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Painting & decorating jobs in Germany for English speakers and foreigners 

Painting and decorating jobs in Germany present unique opportunities for skilled craftsmen looking to advance their careers in a vibrant and diverse market. With a strong demand for professional painters and decorators, individuals with the right qualifications have access to numerous job openings across various sectors. Whether it's refurbishing residential homes or transforming commercial spaces, the painting and decorating industry in Germany offers both creative satisfaction and financial stability.

Quick Facts

  • Top 3 companies for painting & decorating jobs in Germany:  BASF SE Ludwigshafen am Rhein, MEGA eG Hamburg, Brillux GmbH & Co. KG Münster

  • Top qualifications in demand:

    • Attention to detail

    • Good colour sense

    • Comfortable working at heights

    • Manual skills

  • Average salary: 46.844 €

  • Minimum wage: 34.679 €

Top Jobs

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Soboslikar u Njemačkoj (Bavarska) - Prijavi se sada (m/ž/d)

ne

osnovno (A2)

Burghausen

Construction

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

s podrškom

Painter

Soboslikar u Njemačkoj (Bavarska) - Prijavi se sada (m/ž/d)

ne

osnovno (A2)

Munich

Construction

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

s podrškom

Painter

Soboslikar u Njemačkoj (Bavarska) - Prijavi se sada (m/ž/d)

ne

osnovno (A2)

Dingolfing

Construction

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

s podrškom

Painter

Painter in Germany (Burghausen, Bavaria) - Hiring now (m/f/d)

no

basic (A2)

Burghausen

Construction

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

with support

Painter

Painter in Germany (Bavaria) - Hiring now (m/f/d)

no

basic (A2)

Dingolfing

Construction

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

with support

Painter

Painter in Germany (Munich, Bavaria) - Hiring now (m/f/d)

no

basic (A2)

Munich

Construction

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

with support

Painter

Maler in Festanstellung (Burghausen) - Hiring now (m/w/d)

Nein

Basis (A2)

Burghausen

Construction

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

Mit Unterstützung

Painter

Maler in Festanstellung (München) - Hiring now (m/w/d)

Nein

Basis (A2)

Munich

Construction

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

Mit Unterstützung

Painter

Maler in Festanstellung (Bayern) - Hiring now (m/w/d)

Nein

Basis (A2)

Dingolfing

Construction

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

Mit Unterstützung

Painter

Top painting and decorating jobs in Germany for English speakers

Germany offers a diverse range of opportunities for English-speaking professionals in the painting and decorating industry. Whether you're an experienced painter or just starting out, there are various roles that cater to different specialties and interests. From lead painters who manage teams on large projects to specialized roles like aircraft and car painters, the German job market is rich with possibilities. Here's a closer look at some of the top painting and decorating jobs available for English speakers in Germany:

  • Lead painter: Supervises painting teams, ensuring quality and timely completion of projects.

  • Interior painter: Focuses on the aesthetics of indoor spaces, applying paints and finishes to walls and ceilings.

  • House painter: Specializes in residential properties, enhancing exterior and interior surfaces.

  • Finish painter: Applies final touch-ups and detailed finishes to provide a polished look.

  • Metal painter: Works with metal surfaces, often in industrial settings, applying protective and decorative coatings.

  • Painter apprentice: Gains hands-on experience under the guidance of experienced painters, learning the trade.

  • Equipment painter: Specializes in painting commercial equipment, often requiring knowledge of durable paints.

  • Aircraft painter: Handles the specialized painting of airplanes, focusing on precision and durability.

  • Car painter: Specializes in automotive painting, from basic coverage to intricate custom designs.

 

Each of these roles requires a unique set of skills and offers the chance to work in dynamic environments.

Expand your knowledge about painting and decorating jobs in Germany for foreigners and English speakers

Whether you're just beginning your career or bringing years of experience, familiarizing yourself with the nuances of this sector can significantly enhance your job prospects. Here’s an insightful guide to help you navigate these essential aspects.

Are painting and decorating jobs in demand in Germany?

Painting and decorating jobs in Germany are experiencing significant growth. Several factors contribute to this surge:

  • Renovation and maintenance: There's a continuous demand for maintenance and renovation of existing structures, especially in Germany’s older, well-established urban areas. This ongoing need ensures a steady flow of work for skilled painters and decorators.
     

  • New construction projects: With the population growth and urbanization, new construction projects are frequently initiated, increasing the demand for professional painters and decorators who can deliver quality workmanship.
     

  • Environmental concerns: The German market shows a strong preference for painters and decorators who utilize environmentally friendly practices. This trend is driven by the country's commitment to energy-efficient building and renovation practices.

 

The demand for skilled professionals in this field is not only due to the volume of work available but also because of the evolving expectations for quality and sustainability in construction and maintenance.

 

Expanding your skills and adapting to the latest industry standards can set you apart from the competition and increase your employability. For those interested in taking advantage of this growing market, understanding these dynamics is key to securing stable and rewarding employment in Germany’s painting and decorating sector. If possible, consulting reliable sources can provide further validation of these job market trends, ensuring you are well-informed and prepared to meet the industry's needs.

How much do painting and decorating workers earn in Germany?

Painting and decorating is a skilled profession in Germany that offers competitive compensation based on experience and location. Here's a detailed overview of the salary structure for painters in Germany, which can help guide those looking to enter this field. These pay estimates are derived from salary survey data that was obtained directly from employers and anonymous workers in Germany.

Salary overview

  • Average salary: The typical painter earns an annual gross salary of 46.844 €, with an hourly wage between 21 and 25 €. Salaries can vary significantly depending on the region, with larger cities and areas requiring specialized services often offering higher pay.
     

  • Additional compensation: On average, painters receive an annual bonus of 1.396 €, which reflects their skill level and contribution to their employers.
     

  • Salary growth: According to Salary Expert, painter salaries in Germany are expected to increase by 15% over the next five years, projecting an average annual salary of 54.046 € by 2029.

Salary by experience

To provide a clearer picture of how experience influences earning potential within the painting and decorating industry, the following table outlines the average gross annual salary segmented by years of experience:

This salary structure demonstrates a significant growth potential for painting and decorating professionals as they gain more experience in the field. Entry-level positions start with a respectable salary, which substantially increases as painters advance in their careers and acquire more skills.

Regional variations

It's important to note that salaries in major metropolitan areas like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg may be higher due to the higher cost of living and the increased demand for specialized painting services. Conversely, rural or less populated areas might offer slightly lower wages.

Level of experience
Average annual salary (EUR)

What qualifications are needed for painting jobs in Germany for foreigners?

For foreigners seeking painting and decorating jobs in Germany, both technical abilities (hard skills) and interpersonal competencies (soft skills) are crucial. Whether you're new to the industry or bringing years of experience, preparing for the specific demands of painting jobs in Germany for foreigners will help you stand out in this competitive market. Here's an overview of the essential qualifications required:

Hard skills

  • Formal education and training:

    • Apprenticeship completion: Many employers prefer candidates who have completed a formal apprenticeship in painting and decorating.

    • Professional experience: Several years of experience in the field can greatly enhance employment opportunities, showcasing your capability and familiarity with various painting techniques.

    • Academic background: While not always mandatory, having at least a high school diploma or its equivalent can be beneficial.
       

  • Technical proficiency:

    • Mathematical skills: Basic math skills are necessary for tasks such as mixing paint to create specific colors and calculating surface areas to determine the quantity of materials needed.
       

  • Language skills:

    • German proficiency: Good command of the German language is often required to ensure effective communication on job sites and with clients.
       

  • Legal requirements:

    • Work permit and visa: Non-EU citizens must have the appropriate work permit and visa to legally work in Germany.

    • Health insurance: Valid health insurance is required for accessing healthcare services and for compliance with German regulations.

    • Driver’s license: While not essential for all jobs, having a Class B driver’s license is advantageous, especially for positions that may require travel between sites.

 

Soft skills

  • Attention to detail: Precision is key in painting and decorating to achieve high-quality finishes and meet customer satisfaction.

  • Communication skills: Effective communication is essential for understanding client requirements and working efficiently with team members.

  • Teamwork and collaboration: Ability to work well in a team environment, often necessary on larger projects or when working within a company.

  • Problem-solving skills: Capability to quickly identify issues and determine effective solutions, particularly when dealing with unexpected challenges during a project.

 

Additional considerations

  • Cultural understanding: Familiarity with local customs and business practices can be a significant advantage, helping to integrate more smoothly into the workforce.

  • Certifications: Specific certifications may not be universally required but possessing them can demonstrate a commitment to professional development and adherence to industry standards.

 

These qualfications form the foundation for a successful career in painting and decorating in Germany. For foreigners, aligning these qualifications with the expectations of German employers can significantly improve job prospects and career longevity in this creative and demanding field.

Employment contract/collective agreement for painting & decorating workers in Germany

If you want to work in the painting and decorating industry in Germany, understanding the German employment landscape is crucial. Here's a breakdown of the key employment terms and labor laws that specifically affect painting and decorating workers in Germany:

Collective bargaining agreements

In Germany, salaries and working conditions can either be negotiated individually between the employer and employee or collectively through trade unions. The painting and decorating sector often falls under collective agreements negotiated by trade unions and employers' associations, which set out minimum standards for salaries, working hours, and other employment conditions.

Minimum wage and salary payments

The sector's collective agreement stipulates a minimum wage, ensuring fair compensation across the industry. Wages are typically required to be paid by the fifteenth of the month following the pay period.

Working hours and breaks

The standard workweek for painting and decorating workers is approximately 40 hours, spread over five days. Employees are entitled to breaks, with a common arrangement being a 30-minute break for workdays exceeding six hours. Some contracts offer flexible working hours, depending on the employer and job requirements.

 

Overtime compensation

Overtime pay is usually calculated at 125% to 150% of the standard hourly rate, though the exact rate should be confirmed in the employment contract or collective agreement. Employers must approve overtime work, and it should comply with the guidelines set in the employment contract or applicable collective agreement.

Notice periods for termination

Notice periods can vary but typically range from one to three months, based on employment duration and contractual terms. During probation, notice periods are usually shorter, often around two weeks.

Health insurance

Health insurance is mandatory for all employees in Germany. Workers can be covered through the statutory health insurance system or private health insurance, with costs generally shared between the employer and employee.

Sick leave and paid leave

Employees are entitled to sick leave, with employers paying the full salary for the first six weeks of illness. Thereafter, sick pay is provided through statutory health insurance. Germany also offers generous statutory holiday benefits, with employees entitled to 24 to 30 paid vacation days per year.

Additional considerations for immigrants

For immigrants, especially those from the US or UK, it's important to note that the German system may differ significantly from what they are used to, particularly in terms of job security, health insurance, and employee benefits. Familiarizing oneself with these details before entering the job market can help ensure a smooth transition and avoid potential misunderstandings.

Understanding these employment standards and legal requirements is essential for any foreign worker entering the painting and decorating field in Germany. Being well-informed will not only help in negotiating with potential employers but also ensure compliance with German labor laws.

How to apply for painting & decorating jobs on hello jobs

What if you find an easier way to get in touch with companies who provide convenient jobs for you and your experience as a painter and decorator? The easiest way for you to find a convenient job is to apply at hello jobs. Here you get together with possible prospective employers.

 

Use the following steps which bring you closer to your favorite job by using this convenient appointment/application procedure:​​

 

Step 1 - Send application: Applying is straightforward, with a user-friendly interface on our website. You can select the job that interests you, click the "Apply" button on the job listing to start your application process.

 

Step 2 - Introduction call: Schedule an introduction call, where we discuss your preferences and ensure that the job aligns with your career goals.

 

Step 3 - Interview process: Successful candidates receive support for the interview process, including interview preparation and guidance on insurance and tax matters.

 

Step 4 - Job placement: Once interviews are successful, you receive recommendations for housing search and connections to our community.

The first contact usually occurs within five days of submitting your application, with the duration from initial contact to job placement typically ranging between 2 to 6 weeks.

 

Our team at hello jobs will be happy to navigate your job search with ease and confidence, setting the stage for a successful journey into the German job market.

Summary

Germany presents a multitude of opportunities for English-speaking and foreign workers in the painting and decorating industry. This guide has offered a comprehensive overview of the landscape for painting jobs in Germany for foreigners, detailing expected salaries, necessary qualifications, and the essential steps to embark on a career as a painter or decorator. If you are prepared to start your journey in this vibrant industry, your first steps should include evaluating your current qualifications, acquiring basic German language skills, and seeking out job opportunities. For a straightforward path to launching your career, visit hello-jobs.eu and discover how you can join one of Europe's most dynamic job markets.

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