Choosing a Career in Austria: How to Find a Future-Proof Profession

Choosing a profession is one of the most important decisions you can make, as it can shape your future for many years. In Austria, numerous free tools, tests and counselling services can help you make an informed decision instead of choosing blindly.

Who is subject to the training obligation?

In Austria, learning does not necessarily end after the nine-year compulsory education period (Schulpflicht). Since the 2016 Training Obligation Act (Ausbildungspflichtgesetz), every young person under the age of 18 who has completed compulsory education and lives permanently in Austria must continue in education or training.

The obligation lasts until the person turns 18 or successfully completes a qualifying follow-up programme. Failure to comply can ultimately lead to an administrative fine (Verwaltungsstrafe), just as with a breach of compulsory education requirements.

After compulsory education, many young people begin vocational training (Lehre) or continue their education at school. The Austrian education system offers several possible routes, including Lehre, Kolleg, university of applied sciences and university.

How should you approach the decision?

Four steps can make the decision easier:

1. Clarify your goals: Do you want to complete a Lehre, obtain the school-leaving qualification (Matura) or attend university? Do you want to start earning quickly, or can you take more time? Would you prefer working in a team or independently? Would you rather work in an office, a shop or without a fixed workplace? Would working abroad be an option? How important are salary and working hours?
2. Collect ideas: Consider which professions match your interests and which education or training routes lead to them.
3. Gather information: Research the professions you are considering and find out who can support you.
4. Make a decision: Base your choice on the facts you have collected.

Facts are important, but your feelings also matter. Choosing work that gives you genuine satisfaction can support long-term motivation and success.

What makes a profession future-proof?

Digitalisation is rapidly changing the labour market. An ageing population, migration and climate change also influence employment opportunities. A profession that is in demand today may change or disappear in a few years, while new opportunities may emerge.

New professions are created particularly as a result of technological change, for example in information technology (IT) and related fields. Their names are often in English, such as Java Developer, because English is also used as the working language and international companies want job advertisements to be understood across different countries.

Existing professions can also receive new names or develop new responsibilities:

• Einkäufer/in (purchasing officer) may be called Merchandise Planner.
• Hausbesorger/in (caretaker) may be called Facility Manager.

Despite this uncertainty, completing a training programme remains the most secure foundation for a professional future. German-language skills are also essential.

Free online career tools

• Berufslexikon (AMS): approximately 1.800 professions, training routes, requirements and career opportunities.
• BerufsInfoSystem, BIS (AMS): approximately 19.000 profession names and approximately 23.000 competencies.
• Berufskompass (AMS): an online career-orientation test that creates an interest profile.
• Interessensprofil (BIC): assessment of 66 statements and suggestions for professional fields.
• Studiversum (BMB): tips for choosing a university subject.
• whatchado: inspiration and an overview of different professions.

Some regional websites also offer tests. Examples include the Wirtschaftskammer Niederösterreich platform Lehre? Respekt! and an interest test provided by the Upper Austrian Chamber of Labour (Arbeiterkammer).

Where can you get personal advice?

• AMS career information centres (BerufsInfoZentren, BIZ): personal counselling, as well as computer-based and printed information on site.
• Economic chambers (WKO) and WIFI: counselling, coaching, psychological tests and workshops. If you are still unsure, you can also request a potential analysis (Potenzialanalyse).
• School Psychological Educational Counselling (Schulpsychologische Bildungsberatung): career-orientation and learning advice.
• School student counsellors (Schülerberater): advice directly at school.
• ÖH: support with questions about university studies.
• EURES (AMS): advice if you would like to work in other EEA countries.

Practical experience can also be valuable. A summer work placement (Ferialpraktikum) and trial apprenticeship days (Schnupperlehre, officially berufspraktische Tage) allow you to get to know a profession as part of a class or individually.

What is Jugendcoaching?

Youth coaching (Jugendcoaching) supports young people at the transition between school, training and work. It can help with career orientation, choosing a suitable Lehre and personal difficulties.

The service is primarily aimed at young people covered by the training obligation. It is also available to young people with disabilities or those facing several challenges.

During coaching, an interest and aptitude profile is prepared, strengths and weaknesses are analysed, and an individual career and development plan is created. The service is voluntary and free of charge.

Frequently asked questions

Do young people in Austria have to attend school until they are 18?

Not necessarily school. After compulsory education, young people must participate in some form of education or training until the age of 18. A Lehre also fulfils this requirement.

How much does Jugendcoaching cost?

Nothing. The service is voluntary and free of charge.

When is the BeST career guidance fair held?

The BeST fair takes place every year in spring and autumn, at different locations. It also provides information about the latest professional trends.

Does it matter whether I am a girl or a boy?

No. Knowledge and ability are not determined by gender. The Girls’ Day and Boys’ Day programmes also promote this idea.

Practical steps for choosing a profession

1. Write down your interests, strengths, preferred working environment and priorities.
2. Compare possible routes, including Lehre, Kolleg, university of applied sciences and university.
3. Use the Berufslexikon, BerufsInfoSystem, Berufskompass or Interessensprofil to explore suitable options.
4. Arrange an appointment with an AMS BerufsInfoZentrum, WKO, WIFI, school counsellor or Jugendcoaching service.
5. Gain practical experience through a Ferialpraktikum or Schnupperlehre.
6. Compare the information you receive and choose a completed education or training route that fits your abilities and goals.