Best Job Search Platforms in Austria

Finding a job in Austria follows a structured process. Here are the key steps to get started:

• 1

  Create an Austrian-style CV (Lebenslauf) with photo

  Austrian CVs include a professional photo, date of birth, and nationality. Use a European format with education, work experience, and language skills with CEFR levels.

• 2

  Register on karriere.at and LinkedIn

  These two platforms cover the majority of Austrian job listings. Set up job alerts for your field and location to receive new matches daily.

• 3

  Check the AMS job database for shortage occupations

  The AMS eJob-Room lists positions from employers registered with the public employment service, including roles on the Mangelberufsliste relevant for work visa applications.

• 4

  Apply with a cover letter (Bewerbungsschreiben)

  Many Austrian employers expect a formal cover letter alongside your CV. For German-language positions, the cover letter should be in German. Tailor each application to the specific role and company.

• 5

  Network at events and on XING/LinkedIn

  Networking is important in Austria. Attend industry events, join expat meetups in Vienna, and connect with recruiters on LinkedIn and XING (the German-speaking equivalent of LinkedIn).

The Austrian CV (Lebenslauf) follows European conventions that differ from US or UK formats. Here is what to include:

• Professional photo: Standard in Austria. Use a high-quality headshot with neutral background.
• Personal details: Full name, date of birth, nationality, address, phone, and email.
• Education (Ausbildung): List degrees and qualifications with exact titles. Include your university name and graduation year.
• Work experience (Berufserfahrung): In reverse chronological order with company name, job title, dates, and key responsibilities.
• Language skills (Sprachkenntnisse): List all languages with CEFR levels (A1–C2). German proficiency is especially important.
• Skills section (Kenntnisse): Technical skills, software, certifications, and other relevant competencies.

The Austrian hiring process is typically more formal than in the US or UK. Here is what to expect:

• Written application (Bewerbung): CV + cover letter + relevant certificates. Some companies use online application portals.
• Interview (Vorstellungsgespräch): Typically 2 to 3 rounds, including HR screening, technical/professional interview, and sometimes a team fit interview.
• Employment contract (Dienstvertrag): Once accepted, you receive a written contract specifying salary, working hours, vacation, and notice period.

Key Terms to Know

• Probezeit (probation period): Typically 1 month, during which either party can terminate without notice.
• Kollektivvertrag: The collective agreement for your industry sets the minimum salary. Your actual salary should be at or above this minimum.
• 13th and 14th salary: Two extra monthly payments per year, typically paid in June and November. These are taxed at a reduced rate.
• 5 weeks vacation (Urlaub): 25 working days of paid vacation per year is the legal minimum. See our income tax guide for how salary and benefits are taxed.