How much does a craftsman earn?
Craftsmen and craftswomen manufacture, assemble, maintain and repair – from construction and finishing to metal, electrical, wood, plumbing and other trades. Gross pay depends on trade, region, collective agreements, employer and experience. As a guide, qualified craftsmen in Germany in 2026 often earn about €3,100–€3,700 gross per month; during apprenticeship around €960–€1,280 is typical.
Salary by region (gross/month)
Guide figures as of 2026. Actual pay depends on trade, collective agreements, employer, region, experience and order situation and is not a guarantee.
Further training options
Job and everyday work
A craftsman works – depending on the trade – in a workshop, company or on site: planning and carrying out orders, processing materials, assembling, maintaining and repairing. Everyday work includes teamwork, occupational safety and coordination with customers, site management and related trades.
- Carry out orders to plan, drawing or customer request – from fabrication and assembly to maintenance and repair.
- Operate, check and maintain tools, machines and measuring equipment; take measurements and meet quality standards.
- Follow occupational safety rules, wear PPE and report hazards on site or in the workshop.
- Coordinate with customers, site managers and other trades; document material needs and progress.
- Identify faults and disruptions, narrow down causes and fix or report them properly.
- Depending on the trade: workshop, installation or outdoor work; deadlines, weather and teamwork are typical.
