In Bremerhaven, there are numerous competent partners for the recruitment of skilled workers. The joint Employer Service of the Bremen-Bremerhaven Employment Agency and the Bremerhaven Jobcenter offers companies comprehensive and tailored advice on the subject of personnel and provides support in the search for qualified specialists.

You can see the entire range of advice and services offered by the Employer Service, such as labour market advice or qualification advice for small and medium-sized enterprises, here.

Of course there are also specific contact persons at the Employer Service in Bremerhaven.

General nationwide phone number of the Employer Service:
Mo - Fr, 08:00 am - 6:00 pm, Tel. 0800 4 555520 (toll-free)

The two locations of the Bremen Chamber of Commerce – Chamber of Commerce and Industry Bremen and Bremerhaven work closely together to help recruit skilled workers. With their skilled personnel programmes, they offer assistance in the search for suitable specialists and executives from abroad.

On the job and training portal karriere-bremen, companies from the State of Bremen can publish their job offers, training and dual-study places for Bremerhaven, Bremen and the surrounding area. Competent network partners of the portal are e.g. BIS, WFB and the Employment Agency.

Former servicemen and servicewomen are often also well-trained specialists. The Vocational Advancement Service of the Bundeswehr is the point of contact for integration into the civilian labour market and helps companies to find suitable employees. The Job Service of the Vocational Advancement Service does the appropriate networking. It also provides support with its own job exchange.

Guidance and placement of skilled workers through personnel service providers

There are numerous personnel service providers* in Bremerhaven who offer a broad portfolio of advice and assistance to help companies find the right employees. Recruitment services are provided for short and long-term employment, together with personnel requirement analyses and planning or the development of working time models.

Adecco Personaldienstleistungen GmbH

ASP Personaldienstleistungen GmbH

DEKRA Arbeit GmbH Bremerhaven

Hanseatisches Personalkontor Bremen

M&B Industrietechnik GmbH

Northwork Personalservice

Orizon

Personal Aktiv GmbH

Persona Service

Personal Service PSH GmbH – Personal Service PSH Bremerhaven GmbH

Runtime Services GmbH

TimePartner Personalmanagement GmbH

Zeitarbeit Personalberatung und Vermittlungs-GmbH (ZPV)

* The list represents only a selection of the personnel service providers. There is no claim to completeness.

The Gesamthafenbetriebsverein im Lande Bremen (GHBV), as a personnel service provider for Bremen’s port industry, is specifically concerned with the placement of harbour workers in Bremerhaven and Bremen.

Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences trains excellent specialists and executives in the study fields of engineering sciences, business administration, logistics, information technology and tourism. This also benefits Bremerhaven as a location and the local economy. The Career Service Center (CSC), as part of the staff unit “Research and Transfer”, establishes the contact between companies and students.

Companies can use the job exchange of the AStA (General Students’ Committee) to recruit students and graduates of the various disciplines for assignments as interns or career entrants.

Declining levels of training and education are triggering labour shortages, information deficits and, in particular, a decrease in the availability of skilled staff. The change in the labour market therefore requires a new orientation on the part of enterprises – but also on the part of labour market administration, social partners and young people in the education and training market. For this reason, the main goal of the Netzwerk Schule, Wirtschaft und Wissenschaft [Network of Schools, Industry and Research] is the appropriate region-specific placement in training, study and work. The aim is to keep young people especially in the region, with a view to counteracting the demographic change. 

The Jugendberufsagentur (JBA) [Youth Employment Agency] supports companies in filling their vacancies and in the search for suitable applicants for training or dual studies.

Job fairs
Job fairs are far more than just places where suitable employees can be found. It is becoming increasingly important for companies to position themselves as attractive employers on the labour market and to present themselves in a strong light. Employer branding is the keyword for attracting skilled workers and retaining them over the long term. Job fairs are a good opportunity for an exchange between companies and interested applicants.

Representing the Federal State of Bremen – and thus also Bremerhaven – top companies and motivated applicants have been coming together since 2006 at the Jobmesse Bremen to talk about careers and new prospects.

Another offering and a good platform for cross-industry recruiting is the Jobmesse Nord. It is aimed not only at the City of Bremen, but also at the entire surrounding area.

Qualified employees are crucial for the business success of your company. In the search for solutions, one path that offers a solid basis for the corporate future is often underestimated: dual-system training. Here, young people gain important professional experience and at the same time specialist knowledge at a high level for a wide range of career and development opportunities. They become urgently needed skilled workers with completed vocational training, specialists with a craft master title, bachelor degree or some other qualification.  

Important factors for companies on all aspects of training include:
- Attractive training marketing (e.g. cooperation with schools providing general education)
- Use of various innovative recruitment methods
- Consideration of new target groups
- Establishment of a welcoming culture
- Prudent planning of the training

A wide range of counselling services are provided by various institutions in Bremerhaven on all these topics:

The Employment Agency offers a comprehensive service package for companies on the subject of training and provides support in the search for suitable trainees.

The Bremen Chamber of Commerce – CCI for Bremen and Bremerhaven is a competent point of contact for companies. It provides information and advice on all aspects of training, including specifically on the integration and training of refugees. The institution is a neutral facilitator between companies providing vocational training and the trainees. Companies can advertise their training positions in the CCI apprenticeship exchange and, if they wish, search for suitable applicants using the matching tool.

In order to reconcile work and family, there is also the possibility of part-time vocational training. Single parents and young parents in particular can thus become a valuable part of your company structure and long-term skilled staff.

The training office Ausbildungsbüro Smart4u is an institution of the Bildungszentrum der Wirtschaft im Unterwesergebiet (BWU) [Educational Centre of Industry in the Lower Weser Region]. Among other things, Smart4u supports companies in their search for suitable trainees.

The Jugendberufsagentur (JBA) [Youth Employment Agency] is a joint institution of the City Council, the Employment Agency and the Jobcenter. It accompanies young people up to the age of 25 on their way to a vocational or academic qualification. The JBA is a contact and cooperation partner for companies and arranges training positions.

The association Ausbildungspool Bremerhaven [Bremerhaven Training Pool] creates additional training positions in the Bremerhaven region. It supports companies and apprentices throughout the training period. Since the association acts as the responsible employer, companies without training authorization are also given the opportunity to train apprentices with the Bremerhaven training pool.

The District Crafts Association represents the interests of the guild crafts in the Bremerhaven-Wesermünde region. It advises companies and enterprises on all aspects of vocational training.

As a subsidiary of the Arbeitsförderungs-Zentrum im Lande Bremen [Employment Promotion Centre], the professional qualification company Berufliche Bildung Bremerhaven GmbH (BBB) is a service provider in the field of training and a contact for companies and training seekers alike.

Training fairs
Training fairs are a very good platform to look for young talent. Here, companies can present trends, opportunities and perspectives for training and studying in the region to young people. They can showcase training opportunities clearly, provide information on dual courses of study or study opportunities and hold qualified, personal discussions about training, study and further education with interested young people.

Bremerhaven companies can present themselves together with institutions, education providers and the university at the Berufsinformationsmesse (BIM) [Career Information Fair] and inform about training occupations and study opportunities. BIM is an initiative of the City of Bremerhaven and Job4u.

In addition, there is a special fair for training and studies called “Vocatium” once a year in Bremerhaven and Bremen. Companies present themselves there together with universities and institutions.

Vocational qualification and continuing education increase the proportion of skilled workers in your company. This competence ensures the success of the enterprise. Moreover, well-qualified employees are often highly motivated and satisfied; they tend to remain loyal to the company. Further vocational training strengthens competitiveness and brings innovative drive.

In Bremerhaven, there are a large number of different institutions for companies that offer a wide range of competent consulting services on the subject of further education and qualification.

Through the Employer Service, the Employment Agency has a wide consulting spectrum for small and medium-sized enterprises on the subject of continuing education and qualification.

You can find the specific contact persons for your sector at the Employer Service in Bremerhaven here.

The Bremen Chamber of Commerce – CCI for Bremen and Bremerhaven is also a competent point of contact for companies on the subject of continuing education/qualification: It offers innovation workshops as well as workshops on a wide range of topics (leadership, employer attractiveness, strategic HR work, retaining top performers, etc.).

In addition, the Bremen Chamber of Crafts also informs and advises the companies in the State of Bremen on the topics of qualification and further training.

Bildungszentrum der Wirtschaft im Unterwesergebiet (BWU)
BWU is the training and further education institution of the business federations in the State of Bremen. It offers retraining, further training, initial and further education seminars, exam coaching and much more.

The Kreishandwerkerschaft Bremerhaven-Wesermünde [District Crafts Association] unites various offers on the subject of further education and qualification under one roof. As part of the crafts organization, it provides craft master classes, inter-company apprentice instruction, retraining, advanced training and vocational orientation.

Its educational institutions are:
- InCoTrain GmbH (Ingenieurdienstleistung Coaching Training GmbH)
- Akademie des Handwerks an der Unterweser (AdH)
- Berufsbildungs- und Technologiezentrum (BTZ) [Vocational Training and Technology Centre]

The Institut für berufliche Bildung (IBB) [Institute for Vocational Education] is a private, supraregional education provider with an office in Bremerhaven. It is the point of contact for companies and employees for the identification and implementation of suitable further qualification, upskilling and retraining measures.

Berufliche Bildung Bremerhaven GmbH (BBB) (subsidiary of the Arbeitsförderungs-Zentrum im Lande Bremen [Employment Promotion Centre]) is a service provider, among other things, for further education, retraining and qualification and is also a contact point for employers and employees.

Bfw Bremerhaven – Unternehmen für Bildung is an education and training centre for wind energy technology and advises companies on retraining and further education for their employees in the metal and electrical sectors.

WISOAK is the Business and Social Academy of the Chamber of Employees and one of the largest providers of vocational qualification and further training. It has numerous offerings – among others in the fields of business as well as in the social care and therapeutic areas.

As an adult education centre, the Volkshochschule Bremerhaven (VHS) is an institution of further education in the State of Bremen. It conducts diverse seminars and courses that lead to certified qualifications upon passing an examination. Especially for companies, businesses and public institutions, the VHS offers the possibility to organize courses, seminars or further education according to their own ideas for qualification and further education.

This section provides an overview of contact points and institutions on the subject of funding. Targeted consulting sessions are offered on various advancement programmes that are relevant for attracting and retaining skilled workers.

BIS offers comprehensive advice on the possible funding programmes for companies in Bremerhaven, such as qualification, digitalization, consultancy funding and others. It accepts your applications, examines and decides on them, and also pays out the grants. You can obtain a detailed overview of the various funding programmes here.

STARThaus is an initiative of the BAB (Bremer Aufbau-Bank, the development bank for Bremen and Bremerhaven).
It is a central contact point for people interested in setting up a business and for start-ups in Bremen and Bremerhaven. The advice is free of charge and ranges from brainstorming, coaching and financing to the first growth phase. In addition, there is the possibility of obtaining general funding for consultancy services on economic, organizational and technical matters.

The Bremen Chamber of Commerce – CCI for Bremen and Bremerhaven is a good point of contact on the subject of funding further training and qualification. It also provides information about the Bremer Weiterbildungsscheck (continuing education voucher) for the reduction of course fees. Companies with their registered office or place of business in the State of Bremen and up to 50 employees (full-time equivalent) for an in-company qualification of their employees may apply for the voucher.

The Employment Agency offers companies a comprehensive range of funding possibilities for the further training and qualification of their workforce. Learn more about the range of offers here.

With the qualification campaign “WEITER.BILDUNG!”, the Employment Agency supports companies in the further training and qualification of their employees.

It also supports companies in the occupational integration of people who are difficult to place in work.

The Amt für kommunale Arbeitsmarktpolitik of Bremerhaven City Council [Office for Municipal Labour Market Policy] promotes the provision of additional apprentice positions in Bremerhaven.

The Employer Service of the Employment Agency cooperates with the Central Placement Office (ZAV).

The ZAV supports companies in recruiting skilled workers from abroad. It provides information on the prerequisites for access to the German labour market and supports social and occupational integration.

The Unternehmensservice Bremen [Company Service Bremen] offers a comprehensive range of advice for Bremen-based companies on questions relating to the recruitment of foreign professionals. In addition, foreign entrepreneurs and company founders are advised in detail about the possibilities and requirements, from the issuing of visas to registration in Bremen.

The Bildungszentrum der Wirtschaft im Unterwesergebiet (BWU) [Educational Centre of Industry in the Lower Weser Region] supports companies in the occupational integration of refugees. It employs welcome guides to help fill vacant training positions and workplaces, and provides advisory support during training or employment.

“Make it in Germany” is a portal of the Federal Government and informs enterprises about possibilities for recruiting and integrating international skilled workers. Among other things, it gives practical examples of specific companies and reports on their experiences.

The Bremen Chamber of Commerce – CCI for Bremen and Bremerhaven informs and advises companies on the topics of training, qualification and integration of people from abroad as well as on the recognition of foreign vocational and educational qualifications.

EURES (European Employment Services) is a European job mobility portal. As a cooperation network of employment services in all EU countries (plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland), EURES helps employers throughout Europe to find workers and skilled specialists from abroad.

The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi – formerly the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology) offers the BQ-Portal as part of the Qualified Professionals Initiative. This information portal for foreign vocational qualifications bundles all relevant information on foreign professional qualifications and vocational training systems.

Information about the EU Blue Card Germany for highly qualified workers/specialists from non-EU countries who would like to work in Germany – especially for interested companies – is available here.

“anabin” is the information portal on foreign professional qualifications. It was set up by the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs (KMK) in Germany and the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB) and provides helpful tips on the recognition and assessment of foreign educational certificates and on the classification of foreign qualifications in the German education system.

Companies can boost their attractiveness as an employer for skilled workers to a great degree through a family-conscious personnel policy. Applicants will be made aware of the benefits offered by your company. Family-friendly employers are highly rated by job seekers and often have satisfied employees. This ensures a stronger bond with the company, better chances in competition, and good executives. Also in view of the demographic development, a family-conscious personnel policy is an important topic for the future and a significant factor in successful employer branding.

Examples of a family-conscious personnel policy:
* Counselling services for parents, and contact-keeping and re-entry programmes for employees on parental leave
* Part-time offers, working time flexibility and sovereignty for parents
* Teleworking for employees on parental leave
* Company-sponsored child care

The non-profit association Impulsgeber Zukunft [Inspiration Source Future] deals with the compatibility of work and family life on the basis of a life-phase-oriented personnel policy. Its members include the Bremen Chamber of Commerce – CCI for Bremen and Bremerhaven. The association awards the regional Bremen seal of quality “Excellently Family Friendly” for family-oriented companies. Further information on the reconciliation of work and family life on the part of the CCI can be found here.

Another good way for companies and institutions to enhance their attractiveness as an employer is the “audit berufundfamilie” [audit work and family]. Here, specific solutions are developed to sustainably improve organizational and family-conscious personnel policies. The aim is to determine the family-oriented development potential, to increase the competence of managers and thus to further develop the company’s mission statement in a targeted manner. The company “berufundfamilie Service” is an initiative of the non-profit Hertie Foundation. Information about the certificate and the flyer “audit berufundfamilie” is available here.

As the City’s largest employer, the City Council of Bremerhaven holds this certificate. The Human Resources Office is responsible for the implementation of the family-conscious personnel policy under the heading of Beruf und Familie/Gesundheitsförderung [Career and Family / Health Promotion].

Information and advice on a family-friendly personnel policy, especially for the employment of women, is available to companies from the Bremische Zentralstelle für die Verwirklichung der Gleichberechtigung der Frau (ZGF) [Bremen Central Office for the Realization of Equal Rights for Women].

The Bremen Chamber of Commerce – CCI for Bremen and Bremerhaven provides information and advice on topics such as part-time training. Single parents and young parents in particular can thus become reliable and valuable employees in companies.

Bremerhaven is not just the only major city on the German North Sea coast. As a lively port city with tradition, culture and bustling activity, it combines economic values and stability with a high recreational value and, at the same time, a low cost of living. The infrastructure as well as the school and day-care landscape are also excellent. Thanks to its location on the Outer Weser, Bremerhaven has a significant advantage over other cities: On one side of town, the water is a wonderful recreational element while, on the other side, the vast green hinterland of meadows and forests is just a stone’s throw away. All of this, together with the many cultural institutions and the exciting culinary landscape, results in an appealing atmosphere and quality of life which is unique, especially for attracting skilled workers as well as employer branding, and as an excellent location feature.

Commercial, residential and construction
Anyone in Bremerhaven who is looking for commercial premises or space, needs housing or wants to build, is offered central and helpful points of contact here. The housing companies and cooperatives are happy to look into their portfolios for suitable offers.

Gewoba (a non-profit housing association) rents out, sells and manages commercial space and business premises for companies.

STÄWOG (Städtische Wohnungsgesellschaft Bremerhaven) is the housing company of the City of Bremerhaven. It is responsible for renting out office space and shop premises.

WoGe (Wohnungsgenossenschaft Bremerhaven eG) is the place to go for companies looking to lease commercial space.

Seestadt-Immobilien is a company owned by the City of Bremerhaven. It takes care of the infrastructure provision and management of new building plots as well as municipal properties such as kindergartens, schools, vacant sites and others. Municipal real estate that is no longer used is marketed – also for use by companies with sales or leasing.

Through targeted and effective employer branding, you present a positive image of your company as an attractive employer. This external perception plays a decisive role in recruiting new staff and ensures an intensive bond between employees and the company. Employer branding is particularly important in times of a shortage of skilled labour. Positive signals such as qualification opportunities, further training and also the compatibility of family and career all combine to make an attractive employer brand.

Various service providers and institutions offer a wide range of information and consulting services for companies to build up their own employer brand.

Under the keyword “Gute Arbeit” [Good Work], various institutions in the State of Bremen support companies in contributing to an attractive labour market and a future-proof location.

This involves the following topics:
– Human resources development
– Qualification and continuing education
– Apprenticeship funding
– Health management
– Alliances and agreements
– General statutory conditions
– Advancement programmes (grants, favourable loans, targeted consulting services)

The Kompetenzzentrum Fachkräftesicherung (KOFA) [Competence Centre for Skilled Workers] is a project of the German Economic Institute in Cologne and is funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy. KOFA supports companies in finding, retaining and qualifying skilled workers. It offers a wealth of practical information, checklists and self-tests on Employer Branding, with a view to supporting companies on their way to becoming an even more attractive employer.

An innovative contribution to a successful employer branding for companies is also the “Equal Pay Check” or the “Equal Treatment Check”. Companies that promote gender equality and thus the potential of all employees have a good human resources policy and thus enjoy a competitive advantage in the long term. For their commitment, such companies receive a certificate from the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency.

You will find additional content and impulses on the topic of employer branding under “Compatibility of Family and Career”, “Best Practice” and relevant cooperations and contact persons under “Networks/Platforms”.

There are many examples for successful strategies of companies and institutions in terms of innovative and successful approaches in attracting skilled workers or good employer branding. They are very useful to learn from and apply to your own business. The following insights show how best-practice companies in Bremerhaven have defined their strategy and taken it to success:

In Bremerhaven, there are numerous institutions and companies that stand out for their family-friendly personnel policies.

City Council of Bremerhaven

Since May 2007, Bremerhaven City Council has been awarded the certificate “audit berufundfamilie” [audit work and family] as a family-friendly administration. To this end, the city administration of Bremerhaven is continuously developing specific solutions with which an organizational and family-conscious personnel policy can be implemented in a variety of ways. Personnel policy of Bremerhaven.

Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research (AWI)

The compatibility of career and family has a high priority at all locations of AWI. As an international research centre, the AWI pays equal attention to the interests of the profession and the needs of families. AWI also has the “audit work and family” certificate.

The Bremen seal of quality “Excellently Family Friendly” award for family-aware personnel policies include, for example, the Gudehus practice, the Atlantic Hotel Sail City and BIS Bremerhaven.

Best practice examples for employer branding and recruiting

Huth Zaun + Torsysteme GmbH / Huth Metallbau GmbH

The company Huth is very successful in attracting qualified personnel through its presence in social media (Facebook, etc.). This also includes the recruitment of trainees through intensive networking (youth employment agency, career guidance, vocational schools, own in-house fair). Huth has also produced its own image film for the social networks.

An own overview of the labour market and the feedback from partners are important in the search for skilled workers. Networks and platforms are therefore useful and important tools to stay up to date and at the same time to be perceived as a company.

“i2b” (idea to business) is the largest business and science network in Northern Germany. It offers many interesting events for companies and institutions as well as professionals on numerous innovative topics.

The “NSWW” – Network of Schools, Industry and Research for the Lower Weser Region (motto: “Scholars are the skilled workers of tomorrow”) – is concerned with the exchange of experience and information between schools, companies and economic institutions, such as Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences. Cooperation between educational institutions and companies, seminars, advice on internship opportunities and the organization of career information fairs (BIB) also form part of the tasks.

The Haven-Net entrepreneurial association is a business network in the Elbe-Weser triangle with members from the areas of crafts, retail, commerce, services, industry and creative industries. The aim of the network is to connect people from diverse disciplines for an exchange of ideas through lectures, seminars and workshops.

The Wind Energy Agency WAB is an industry network for the wind industry.
It is the interface between politics and business and a nationwide lobby group for the offshore wind industry as well as the contact point for the onshore network in the Northwest region. Its range of services: Trade fairs and events, international cooperation, press and public relations, studies and project work, and the qualification of specialists and executives.

The Senator for Economic Affairs, Labour and Europe, in cooperation with WFB Economic Development Bremen, invites human resources managers to a round table discussion four times a year.

The knowledge and technology transfer “SCIENCE meets BUSINESS” at Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences brings the scientific focal points of Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences closer to a large circle of interested parties on two evenings a year. The exchange of ideas between the worlds of business and science encourages cooperation. The target groups are associations, politicians and administrative bodies.

The Arbeitsförderungs-Zentrum im Lande Bremen (afz) [Employment Promotion Centre] is a counselling centre for companies seeking to improve their competitiveness as well as for job seekers. As an employment network, it links industry and business, employees and job hunters, as well as authorities and institutions. Specifically for companies, there is advice on job and training placement, job transfer, further training possibilities and more.

Nahrungs- und Genussmittelwirtschaft Bremen (Nageb) is an association representing the interests of the food, beverage and tobacco industry in Bremen, Bremerhaven and the surrounding area of Lower Saxony. In particular, the goal is to advance developments in infrastructure, transport, ports, energy supply, education and training that are important for the quality of Bremerhaven as a location.

The Pier der Wissenschaft is an alliance of scientific and cultural institutions in Bremerhaven. Public projects and events take place under this name. Through cooperation with the City and business as well as an exchange with the urban society, the network aims to contribute to a knowledge-based urban development.

The Fishing Port of Bremerhaven is one of the largest contiguous business zones in the State of Bremen. In order to better interlink the diversity of companies, the Fischereihafen Business Club was founded in 2014. Some 70 companies from various sectors are committed to strengthening the location and the economy in the region.

The association Maritime Cluster Northern Germany (MCN) promotes and strengthens the cooperation in the Northern German maritime industry with an intensive exchange between business and science. Information is provided on funding programmes and contacts in the maritime sector as well as support in the search for innovation partners.

In its newsletter, BIS Economic Development Bremerhaven also publishes interesting topics relating to the economy, further education, skilled workers and location opportunities. If you would like to subscribe to the newsletter (in German), please click here.

KOFA (Kompetenzzentrum Fachkräftesicherung) [Competence Centre for Skilled Workers] is a project of the German Economic Institute in Cologne and is funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy. It supports small and medium-sized enterprises in finding, retaining and qualifying skilled workers at home and abroad (selection, planning and implementation of individually tailored measures on HR, training and further education, and recruiting).

On the website Fachkräfte für Bremen [Professionals for Bremen], both job seekers and employers will find important information. All topics are summarized here, from securing skilled workers to location advantages and university information to day-care places.

In the Toolbox für Arbeitgebende [Toolbox for Employers], you will find offers, information and material for recruiting new personnel to showcase the benefits offered by Bremerhaven and Bremen.

In addition, there is Stammtisch für Personalverantwortliche round table discussion for HR managers offering a regular exchange of ideas and news:

Under the keyword Gute Arbeit [Good Work], various institutions in the State of Bremen support companies in contributing to an attractive labour market and a future-proof location. This involves the following topics:

– Human resources development
– Qualification and continuing education
– Apprenticeship funding
– Health management
– Alliances and agreements
– General statutory conditions
– Advancement programmes (grants, favourable loans, targeted consulting services)

“MINT” – Mathematics, Informatics, Natural Science, Technology (the German form of STEM)

In Bremerhaven and throughout Germany, there is a shortage of qualified personnel, especially in MINT occupations and primarily in training occupations. The goal is therefore to strengthen MINT skills and abilities in all areas of education. In order to foster MINT courses of study, Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences has launched the project Campus: MINT

As a nationwide MINT network, “MINT Zukunft schaffen!” [Creating the MINT future] is providing fresh momentum.

The MINTforum Bremen interconnects the diverse activities and players in the State of Bremen that inspire scholars for MINT. Important information and news about the forum, offerings and events in Bremen and Bremerhaven as well as about the network partners can be found on the website.

In the State of Bremen, the recruitment of skilled personnel is an essential part of structural policy. Various departments and external players are developing a strategy and fields of action on the topics of qualification, training, labour market participation and location attractiveness.
For the Federal Government’s strategy on skilled workers, go here.

If you are a skilled worker looking for a suitable job in Bremerhaven, you stand to benefit from the numerous sources of information available. There are many useful portals and advisory services.

The Employment Agency advises skilled workers on their career change wishes and with their job search, and offers extensive consultation on career goals and development opportunities. The Agency provides useful tips for applications and job interviews and also on the possibilities of financial support.

A comprehensive range of jobs for skilled workers and job seekers is available at the job board of the Employment Agency. The Employment Agency will answer all questions about finding a job on Mondays to Fridays between 8 am and 6 pm on 0800 4 555500 (free within Germany).

The Vocational Advancement Service of the Bundeswehr is the point of contact for former servicemen and servicewomen seeking integration into the civilian labour market. It provides links to companies that are looking for suitable employees. The Job Service of the Vocational Advancement Service also provides support with its own job exchange.

Skilled workers looking for a job in Bremerhaven may also find it useful to consult the career portal of the City of Bremerhaven for the City Council of Bremerhaven as an employer as well as the career portal of the State of Bremen for the civil service. The Free Hanseatic City of Bremen is the largest employer in the State of Bremen.

On the job and training portal for the State of Bremen, skilled personnel and employees who wish to gain qualifications can find offers for jobs, apprenticeships and dual-study places. 

The job exchange of the General Students’ Committee AStA lists open positions from companies for students and graduates of the various disciplines in respect of internships or career entry. Offers from companies for writing theses are also posted here.

In Bremerhaven, there are a large number of personnel service providers* who offer a wide range of services for employees. The spectrum ranges from career advice and assistance with job applications to finding a suitable workplace.

Adecco Personaldienstleistungen GmbH
ASP Personaldienstleistungen GmbH
DEKRA Arbeit GmbH Bremerhaven
Hanseatisches Personalkontor Bremen
M&B Industrietechnik GmbH
Northwork Personalservice
Orizon
Personal Aktiv GmbH
Persona Service
Personal Service PSH GmbH – Personal Service PSH Bremerhaven GmbH
Runtime Services GmbH
TimePartner Personalmanagement GmbH
Zeitarbeit Personalberatung und Vermittlungs-GmbH (ZPV)

* The list represents only a selection of the personnel service providers. There is no claim to completeness.

The Gesamthafenbetriebsverein im Lande Bremen (GHBV), as a personnel service provider for Bremen’s port industry, is specifically concerned with the placement of harbour workers in Bremerhaven and Bremen.

Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences trains excellent specialists and executives in the study fields of engineering sciences, business administration, logistics, information technology and tourism. The Career Service Center (CSC), as part of the staff unit “Research and Transfer”, establishes the contact between students and companies.

Via the job exchange of the General Students’ Committee AStA, students and graduates of the various disciplines can inform themselves about occupational activities as interns or career entrants.

The Netzwerk Schule, Wirtschaft und Wissenschaft [Network of Schools, Industry and Research] offers the appropriate region-specific placement in training, study and work. It accompanies adolescents and young adults into working life.

The Jugendberufsagentur (JBA) [Youth Employment Agency] supports young people in their search for a suitable job and advises on questions regarding training or dual studies.

Job fairs
Job fairs are the perfect places to get your bearings in the career and qualification market. This can involve a trainee position, a course of study, continuing education or even lateral entry as an experienced specialist or executive with a change of employer. Job fairs offer applicants the opportunity to get to know the company of their choice in a personal discussion and to convince them “face-to-face” without having been invited to a job interview. The informative supporting programme often consists of specialized lectures, workshops and speed coaching as well as an application check.

Representing the Federal State of Bremen – and thus also Bremerhaven – top companies and motivated applicants have been coming together since 2006 at the Jobmesse Bremen to talk about careers and new prospects.

Another offering and a good platform for cross-industry career opportunities is the Jobmesse Nord. It is also directed at the entire surrounding area.

The start of a professional career begins with the qualification. Training and studies are a very good basis on the way to becoming a competent specialist.

The Employment Agency provides information about various occupational fields and advises on the subject of “training and studies”. The vocational guidance of the Employment Agency provides support in making the right choice of studies and career, as well as during training and at the beginning of working life.

At the Berufsinformationszentrum (BIZ) [Career Information Centre] of the Bremen-Bremerhaven Employment Agency, young people and adults can find out about training and studies on their own, search for vacancies in the job exchange, or take part in job application training.

The Jugendberufsagentur (JBA) [Youth Employment Agency] is a joint institution of the City Council, the Employment Agency and the Jobcenter. It accompanies young people up to the age of 25 on their way to a vocational or academic qualification and arranges apprenticeships and training positions. It also assists with the selection of a suitable training or study place.

Ausbildungspool Bremerhaven [Bremerhaven Training Pool] is an association for the creation of additional training positions in the Bremerhaven region. It is responsible as an employer during training and supports the trainees during the entire training period.

The Bremen Chamber of Commerce – CCI for Bremen and Bremerhaven is a competent point of contact for scholars and trainees, prospective and active alike, on the subject of training. The training advice service of the CCI (Chamber of Commerce and Industry) offers a comprehensive package of information and advice on all aspects of training. It advises on the various possibilities of training and also specifically on the subject of “part-time training”.
Visit the CCI apprenticeship exchange  here.

The training office Ausbildungsbüro Smart4u is an institution of the Bildungszentrum der Wirtschaft im Unterwesergebiet (BWU) [Educational Centre of Industry in the Lower Weser Region]. Young people interested in training receive individual, in-depth advice and support in the training office when preparing application documents and starting dual vocational training.

The Kreishandwerkerschaft [District Crafts Association] represents the interests of the guild crafts in the Bremerhaven-Wesermünde region. It advises scholars on all aspects of vocational training in the skilled trades and conducts training courses during the apprenticeship period. Inter-company apprentice instruction takes place in the Berufsbildungs- und Technologiezentrum (BTZ) [Vocational Training and Technology Centre] in the form of courses aimed at optimum preparation for examinations.

As a subsidiary of the Arbeitsförderungs-Zentrum im Lande Bremen [Employment Promotion Centre], the professional qualification company Berufliche Bildung Bremerhaven (BBB) is a service provider in the field of training and a contact for training seekers. Young people with special needs are individually advised with regard to their career orientation, career choice and career planning, and are accompanied in their training.

Special training fairs in Bremerhaven:
Bremerhaven institutions, education providers, companies as well as the university provide information at the Berufsinformationsmesse (BIM) [Career Information Fair] about apprenticeships and study opportunities. The BIM is an initiative of the City of Bremerhaven and Job4u and presents trends, opportunities and perspectives for training and studying in the region to young people.

In addition, there is a special fair for training and studies called “Vocatium” once a year in Bremerhaven and Bremen.

The large job fairs in the State of Bremen are also a good opportunity to get to know companies from many different sectors and to look for a suitable training or study place.

Jobmesse Bremen

Jobmesse Nord in Bremen

The job market is in a constant state of flux – not least due to digitalization. Skilled workers are in high demand in all sectors because of their qualifications. Targeted further training keeps expert know-how up to date and increases one’s personal value on the job market. Job changes also become easier with sound specialist knowledge.

The Employment Agency offers employees comprehensive advice on the subject of careers, further education and qualification. Information for employees on refresher training or further vocational training is available here, while in the Berufsinformationszentrum (BiZ) [Career Information Centre] you will find everything you need for a job search or a professional reorientation.

The Bremen Chamber of Commerce – CCI for Bremen and Bremerhaven is a competent contact for both Bremerhaven and Bremen on the subject of further education and qualification for employees and skilled workers. Learn more about the current course offers here.

Various courses and qualification seminars for people who are interested in further education are also organized by the Bremen Chamber of Crafts.

The Bildungszentrum der Wirtschaft im Unterwesergebiet (BWU) [Educational Centre of Industry in the Lower Weser Region] is the training and further education institution of the business associations in the State of Bremen. It offers, among other things, retraining, continuing education, initial and further training seminars, and exam preparation.

The Kreishandwerkerschaft Bremerhaven-Wesermünde [District Crafts Association] unites various offers on the subject of further education and qualification under one roof. As part of the crafts organization, it provides craft master classes, inter-company apprentice instruction, retraining, advanced training and vocational orientation.

Its educational institutions are:
- InCoTrain GmbH (Ingenieurdienstleistung Coaching Training GmbH)
- Akademie des Handwerks an der Unterweser (AdH)
- Berufsbildungs- und Technologiezentrum (BTZ) [Vocational Training and Technology Centre]

The Institut für berufliche Bildung (IBB) [Institute for Vocational Education] is a private, supraregional education provider with an office in Bremerhaven. It is the point of contact for both employees and companies for the identification and implementation of suitable upskilling, advanced training and retraining measures.

As a subsidiary of the Arbeitsförderungs-Zentrum im Lande Bremen [Employment Promotion Centre], Berufliche Bildung Bremerhaven (BBB) is a service provider for, among other things, further education, retraining and qualification. BBB is a contact point for employees as well as employers.

Bfw Bremerhaven – Unternehmen für Bildung is an education and training centre for wind energy technology and offers retraining and further education in the metal and electrical sector for employees and job seekers.

WISOAK is the Business and Social Academy of the Chamber of Employees. It offers numerous further vocational training and qualification measures.

Volkshochschule Bremerhaven (VHS) is a municipal further education institution and offers a wide range of qualification and further education courses, including the acquisition of school-leaving certificates for adults.

Comprehensive funding possibilities for further education and qualification are offered by the Employment Agency to employees.

The Federal Ministry of Education and Research supports employed persons with lower incomes by issuing the so-called Bildungsprämie [Learning Voucher]. This is a subsidy for job-related, individual further education.

The Begabtenförderung [Talent Development Grant] is awarded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research. It consists of a further education or advancement scholarship for employed persons who have completed vocational training as well as for students and doctoral candidates.

The Stiftung Begabtenförderung Berufliche Bildung (SBB) [Vocational Training Foundation for the Highly Talented] is a non-profit organisation. It supports employees with a further education scholarship from the programme for career entrants and an advancement scholarship as a study grant for experienced professionals.

Upgrading Training Assistance supports the preparation for more than 700 advanced training qualifications such as craft master, certified specialist, technician, educator or business administrator.

For students from abroad:
Citizens of foreign countries who live in Germany can also receive BAföG [Training Assistance] as financial support during their studies or schooling.

The Employment Agency supports people from abroad with a comprehensive package of services to help them integrate into the German labour market.

The portal “Make it in Germany” of the Federal Government informs and advises foreign professionals or people interested in immigration on the aspects of entry, visa, everyday life and job search. Here you will find subject-specific information on vocational opportunities in Germany (industry, region …), on professional recognition as well as on training and studies.

The Bremen Chamber of Commerce – CCI for Bremen and Bremerhaven informs and advises people from abroad on the topics of training, qualification and integration as well as on the recognition of foreign professional qualifications.

EURES (European Employment Services, the European Job Mobility Portal) is a cooperation network of employment services in all EU countries (plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland). EURES helps job seekers throughout Europe to find a job.

The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi – formerly the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology) offers the BQ-Portal as part of the Qualified Professionals Initiative. This information portal for foreign vocational qualifications bundles all relevant information on foreign professional qualifications and vocational training systems on one platform.

On the Blue Card Portal, you can find information about the EU Blue Card Germany for highly qualified personnel from non-EU countries who would like to work in Germany.

A useful information portal on foreign vocational qualifications is to be found at anabin. This site mainly addresses the recognition and assessment of foreign educational qualifications.

Information on topics relating to the reconciliation of work and family life for employees, such as on re-entry into work, support services or working time models, is provided in detail on the website of the Employment Agency.

An individual and comprehensive counselling programme especially for women is offered by the Arbeitsförderungs-Zentrum im Lande Bremen (afz) [Employment Promotion Centre] with its coordination and counselling centre “Zukunft im Beruf” (ZiB).

The Bremen Chamber of Commerce – CCI for Bremen and Bremerhaven informs and advises, among other things, on the subject of “part-time training” in order to give single parents and young parents in particular the opportunity of vocational training.

Bremerhaven is not just the only major city on the German North Sea coast. As a lively port city with tradition, culture and bustling activity, it combines job qualities with a high recreational value and, at the same time, a low cost of living. The search for living space or building plots is straightforward, due to a suitable range of offers and short decision paths. In addition, the infrastructure as well as the school and day-care landscape are excellent. Thanks to its location on the Outer Weser, Bremerhaven has a significant advantage over other cities: On one side of town, the water is a wonderful recreational element while, on the other side, the vast green hinterland of meadows and forests is just a stone’s throw away. All of this, together with the many cultural institutions and the exciting culinary landscape, results in an appealing atmosphere and quality of life which is unique as an excellent location feature.

Anyone who needs suitable living space in Bremerhaven or wants to build their own house will find central and uncomplicated points of contact here. The housing companies and cooperatives are happy to look into their portfolios for suitable offers.

Gewoba (Gemeinnützige Wohnungsbaugemeinschaft – a non-profit housing association)
STÄWOG (Städtische Wohnungsgesellschaft Bremerhaven)
WoGe (Wohnungsgenossenschaft Bremerhaven eG)

Seestadt Immobilien is a company owned by the City of Bremerhaven that is responsible for the infrastructure provision and administration of new building plots.

Live where others spend their holidays. This common saying really takes on meaning in Bremerhaven. Situated right on the waterside with fresh sea breezes, a wide range of leisure activities and attractive residential options, the Seaside City is a wonderful place to live and work. The biggest plus point, however, is the open manner and warmth of the locals. Anyone who wants to gain a foothold in Bremerhaven as a new professional is welcomed with open arms.

“i2b” is the largest business and science network in Northern Germany and offers extensive information on companies and institutions, especially for skilled workers.

The NSWW – Network of Schools, Industry and Research for the Lower Weser Region (motto: “Scholars are the skilled workers of tomorrow”) – is concerned with the exchange of experience and information between schools, companies and economic institutions, such as Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences. Cooperation between educational institutions and companies, seminars, advice on internship opportunities and the organization of career information fairs (BIB) also form part of the tasks.

The Wind Energy Agency WAB is an industry network for the wind industry. As an interface between politics and industry, the WAB represents the interests of the offshore wind industry throughout Germany and is the point of contact for the onshore network in the Northwest region. Its range of services: Trade fairs and events, international cooperation, press and public relations, studies and project work, and the qualification of specialists and executives.

The Senator for Economic Affairs, Labour and Europe, in cooperation with WFB Economic Development Bremen, invites human resources managers to a round table discussion four times a year.

The knowledge and technology transfer ”SCIENCE meets BUSINESS” at Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences brings the scientific focal points of the University closer to a large circle of interested parties on two evenings a year. The exchange of ideas between the worlds of business and science encourages cooperation. The target groups are not only associations, political bodies and administrations, but also professionals.

The Arbeitsförderungs-Zentrum im Lande Bremen (afz) [Employment Promotion Centre] is a counselling centre for job hunters and acts as an employment network for interconnecting industry and business, employees and employment seekers as well as authorities and institutions.

Nahrungs- und Genussmittelwirtschaft Bremen (Nageb) is an association representing the interests of the food, beverage and tobacco industry in Bremen, Bremerhaven and the surrounding area of Lower Saxony. In particular, the goal is to advance developments in infrastructure, transport, ports, energy supply, education and training that are important for the quality of Bremerhaven as a location.

The Pier der Wissenschaft is an alliance of scientific facilities in Bremerhaven. Public projects and events take place under this name. Through cooperation with the City and business as well as an exchange with the urban society, the network aims to contribute to a knowledge-based urban development.

BIS Economic Development Bremerhaven also publishes interesting topics relating to the economy, further education and skilled workers in its newsletter. If you would like to subscribe to the newsletter (in German), please click here.

On the website Fachkräfte für Bremen [Professionals for Bremen], job seekers will find helpful information as well as an extensive career portal for starting their profession or for vocational advancement. There is also comprehensive information on Bremen as a location.

The Senator for Economic Affairs, Labour and Europe, in cooperation with WFB Economic Development Bremen, hosts a round table discussion for human resources managers four times a year. The aim is to exchange know-how and to network with other HR managers.

“MINT” – Mathematics, Informatics, Natural Science, Technology (the German form of STEM)

In Bremerhaven and throughout Germany, there is a shortage of qualified personnel, especially in MINT occupations and primarily in training occupations. The goal is therefore to strengthen MINT skills and abilities in all areas of education. Graduates of MINT training and study courses find attractive career entries and paths – with companies in the metal and electrical industry, in the chemical industry or in the IT sector, but increasingly also in the service sector with banks and insurance companies.

In order to foster MINT courses of study, Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences has launched the project Campus: MINT.

As a nationwide MINT network, “MINT Zukunft schaffen!” [Creating the MINT future] is providing fresh momentum.

In the State of Bremen, the recruitment of skilled personnel is an essential part of structural policy. Various departments and external players are developing a strategy and fields of action on the topics of qualification, training, labour market participation and location attractiveness.

For the Federal Government’s strategy on skilled workers, go here.