Germany is a great country known for its strong economy, excellent quality of life, and influential organisations that make waves globally. So, if you're looking to level up your career and secure your financial future, Germany has your back.

This article lists the top 10 highest paying jobs in Germany based on salary average. We'll give you the lowdown on the industries and opportunities for grabs in this central European country. We'll dig into the high-demand job roles and break down their qualification requirements. Plus, we'll dive into the industries that dish out the big bucks.

RELATED: Living in Germany

1. Medical Advisor 

Average annual salary: €86,000
Salary range: from €61,700 to €137,700 

Undeniably, you can earn good money in the pharmaceutical industry, so it's no surprise a Medical Advisor is the highest salary in Germany. 

A medical advisor provides scientific advice to pharmaceutical and medical supply companies. To become a medical advisor, you must have a medical degree, clinical experience, and pharmaceutical medicine or clinical research qualifications. They ensure compliance with regulations, assist with product marketing and sales, and have skills in leadership, communication, and drug development and marketing concepts. 

2. Doctor

Average annual salary: €85,100
Salary range: from €47,400 to €142,200

Being a doctor provides excellent opportunities with high starting salaries and continued financial rewards throughout, which is why it's one of the highest paying jobs in Germany. It's important to note that the earning potential may vary based on your professional experience and the specific medical field you choose to specialise in.

Admission to medical universities in Germany has shifted from being purely academic to including personal qualities and motivation alongside grades. Medical training in Germany consists of pre-clinical studies, clinical science, a final clinical year, practical training, and exams. Foreign-trained doctors can practice medicine in Germany, but their education and qualifications are evaluated for equivalency, and they may need to take an assessment test.

3. Pilot

Average annual salary: €83,300
Salary range: from €27,600 to €160,900

If becoming a pilot in Germany is on your radar, you're in luck! There are plenty of flight training options available in Germany. First, you must meet basic requirements like age, a medical certificate, high school graduation, and English proficiency. Once you have those checked off, it's time to decide on the perfect flight school. Consider your budget, preferences, and career goals—whether it's being an airline pilot, corporate/business aviation pilot, cargo pilot, or even a flight instructor. 

Being a pilot, you can soar (ok, I'll stop with the cringy puns) to incredible heights in earning potential. At the upper echelons of a pilot's salary, you'll find yourself earning one of the highest salaries in Germany. 

4. lawyer

Average annual salary: €82,900
Salary range: from €38,000 and €146,000

Germany offers fantastic opportunities if you've ever dreamed of pursuing a law degree. While the journey may be lengthy, it is undoubtedly worthwhile. One of the great advantages of studying law in Germany is its reputation for affordable education and highly-ranked law schools. While most law programs are taught in German, you'll be pleased to know that English programs are also available. To become a fully qualified lawyer, you must pass the First State Examination and complete a two-year internship. The academic requirements include a secondary school leaving certificate, proficiency in both German and English languages, and a university degree in law or its equivalent. Embarking on this path will open doors to a fulfilling legal career.

5. Management consultant

Average annual salary: €82,000
Salary range: from €40,200 and €141,700

Management consultants offer unbiased advice and expertise to enhance business performance. They conduct research, analysis, and workshops, presenting findings and recommendations to clients. Having a bachelor's degree is usually the baseline, and depending on the industry, you might also need specific training in areas like IT, finance, and HR. Essential skills include teamwork, problem-solving, strategic planning, and commercial awareness. Work experience is highly valued, and the career path spans from analyst to senior consultant or manager, with opportunities for specialisation or partnership.

6. Software architect

Average annual salary: €81,500
Salary range: from €58,100 and €123,700

In Germany, software developer jobs offer attractive compensation, and many positions in different software roles are available. However, it is worth noting that the role of a software architect commands the highest salary.

A software architect designs applications and creates representations for functions and user interfaces. The architect develops high-level product specifications, considers system integration and feasibility, and provides technical guidance and coaching to developers and engineers. Strong technical skills and experience in software development are essential. Top earners typically have over ten years of experience. 

7. Portfolio Manager

Average annual salary: €81,000
Salary range: from €46,300 to €137,800 

Portfolio managers provide valuable advice and execute investment strategies for individuals and organisations. They carefully handle substantial sums of money, earning compensation commensurate with their responsibilities.

This position demands extensive financial markets and transactions expertise and exceptional networking and relationship management skills. You'll need a Bachelor's Degree in Finance and over five years of experience as a finance analyst or associate. 

8. Program Project Manager

Average annual salary: €79,900
Salary range: from €53,800 to €132,500 

A program manager is crucial in overseeing and managing extensive programs containing multiple projects, ensuring their seamless alignment with the company's goals and strategic direction. In Germany, it's standard for Program Project Managers to have a university degree in computer science, business information systems, business administration, or other related fields.

With a solid strategic focus, program managers work diligently to ensure that every aspect of the program contributes to the company's mission. Rather than getting caught up in the nitty-gritty details of individual projects, program managers prioritise the overall benefits these projects and initiatives bring to the company and its stakeholders. A program manager's success hinges on their ability to deliver the intended needs and benefits outlined in the program's design.

9. Legal Counsel

Average annual salary: €78,900
Salary range: from €50,600 to €123,800

Legal consultants play a vital role by providing expert advisory services to individuals and organisations. While they may not represent clients in court as lawyers do, they excel in offering comprehensive legal support to top-level management. Their responsibilities include ensuring compliance with internal controls, calculating risks, and skillfully drafting contracts for patents and trademarks. In times of litigation, they expertly handle the legal proceedings. As trusted advisors, legal consultants provide invaluable guidance to executive members, helping them navigate the intricate landscape of laws and regulations that impact their business. Given the intricacies of Germany's legal system interwoven with EU law, the role of legal consultants becomes all the more indispensable.

10.Service Delivery Manager

Average annual salary: €78,000
Salary range: from €47,200 to €130,600

As a service delivery manager, you ensure smooth customer service operations by creating policies, optimising services, and resolving complaints. You manage budgets, track progress, survey clients, and resolve conflicts. Your role involves evaluating processes, building relationships, overseeing staff, and collaborating with stakeholders. Leadership, technical expertise, and organisational skills are crucial. Gain education, experience and certifications, tailor your resume and apply for jobs. 

Why work in Germany?

Germany offers a diverse range of industries and opportunities for advancement. The country has a reputation for excellence in manufacturing, engineering, and technology but also has a strong presence in finance, law, and healthcare. German companies are known for their emphasis on employee training and development and their commitment to work-life balance.

Moreover, Germany's standing as a thriving centre for international business opens up incredible opportunities for professionals to collaborate with colleagues from diverse corners of the globe. This fosters invaluable cross-cultural experiences that broaden horizons and enrich personal growth. When working in Germany, you can expect a career path filled with fulfilment and rewards, complemented by a high standard of living and a stable environment that nurtures your individual development.

Can foreigners find work in Germany? 

The short? Certainly, and if you're considering moving to Germany for work, you'll want to keep a few things in mind. Firstly, it's crucial to do your homework on visa requirements and ensure you've got that covered. You might need a visa to work in Germany, depending on where you're from. So take the time to figure out the right visa category for you and navigate the application process like a champ.

Living in Germany is excellent, but it can be pricey. It's known for its high standard of living, which means expenses can add up. It's wise to research the costs of housing, transportation, food, and more.

Remember, with some planning and foresight, you can avoid any unexpected financial surprises and smoothly transition into your new work and life in Germany.