The vessel offers an illustrious wage package
In a groundbreaking study, the Ludwig-Fröler Institute for Craft Science evaluated over 8000 data sets on the wages of over 2800 craft businesses in the Stuttgart region. The study, commissioned by eight local craft chambers, found good money to be made in many construction and renovation professions within the craft sector.
The study's findings suggest that the craft sector offers competitive wages compared to other industries. In many construction and renovation professions, more than 1000 euros gross per month are paid in the first year of training. As trainees gain experience and qualifications, their wages increase significantly. Many craftsmen earn at least 19 euros per hour and more, with top salaries for masters reaching up to 8000 euros per month.
Tile layers, masons, chimney sweeps, or plumbers, for example, earn between 21 and 23 euros per hour. Craft masters, on average, earn consistently above 4000 euros gross per month. The level of wages depends on factors such as the trade, the turnover of the business, and the qualifications and work experience of the employee.
Peter Haas, CEO of Handwerk BW, commented on the results of the study, stating that the craft sector in Stuttgart offers competitive wages compared to other industries. He further emphasised that general statements about low craft wages are not valid.
The authors of the survey conclude that the craft sector pays competitive wages from the start of employment. Those who pass the master's exam can compete with technicians in industry or engineers with a bachelor's degree in terms of salary. However, there are large differences in wages, especially among masters, in the craft sector.
Jürgen Schmidt, who can be contacted at 0711 66601-147 or j.schmidt@our website, was instrumental in conducting the study. The new study commissioned by eight craft chambers in the region further highlights the importance and competitiveness of the craft sector in Stuttgart.
While the craft sector's average wages may be lower than those in in-demand high-tech and engineering sectors, they are competitive within skilled labor markets. Apprenticeship and vocational training in crafts come with legal minimum wage protections for trainees, indicating structured wage floors but often lower initial income compared to professional sectors.
In summary, the study reveals that the craft sector in Stuttgart offers competitive wages, with many construction and renovation professions providing solid earnings from the start of employment. The findings underscore the importance of the craft sector as a necessary and strong-demand sector in Germany, especially in supporting infrastructure needs in urban and rural areas.
Economic and social policy should consider the competitive wages offered by the craft sector when addressing labor market issues. Those considering a career in the craft sector, especially in construction and renovation, can expect competitive remuneration from the beginning, with good potential for wage growth over time. In comparisons with other industries and even certain tech and engineering sectors, the craft sector's average wages may be lower, but within skilled labor markets, they remain competitive. Finance, business, and education-and-self-development, such as apprenticeships and vocational training, can play vital roles in capitalizing on the solid earnings available in the craft sector, supporting sustainable economic growth and versatile careers.
