IT-System-Elektroniker: Ausbildung in Germany
The most hands-on, hardware-focused IT profession, for those who like to build and commission with their own hands.
The profession
The IT-System-Elektroniker is the most hardware-oriented and hands-on IT profession: they install, wire and commission IT and communication systems, networks and power supply.
Salary
During the Ausbildung in the metal and electrical industry, pay is about 1,258 / 1,312 / 1,378 € per month (source: Federal Employment Agency, 2025). After the diploma, entry pay ranges from about 2,200 € (no tariff) to 2,800 € (with tariff), reaches roughly 3,200 to 3,800 € with experience, and the cross-population median sits around 4,011 € per month (source: Gehalt.de, 2025).
Duration and path
The dual training in the company and the Berufsschule lasts 3 years. It ends with the final exam of the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK).
Employers hiring
Telecom and network infrastructure players (Deutsche Telekom foremost), IT and electrical firms as well as industry recruit actively.
Prospects
Prospects are high, driven by the ongoing buildout of network and communication infrastructure.
Career progression
You can specialise, earn a Techniker or Meister qualification, or move toward systems administration.
Language level
The vocational school, the exam and the company all operate in German. Level B2 is the standard for success, and it is the level we aim for in our language training.
Recognition and access
Access is through an Ausbildung contract signed with a German company; the IHK diploma is a title recognised throughout Germany. No prior equivalence is needed since the training takes place in Germany.
Visa
Entry is with the vocational training visa (Ausbildung). Once you graduate, you switch to a skilled-worker permit to work in Germany.
Your Karriere Fähre support
We train you in German up to the required level, find the company and the Ausbildung contract, prepare the visa file and support you all the way to your settling in.
Frequently asked questions
- Is it more hardware-focused than the Fachinformatiker?
- Yes, it is the most hardware-focused IT profession, with plenty of on-site installation, wiring and commissioning.
- Can I pursue a Meister afterwards?
- Yes, after a few years of experience you can aim for a Techniker or Meister, which open leadership and responsibility roles.
Indicative gross ranges from public German sources (StepStone, Gehalt.de, Federal Employment Agency, Bitkom, IHK). Salary portals differ and update their data; real figures depend on region, employer, collective agreement and experience. Visa rules change: always check your case with the competent German authorities.