Your apprenticeship search in Vienna: 5,000 applicants, only 500 open positions
The new school year has begun, and for young people looking to start an apprenticeship, the Vienna market is tighter than it has been in a long time. There are around 5,000 registered apprenticeship seekers facing only about 500 open positions. This means there are roughly ten times as many applicants as there are available spots. Andreas Kuen from the Public Employment Service (AMS) laments that the number of company-based apprenticeships continues to fall and is pushing for more positions within businesses.
Those primarily affected are young people in their final year of compulsory schooling and young adults under 25 who have not found a training position after leaving school. The Vienna Economic Chamber points out that requirements in all apprenticeship trades have risen sharply recently, making it more difficult for companies to find suitable apprentices. There are over 200 apprenticeship trades to choose from in principle.
At the Polytechnic and Vocational Middle School Maiselgasse in the third district, around 300 students are completing their final year of compulsory schooling. There, youth coaches visit the classrooms several times a week. "We place approximately 60 percent of our students in the primary labor market," says principal Irene Ditrich. About 20 percent continue their education at another school.
For the remaining 20 percent, the AMS service center for those under 25 is the first point of contact. If you or your child are currently searching, register with the AMS early rather than waiting for an acceptance letter.
Keep your search radius open beyond your desired profession, as the 500 available positions are distributed very unevenly across industries. Ask at school about youth coaching while the compulsory school year is still in progress. Anyone who does not find a company-based position by autumn should inquire about inter-company training, which is facilitated by the AMS.