Challenges and prospects for the future

There is a huge shortage of production specialists in the German chemical industry. Companies are facing major challenges: there is a lack of qualified personnel to maintain production and drive innovation. This is not only a problem for the chemical industry, but for the entire economy, because chemical products are used in numerous sectors.

But how serious is the problem really? What solutions are there and what does the future of chemical industry out? In this article, we give you a comprehensive overview of the skills shortage. As well as the occupational groups affected, causes and possible countermeasures.

Chemical production workers – lack of skilled workers

The chemical industry is particularly affected by the skills shortage. The term skills shortage describes the growing gap between the need for qualified production specialists and the staff actually available. The need for chemical production employees has not only been this high since yesterday. But in recent years the shortage has worsened. The bottleneck is particularly noticeable among chemical production specialists and chemical technicians. According to a recent study by Statista, there is a shortage of several thousand production workers in Germany, and the number continues to rise.

The result? An industry whose efficiency and innovative strength are being hampered. In an economically and industrially important country like Germany, this is no small matter. If companies in the chemical industry do not achieve their production targets, this has far-reaching consequences for suppliers and customers.

Chemical industry: Affected sectors and companies

The pharmaceutical industry, manufacturers of specialty chemicals and plastics producers are particularly hard hit by the shortage of skilled production workers. These companies need not only general workers, but also highly specialized workers. Medium-sized companies are also feeling the effects of the crisis, as they are generally unable to offer less attractive salaries and working conditions.

Large companies such as Bayer, BASF or Evonik can compensate for some of this by introducing automated processes. Medium-sized companies, on the other hand, often do not have the financial means to do this. They are therefore under enormous pressure to find a solution.

What are the reasons for the shortage of production workers in the chemical industry?

There are several reasons for the shortage of skilled workers in the chemical industry. These can be divided into four main categories:

1. Demographic change:
   Germany has a aging population, which means that more and more experienced workers are retiring without enough new recruits to replace them. This trend is likely to increase in the coming years. The reason for this is that the baby boomer generation retires. The chemical industry will be particularly hard hit by this, as it generally has an older workforce.
2. Chemistry as a profession? No thanks! A career as a chemical technician or production specialist in the chemical industry is not a dream job for many young people! They prefer to look towards career fields that seem more interesting and innovative. The chemical industry has a huge image problem: old-fashioned and not exactly forward-looking - this is something that particularly puts off Generation Z.
3. Mismatch between supply and demand:
   Supply seeks demand, and does not find it – The ultra-modern production processes in the chemical industry are demanding and require specialist knowledge and technical understanding. But are there training programs that offer exactly that? Unfortunately, hardly any. This creates a real matchmaking problem between the expectations of companies and the qualifications of job seekers.
4. Competition from other industries:
   The competition never sleeps, skilled workers are sought everywhere: the construction industry, automotive industry and IT-Branche are just as competitive in attracting skilled workers – and often lure them with better salaries and more attractive working conditions. chemical company have to work really hard to keep up!

The Association of the Chemical Industry (VCI) In its study “Chemistry 4.0 – Growth through Innovation in a Changing World”, the chemical and pharmaceutical industry in Germany is facing significant demographic challenges stands. 

What makes a chemical production specialist so important?

One production specialist for chemistry is the core of the chemical industry – the Hercules in the lab coat, so to speak. Without these professionals, nothing in production runs: They ensure that machines purr like kittens, Production processes run like clockwork and the strict quality standards are met. Whether it's operating machines, monitoring processes or simply carrying out maintenance - these specialists have what it takes!

But the Skills shortage is causing the industry a lot of trouble: More and more companies are having to either reduce production or increase the workload of the remaining employees. This not only reduces productivity, but also increases the risk of errors. This makes it clear that without sufficient Production specialists the future of the chemical industry is pretty shaky!

Production Specialist Chemistry – Training – Profession

Job description: Responsibility in chemical production

Production specialists in chemistry are responsible for products such as fertilizers, mineral oil products and paints – without them, the industry would be colorless! Your mission? To mix recipes as precisely as a star chef mixes his ingredients, to optimally adjust the production facilities and to constantly keep an eye on every process. quality checks are also on their to-do list to ensure that everything meets the highest standards.

They also take samples for the Laboratory analysis and keep the machines in good working order so that the entire production process runs smoothly. In short: They ensure that everything in chemical production stays exactly where it belongs.

Dual Training for Production Specialists in Chemistry

The training to become a production specialist in chemistry takes two years and is based on the dual system - so twice the fun and twice the practice: a bit of school, a bit of work, and voila, you're in the chemistry business! Official school requirements? There aren't any! But many trainees have an intermediate or secondary school qualification, which makes it easier for them to get started. According to Statista, chemical production fell by 7.6 percent in 2023.

Requirements and competencies 

Successful production specialists in the chemical industry bring some key skills Here are some points:

• Care: nothing is done here based on intuition – exact adherence to recipes is a must, otherwise there will be no top products!
• Technical understanding: from simple buttons to high-tech machines – operating and maintaining complex systems is part of daily business.
• Reaction speed: Production disruptions? No problem – lightning-fast reactions are required to keep the business running.
• Sense of responsibility: Dealing with expensive equipment is not for the careless – this requires a real sense of responsibility.

These skills are crucial to guaranteeing high standards in chemical production and ensuring safe, efficient operation of the plants.

Production Specialist for Chemicals – Earning Opportunities

You can earn a lot in chemical production - depending on your experience and location, of course! Production specialists start with a salary somewhere between 31,320 euros and 38,983 euros per year, which is not bad at all. On average, they earn around 37,584 euros per year or 3,132 euros per month. With increasing experience and the right instinct for the business, real professionals can even make up to 41,064 euros!

Career development opportunities and prospects

After your training, things really get started - the chemical industry has exciting training options! If you want to gain further qualifications, you can take the leap to become an industrial master or technician in chemical engineering. There are also a ton of specializations that enable individual career steps and take your skills to the next level. There is a suitable career path for every production specialist in chemistry!

How the chemical industry is preparing for the shortage of skilled workers

The chemical industry is coming up with a number of ideas to combat the acute shortage of skilled workers – here are the best tricks:

• Training programs and further education: Some companies do it themselves and rely on internal training programs! This way, the young talent is specifically adapted to the company's requirements and tied to the company in the long term. Win-win!
• Cooperation with educational institutions: Through exciting practical projects and study programs, companies are bringing fresh talent into training. Thanks to dual study programs, there is also a full load of practice and theory - ideal for anyone who likes hands-on work!
• More attractive working conditions: In order to compete for skilled workers, companies today have to offer more than just a solid salary. Flexible working hours, a pleasant working atmosphere and attractive remuneration are now a must in order to attract skilled workers and keep them in the long term.
• government initiatives: The German government is also getting involved and is promoting vocational training and further education with funding programs and financial incentives for companies – real support in the fight against the shortage of skilled workers!

A study by the Institute for Employment and Employability (IBE) in collaboration with Hays, the "HR Report 2023: Employee Retention" shows that companies with structured training programs were able to increase their employee satisfaction and retention by up to 30%.

Chemical production specialists from abroad – the salvation for the chemical industry?

In order to counteract the skilled labor shortage in the chemical industry, many companies are now relying on international reinforcements. Countries such as India, the Philippines and Eastern Europe are full of talented, well-trained specialists who could shake up the German chemical industry.

But of course, the integration of these skilled workers also brings with it a few hurdles: language barriers, differences in training systems and cultural subtleties can sometimes make the start here a bumpy one. Nevertheless, more and more companies are venturing down this path and investing in integration measures to get their new colleagues on board quickly.

Demographic change – the chemical industry in upheaval

Demographic change is causing a lot of headaches in the chemical industry: an ageing workforce and fewer young specialists mean a risk of knowledge loss and gaps in personnel planning. The solution? Companies must get creative in order to secure the knowledge of the "old hands" and at the same time bring fresh talent on board!

What is needed are clever strategies such as knowledge management, mentoring programs and exciting career paths for young talent. This way, the know-how stays in the company and the chemical industry remains viable for the future - because without a breath of fresh air, things quickly get tricky!

Digitalization – opportunity or challenge for the chemical industry?

Digitalization is also bringing a breath of fresh air to the chemical industry - with new opportunities and a few stumbling blocks! On the one hand, digital technologies can optimize processes at full speed and initiate real innovations. On the other hand, this requires specialists who not only master chemistry, but also bits and bytes.

The skills shortage can become a real brake here if companies do not step up their game. The solution? Further training, further training, further training! Those who invest in digital skills stay in the race and ensure that digital transformation does not become a half-measure.

Sustainability and new job profiles

The sustainability trend is also something new in the chemical industry: suddenly there is a demand for new job profiles that revolve entirely around green chemistry and environmentally friendly production methods. Anyone who is familiar with sustainable materials and eco-technologies is the new star here!

So that the Chemical industry In order not to lose touch, companies have to step in: streamline training programs for sustainability and invest in "green" skills, that's the motto. This way, the industry stays fit for the future and gives the market the green thumb it needs to meet its demands!

Flexible working models – the secret recipe for employee retention?

Home office, flexitime, part-time models – flexible working models are the new wildcards in the battle for skilled workers! In times of a shortage of skilled workers, these offers can make a real difference: those who can work flexibly appreciate the better work-life balance and are more likely to remain loyal to their employer.

Companies that rely on such models increase their attractiveness enormously. Because let's be honest - who wants rigid 9-to-5 office hours these days when you can just as easily work from the couch with a laptop? Flexibility is the key to employee retention and makes the employer really attractive!

Countries with skilled labor potential – where it’s worth looking

When it comes to new talent for the chemical industry, there are a few real hotspots around the globe:

• India and China: These countries are teeming with graduates in chemistry and engineering. These countries are absolute talent factories and could be worth their weight in gold for the industry.
• Eastern Europe: Slovakia, Poland, Hungary and the Czech Republic not only have qualified specialists, but often also knowledge of German - perfect for quickly settling into the team!
• Philippines: Flexible, adaptable and highly educated – the Philippines brings with it a strong supply of chemical and engineering professionals who could rock the global job market.

These countries offer plenty of opportunities to meet the demand for skilled workers and provide companies with the power they need for sustainable growth and innovation!

Requirements for chemical specialists from abroad – what counts for the job in Germany

In order for international talents to get started in the German chemical industry, there are a few hurdles that must first be overcome:

• Language skills: Good knowledge of German is a must! Especially in the chemical industry, it is important to understand safety instructions and process specifications - without this, things can quickly become dangerous.
• Recognition of training: Foreign qualifications must be recognized. This may sound bureaucratic and may take time, but unfortunately nothing can be done without this in the chemical industry.
• Visa regulations: A visa is a must for skilled workers from abroad. Fortunately, the Skilled Worker Immigration Act makes it a little easier to bring qualified talent on board.

These prerequisites are important in order to successfully integrate foreign skilled workers into the German labor market and thus boost the competitiveness of chemical companies!

Differences and Similarities in the Chemical and Pharmaceutical Industries

There are some differences, but also similarities in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. Here we list some:

Strict safety and health standards

• Chemical industry: Things often get hot here! Flammable or toxic chemicals are the order of the day. That's why protective clothing, helmets and goggles are essential - safety first!
• Pharmaceutical industry: In pharmaceutical labs, it's more about cleanliness than danger. Sterile rooms are a must, and all stops are pulled out to avoid any contamination - white coats rather than big danger signs!

Work environment: loud and dynamic or sterile and quiet?

• Chemical industry: Loud and lively! There is a lot of activity in large halls with whirring machines. A dynamic environment for everyone who likes action.
• Pharmaceutical industry: More like "quiet please" - sterile, quiet work in the laboratory or in special rooms. Concentration is required here, instead of loud machines, only the next analysis device hums.

Collective bargaining and working conditions

• Chemical industry: Top security! Around 78% of jobs are covered by collective agreements, meaning decent wages and stable working conditions – you can plan ahead here.
• Pharmaceutical industry: Collective bargaining coverage? It depends. Many companies offer good conditions, but the collective bargaining standard for the chemical industry is not achieved everywhere.

Weiterbildungsmöglichkeiten und Karriereperspektiven

• Chemical industry: There are many further training opportunities here – whether you are a chemical technician, a master craftsman or more, the career ladder is packed!
• Pharmaceutical industry: The pharmaceutical sector is about specialization in research and development. Biotechnology, clinical research, etc. are waiting for those who want to get ahead.

Chemistry and Pharmaceuticals – Two Worlds, One Goal

The main differences? The chemical industry loves dynamics and often deals with dangerous substances - here things have to be robust and safe! The pharmaceutical industry, on the other hand, relies entirely on precision and sterile conditions, where cleanliness is the be-all and end-all.

But both industries have one thing in common: they attract skilled workers with attractive prospects, high levels of collective bargaining coverage and plenty of training opportunities. Regardless of whether you are interested in action or analysis, chemistry and pharmaceuticals offer exciting careers for every taste!

Schools and institutions for training as a production specialist in chemistry in Germany

There are several renowned schools and institutes in Germany that specialize in training production specialists in chemistry. Here are some of the best known institutions and the training they offer.

Justus-von-Liebig-Schule Hannover: Dual training in the heart of chemistry

• Training offer: The Justus-von-Liebig School offers a comprehensive dual training course to become a production specialist in chemistry, which teaches both theory and practical skills. Here, trainees learn how to operate production facilities, control work processes and dispose of waste in an environmentally friendly manner.

Institut Dr. Flad: Tradition and Modernity in Chemistry Teaching

• Specialization: The Dr. Flad Institute has made a name for itself through its comprehensive training in the chemical field and has been successfully training chemical technicians and production specialists for many years. In addition to the regular training, there are numerous additional programs to promote professional opportunities.
• Special features: The training is characterized by a strong focus on modern laboratory equipment and practice-oriented teaching materials.

BASF training program: Practical chemistry training with career opportunities

• Training program: BASF offers practical training to become a production specialist in chemistry. The training provides both chemical knowledge and technical knowledge for monitoring production processes.
• Career opportunities: Graduates have many opportunities for further qualification at BASF, for example as a chemical technician or engineer.

Training to become a production specialist in chemistry – theory meets practice!

The training to become a production specialist in chemistry is carried out in the dual system - here the motto is: theory from the vocational school meets practice in the company! This means that prospective chemistry professionals are perfectly prepared for the challenges in the chemical industry. Schools and training programs provide the necessary knowledge and practical skills that will make the difference later on - the ideal launching pad for a successful career in the chemical industry!

Government support

The German government has launched several programs to attract foreign skilled workers and support their integration. These include:

• Support programs for companies that employ foreign skilled workers.
• Language courses and cultural integration offers.
• Visa facilitation through the Skilled Worker Immigration Act.

These measures are already showing success and could make an important contribution to securing skilled workers in the future.

Finding skilled workers made easy: optimization instead of perfection

Many companies overshoot the mark when recruiting staff: Multilingual, ten years of experience and preferably already in their mid-20s? Unrealistic! A more flexible approach often brings more: Companies should differentiate between must-haves and nice-to-haves. Young talent, experienced specialists on a part-time basis – why not?

And what about language skills? Perhaps "construction site German" is enough instead of insisting on perfect grammar. Speed ​​is also worth its weight in gold - endless recruitment processes often cost the best people. Companies that focus on flexibility, clear communication and precise allocation ultimately attract the skilled workers who really count.

Unique challenges in recruiting in the chemical industry

The chemical industry doesn't make it easy for HR managers! It requires specialists with extremely specific skills - not exactly the classic all-rounder job. The industry is a small universe in itself, with huge facilities, lots of noise, dirt and sometimes dangerous substances involved. This not only discourages people, but also makes it difficult to find career changers. The only people who could keep up come from power plants or energy sectors.

In addition, there are job profiles in the chemical industry that cannot be found in other industries - finding additional production specialists is therefore like looking for a needle in a haystack.

Study on the shortage of skilled workers in the chemical industry

The skilled labor shortage in Germany has become more pronounced than previously assumed. According to a recent survey by the Bertelsmann Stiftung, 66 percent of the companies surveyed report existing skilled labor shortages. Professions that require completed vocational training are particularly affected; 48 percent of companies report a shortage here. In comparison, 27 percent report a lack of academics. Industries such as the care and healthcare sector are also particularly badly affected.

There are shortages in all federal states, with a greater extent in Bavaria, Brandenburg, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia. Despite these challenges, only 16 percent of companies rely on recruiting foreign skilled workers. Frequently cited challenges are language barriers and the difficulty of assessing foreign qualifications.

Success stories

Some companies have discovered the recipe for success for integrating foreign skilled workers! BASF relies on language training and cultural workshops - this way, international talents quickly find their way and immediately feel like part of the team. Evonik is also showing how it's done: Together with the authorities, they have developed mentoring programs that make it super easy for new employees from abroad to get started.

Even a medium-sized chemical company in Bavaria was able to rock it - thanks to language courses and mentors, they managed to bring several specialists from India onto the team. The result? Productivity increased and employee loyalty was noticeably strengthened.

Summary and outlook

The skills shortage in the chemical industry remains a challenge, but also an opportunity for innovative solutions. With a combination of targeted training, the involvement of foreign skilled workers and government support, the industry could get back on track for success in the long term.

A big lever? Promote MINT education! The more young talents are trained in mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology, the better the next generation is secured. Partnerships between companies and educational institutions also pay off, because they provide practical and targeted training.

Then there is the power of digitalization: Artificial intelligence and automation can cushion the shortage of skilled workers by automating recurring tasks and freeing up skilled personnel for more demanding tasks.

But one thing is clear: the path to this goal requires commitment and adaptability. Companies must be open to change and invest specifically in the development and retention of talent. Through active cooperation with politicians and educational institutions and the expansion of international networks, the chemical industry can create the basis for a sustainable and competitive industry.

Mastering the shortage of skilled workers: Temporary Employment International as a partner

With Zeitarbeit International at your side, companies in the chemical industry have a strong partner to bring the right team on board even in times of a shortage of skilled workers! Whether chemical technicians, production employees for chemicals or plant operators - thanks to a huge network and a wealth of experience in international recruitment, we supply exactly the skilled workers that are needed in chemical production.

We also help with the recruitment of additional production specialists, for example in the areas of metal and plastics processing, mechanical engineering and electrical engineering.

Zeitarbeit International takes over the entire recruitment process - from selecting suitable candidates to coordinating visas and recognition procedures and organizing language courses and integration measures. This enables companies to meet their personnel requirements despite a shortage of skilled workers and to rely on qualified, committed specialists in order to maintain their production and remain successful in the long term.

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FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the shortage of skilled workers in the chemical industry

1. Why is there a shortage of skilled workers in the chemical industry?
   Demographic change and the low interest of young people in chemical professions are leading to a shortage of qualified specialists, particularly in specialized production roles.
2. Can foreign specialists fill the gap?
   Absolutely! Talents from countries such as India and Slovakia bring the necessary know-how. Many companies rely on integration tools such as language courses and training to bring international specialists into the team smoothly.
3. What measures is the government taking?
   With the Skilled Worker Immigration Act and special support programs, the government is ensuring that foreign skilled workers have easier access - from visas to the recognition of qualifications.
4. Which professions are particularly affected?
   Roles such as chemical production specialist and chemical technician are severely affected because they require specialised knowledge that is hard to find on the job market.