MEP role landing page

Plumber (Anlagenmechaniker SHK)

Install and service water, sewage and heating pipe systems in buildings. This page explains realistic requirements, documentation, and onboarding for English-speaking candidates on Germany-based projects.

Locations: Berlin • Hamburg • Munich • NRW Work type: project-based sites Pay: gross (brutto) Compliance baseline: Germany min. wage €13.90 gross/h (from 01 Jan 2026) Last updated:
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Vacancy context

Why this role is continuously in demand

German construction and refurbishment projects require reliable plumbing and heating installation teams to keep timelines stable and commissioning predictable. For Anlagenmechaniker SHK profiles, employers usually prioritize verified hands-on experience (install, test, handover) and strong documentation over “generic” claims.

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Work authorization (non-EU)

Reality check: Germany requires a legal route

For most candidates, language is not the only factor. Non-EU applicants typically need an appropriate residence/work pathway. Skilled profiles with documented qualifications have more realistic options than entry-level profiles.

  • Skilled worker route: more realistic when your vocational qualification can be recognized and your profile fits SHK tasks.
  • Project documentation matters: sites often require traceable experience (tasks, tools, dates, references).
  • Compliance baseline: pay and conditions must respect German rules applicable to the project and sector.

This is general information and not legal advice. Final eligibility depends on nationality, documents, employer requirements, and authorities.

What you will do

Core responsibilities (site-focused)

Tools and methods you should recognize
Common on German sites
Pressfitting • threaded connections • brackets/rails • insulation basics • sealants • commissioning checks
Expected work behavior
Self-control on quality • early reporting of issues • safe work around active systems • consistent pace
What we look for

Requirements (detailed, practical)

Practical screening tip
If your CV includes a short project list (country/city, dates, tasks, tools used), your verification is typically faster. Add 3–6 bullet points per project and keep it factual.
Short candidate portrait

Who fits best

  • Works independently and can finish a zone without constant supervision.
  • Comfortable with installation quality checks (alignment, sealing, pressure test readiness).
  • Understands site rhythm: coordination with drywall, electrical, and HVAC teams.
  • Communicates clearly in English about progress, blockers, and materials.
  • Brings documented experience (photos optional, but dates/tasks are required).
  • Respects safety and keeps work areas organized.
Helpful extras: German A1–A2, driving license, plant room experience, retrofit/renovation exposure.
Pay & compliance

Gross (brutto) pay baseline

All pay references on this page are gross (brutto). The legal baseline in Germany is the statutory minimum wage:

€13.90 gross per hour
Germany statutory minimum wage (effective from 01 January 2026).

Skilled SHK profiles commonly exceed the statutory baseline depending on experience, region, shift pattern, and site complexity. Final conditions are defined by the project, the employment model, and compliance requirements.

Important: sector/collective rules and posted-worker requirements may set a higher effective floor for certain assignments.
Selection criteria

What increases your chances

Higher chance • documented experience + clear CV
Higher chance • vocational certificate / training proof
Higher chance • readiness for German site rules + safety briefings
Nice to have • basic German (A1–A2) + driving license
If you lack formal documents, your application may still be reviewed for helper/support roles when available, but skilled-route options become less realistic.
Working in Germany with a Polish employer

What “Polish company on German projects” typically means

Many Germany assignments are delivered by teams employed by a Polish company and delegated to German sites. Operationally, you work on-site in Germany, while the employer handles payroll and documentation within the agreed legal model.

Work permit / documentation clarity
If your case requires Polish-side work authorization processes, use: https://mavial.pl/zezwolenie.html (internal MaViAl page).

This section is general operational information and not legal advice. Final conditions depend on the project, nationality, documents, and authority decisions.

Documents

Prepare these before applying

Fast verification checklist

Put the following in your CV: years of experience, systems installed, test experience, availability date, preferred location.

How to apply

Fast, structured application

No CV — no review. This rule protects processing time and ensures consistent screening.

FAQ

Questions candidates ask before onboarding

Answers below are tailored to this role and this page (anti-template engine selects a stable set for this URL).