Mechanical Engineering Jobs in Germany for Foreigners: Salaries, Visa & How to Apply

Explore Mechanical Engineering Jobs in Germany for Foreigners. Learn about salaries, visa sponsorship, top employers, and how to apply for design, automotive, R&D, and production roles in 2026. Germany is home to world-leading industries such as automotive, aerospace, robotics, and manufacturing, creating high demand for skilled mechanical engineers. Foreign professionals with technical expertise, design skills, and project management experience can find lucrative opportunities with visa sponsorship.

This guide covers job types, salaries, visa options, top employers, requirements, and application steps in 2026.

Why Work as a Mechanical Engineer in Germany?

1. High Demand for Skilled Engineers – Germany actively recruits mechanical engineers to fill skill shortages.

2. Competitive Salaries – Mechanical engineers earn €50,000 – €90,000+ per year, depending on experience.

3. Visa Sponsorship Opportunities – Employers can sponsor work visas or EU Blue Card for foreigners.

4. Career Growth – Opportunities to become Senior Engineer, Project Manager, or R&D Specialist.

5. Exposure to Advanced Technology – Work in automotive, aerospace, robotics, and manufacturing sectors.

6. High Quality of Life – Germany offers excellent healthcare, infrastructure, and work-life balance.

Types of Mechanical Engineering Jobs in Germany

Foreigners can explore different roles depending on experience and specialization:

1. Design & Development Engineer

• Designs mechanical components, systems, and products.

• Salary: €50,000 – €75,000/year

2. Production / Manufacturing Engineer

• Optimizes manufacturing processes, ensures efficiency, and manages production lines.

• Salary: €55,000 – €80,000/year

3. Automotive Mechanical Engineer

• Develops engines, vehicle components, and automotive systems.

• Salary: €60,000 – €85,000/year

4. Project & R&D Engineer

• Manages engineering projects, research, and innovation initiatives.

• Salary: €65,000 – €90,000/year

5. Quality & Maintenance Engineer

• Oversees equipment maintenance, ensures quality control, and implements safety standards.

• Salary: €50,000 – €75,000/year

Average Salaries for Mechanical Engineering Jobs in Germany

Salaries vary depending on city, company, and experience. Munich, Stuttgart, and Frankfurt typically offer the highest salaries.

Top Employers of Mechanical Engineers in Germany

Foreigners can find opportunities with:

• Automotive Companies – BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche

• Aerospace & Aviation – Airbus, Lufthansa Technik, MTU Aero Engines

• Manufacturing & Industrial Firms – Siemens, Bosch, Thyssenkrupp

• Engineering & Consulting Firms – Fichtner, Ramboll, TÜV SÜD

• Research & Development Institutes – Fraunhofer Society, Max Planck Institutes

Visa Sponsorship for Foreign Mechanical Engineers

Foreigners typically require a work visa or EU Blue Card to work legally in Germany:

• EU Blue Card – For highly skilled professionals with a university degree and a job offer with a minimum salary of ~€56,800/year (€44,304 for shortage occupations like engineers in 2026).

• German Work Visa – For non-EU nationals with a job offer in their field.

• Employer Sponsorship – Companies often provide support with visa applications and relocation.

• Relocation Assistance – Some employers offer help with housing, flights, and settling in Germany.

Requirements for Mechanical Engineering Jobs

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

• Experience in design, production, R&D, or automotive systems

• Knowledge of CAD software, mechanical simulations, and manufacturing processes

• Proficiency in English; German language skills are highly advantageous

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and teamwork skills

How to Apply for Mechanical Engineering Jobs in Germany

1: Prepare Your Resume

• Use a German-style CV, highlighting degrees, certifications, projects, and technical skills.

2: Gather Certifications

• Professional certifications in mechanical design, Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, or project management are advantageous

3: Apply Online

• Company Career Portals – BMW, Siemens, Volkswagen, Airbus

• LinkedIn Jobs Germany – filter for mechanical engineering positions with visa support

• Indeed Germany & StepStone – search for engineering roles with sponsorship

4: Prepare for Interviews

• Technical interview: mechanical principles, CAD, project experience, manufacturing knowledge

• Behavioral interview: teamwork, problem-solving, and project management skills

5: Visa & Relocation

• Employer may sponsor EU Blue Card or work visa

• Relocation support may include temporary housing, flights, and legal documentation

Best Locations for Mechanical Engineering Jobs in Germany

• Munich – Automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing hubs

• Stuttgart – Headquarters of Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and Bosch

• Frankfurt – Industrial and corporate engineering roles

• Berlin – R&D, startups, and technology-driven engineering projects

• Düsseldorf & Hamburg – Industrial manufacturing and logistics sectors

Tips to Increase Your Chances

• Obtain relevant certifications in CAD, Six Sigma, or Lean Manufacturing.
• Highlight project management, R&D, or automotive experience on your CV.
• Apply to companies that sponsor EU Blue Card or work visas.
• Learn basic German to increase employability.
• Network via LinkedIn, engineering associations, and German industry events.

Final Thoughts

For foreign professionals, mechanical engineering jobs in Germany offer high-paying, rewarding, and internationally recognized career opportunities. With demand for skilled engineers growing, now is the perfect time to enter Germany’s industrial and automotive sectors.

If you have the right qualifications, technical expertise, and certifications, Germany provides an excellent environment to advance your career while enjoying high quality of life and global exposure.