g. language classes at local schools, online platforms such as Duolingo, Babbel, and the Goethe-Institut.

Crafting your application

• Resume/CV (Lebenslauf): A German resume is short and may include a photo. List your skills, experience, and education in a clear format.
• Cover Letter: Tailor your cover letter to the specific job and company. Explain why you’re a good fit and express your enthusiasm for the role.
• Certificates and References: Include copies of relevant certificates and letters of recommendation as these are often expected in Germany.

For more information on the German application process, click here.