The number of vacancies in Germany reached a new high at end of last year. In fourth quarter of 2017, re were almost 1.2 million vacant jobs nationwide, as announced by Institute for Labour Market and Vocational Research (IAB). These were 128,000 vacancies more than in same period last year.

In 2012, number of vacancies in fourth quarter had lain at 870,000. At end of last year, according to IAB 918,000 employees were sought in West Germany, in East Germany 265,000. The largest increases were recorded by manufacturing industry and construction sector.

Thus, more than half of vacancies are available in small companies with fewer than 50 employees. Companies are facing an ever-smaller range of job seekers: On average, re were only 194 unemployed in west, and 225 unemployed in east – lowest value in both parts of country for 25 years. "The figures show improved job market opportunities for applicants, but y also mean increasing challenges for employers in recruitment," said IAB researcher Alexander Kubis.

For quarterly survey, IAB evaluated information from 15,000 companies. All vacancies are counted, including those that have not been reported to employment agencies.

Date Of Update: 07 March 2018, 12:03