You’ve survived 3 years of frugal living, exams, and early mornings. You hold your shiny Gesellenbrief (Journeyman’s Certificate).
Now, the payday. What happens to your bank account on Day 1 of full employment?
The jump from “Trainee Salary” to “Skilled Worker Salary” is massive. It is the moment your investment pays off. Here is what you can realistically expect to earn in your first year as a qualified professional in jobs in Germany.
The “Jump” Effect
- Trainee Salary (Year 3): ~€1,100 Net.
- Starting Salary (Full Time): ~€2,200 – €3,000 Net (depending on tax class).
- Impact: Your income essentially doubles or triples overnight.
Typical Starting Salaries (Gross/Month) for 2026 Graduates
These figures are based on current collective agreements (Tarif) and market averages.
- Nursing (Pflegefachkraft):
- Start: €3,200 – €3,600 Gross.
- Plus: Shift bonuses (nights/weekends) can add €300-€500 net/month.
- Demand: Infinite. You can negotiate.
- IT Specialist (Fachinformatiker):
- Start: €3,500 – €4,200 Gross.
- Growth: Fastest growth potential. Senior devs earn €70k-€90k/year within 5-7 years.
- Industrial Mechanic (Industriemechaniker):
- Start: €3,000 – €3,500 Gross.
- Sector: If you work for a car manufacturer (IG Metall tariff), this is often higher.
- Hotel Specialist (Hotelfachmann/-frau):
- Start: €2,400 – €2,800 Gross.
- Reality Check: This sector pays less than industry, but tips can supplement income.
- Sales/Office Clerk:
- Start: €2,500 – €3,000 Gross.
The “Probezeit” (Again)
Remember, your first permanent contract will likely have a new 6-month probation period. However, since the company trained you, you are much safer than an external hire.
Conclusion
The 3 years of training are a financial struggle. But the moment you graduate, you enter the German middle class. You gain access to full social security benefits, paid vacation (30 days), and the ability to finance a car or apartment. Hang in there—it pays off.
References
- Gehalt.de: Salary Atlas Germany
- Kununu: Salary Insights