Have you ever thought about contracting overseas?
From competitive pay to the chance to work at the forefront of technology, there are plenty of benefits to overseas contracting. At M&E, we typically recruit for contract roles in a variety of locations, from Europe to the Middle East – and a lot of our European roles are based in Germany.
So, if you’re considering a contract role in Germany, read on to find out what to expect, from culture and contract lengths to language and leisure time, we share our working abroad advice below...
FAQs about contracting in Germany:
Tell me more about life in Germany
First things first, why Germany? Well, for starters, Germany is known for its engineering, making it a popular choice for mechanics who want to boost their skill set, grow their experience and work with global operators on the latest technology.
Contract roles in Germany are also a great option for those who are just starting out contracting overseas because it is so close to the UK.
But it’s not just about the experience of working abroad; Germany is also a great place to live too. From cosmopolitan cities to rolling countryside, spectacular skiing resorts to beautiful beaches (yes really!) Germany truly has it all.
What kind of roles can I expect to undertake?
As we mentioned above, Germany is known for its engineering, so the contract roles available here are both varied and rewarding.
Two of the most popular locations for contract workers are Dulmen in north-eastern Germany and Mannheim in the south west. In these locations, we typically recruit for roles in maintenance, supply and transportation functions covering US ground support equipment and armoured vehicles such as M1 tanks, Bradley Fighting Vehicles, Humvees, HEMMTs, M109 Howitzer, M88 recover vehicles, M113 and M577 APC, to name but a few!
In fact, we have deployed over 500 personnel to date for positions such as vehicle mechanics, supply technicians, warehouse operatives, forklift operators, fuel specialists, quality control technicians, lead positions and more.
Other maintenance jobs we recruit for in Germany have included aircraft mechanics, avionics technicians, production control clerks, sheet metal workers and supply technicians. See – we told you there was variety!
Do I need to learn the language?
Rest assured that most of our contract roles are with US defence clients, so the language spoken within the workplace is English.
In fact, after more than 20 years of contracting experience, our longest-serving contractor can confirm that he has never had any issues with language barriers during all his time living and working in Germany.
Saying that though, if you do fancy learning a few words of the local language, it never hurts!
Where will I live?
At M&E Global, we are proud to provide a high level of support for all our contract workers, which means that we will help you source your accommodation ahead of your arrival. We’ll also help with visas and paperwork if necessary.
How can contracting in Germany help me progress my career?
If you’re looking to climb the career ladder fast, then overseas contracting is one of the best ways to do it. Because contract roles are typically for a fixed period of time, you’ll be able to change jobs at the end of each contract, giving you the chance to strategically plan your next move so you can reach your goals.
What’s more, when you undertake a contract role with M&E, you’ll have the chance to work on some of the most technologically advanced equipment and high spec machinery in the world – which means you will constantly be learning and adding to your skill set, no matter how many years of experience you have had.
Plus, you can strengthen your network of industry contacts too!
Is there any support?
As we said above, we pride ourselves on the level of support we provide for our contractors at M&E, and we would never simply place you in a role and leave you to it! As such, you will have a dedicated point of contact who will be able to help you with any issues and provide expert working abroad advice.
Can I bring my family?
One of the most common questions we’re asked by candidates who are new to overseas contracting is whether they can take their families with them.
Typically, this depends on the specific role, and if you do decide to bring your family with you, Germany is a great place to raise children and has a leading education system.
However, if your family remains in the UK, you’ll be close to multiple international airports, making it easy to return home.
What are the working hours?
This leads us nicely onto our next point! In Germany, our contractors typically work from Monday to Friday and have the weekends to themselves, so if you did want to head home to your family, you can do so frequently. If not, the weekends are yours to explore or travel around as you please.
How much will I be paid?
One of the biggest reasons that people are drawn to overseas contracting is the competitive pay; all our contract jobs require highly skilled workers, which is reflected in the wages.
Of course, you still need to work your way up the ladder, but nevertheless, contractors are usually paid more than they would typically receive in a permanent role.
What’s more, if you’re working with M&E, you can be sure that your wages will always be paid on time (usually weekly) – something that isn’t always guaranteed in contract work.
What about job security?
If you’re concerned about job security, don’t be. When you accept your contract job, you will sign a contract detailing the terms and duration of your employment and you’ll know exactly how long your contract is for from the start.
At M&E, we recruit for short to long term contract work, depending on the role, location and how long you wish to stay. And of course, if you do decide to undertake a short-term contract role, this will be reflected in a higher rate of pay to make up for any job security concerns.
How do I apply?
We’re glad you asked! To find out more about contract jobs in Germany or for further working abroad advice, contact one of our team today. They’ll be more than happy to help and advise you on the most suitable role for your skill set and answer any questions you might have.
Alternatively, why not have a look at the roles we are currently working on here.
