For young people looking for their first job in Germany, the choice has narrowed considerably in recent years.

Finishing school or university does not mean they will easily find an employer willing to give them their first opportunity.

According to an analysis by the Indeed portal, published on 23 September 2026, the number of entry-level job postings on that platform fell by more than 66% from July 2022 to July 2026. The overall job supply also declined, but noticeably less, by just over one third.

The biggest decline in the IT sector and marketing

A comparison of the first half of 2022 and 2026 shows a decline in entry-level postings in 26 of the 28 observed occupational groups. In the field of IT applications and solutions, the supply decreased by 77%, in marketing by 75%, and in project management by 60%. These are jobs intended for people at the beginning of their careers, for example those advertised as 'junior' positions. A beginner may have the appropriate education, but still needs to gain work experience.

Healthcare and hospitality are moving in the opposite direction

Growth was recorded in only 2 groups. There were 18% more entry-level postings in care, medicine, and pharmacy, and 10% more in the food sector, hospitality, and hotel industry. However, this does not mean that all these jobs can be obtained without the necessary education. Among the sought-after professions are also trained cooks, physiotherapists, and skilled care workers, whose first job comes after completing their education.

Saving today, fewer experienced workers tomorrow

Indeed economist Virginia Sondergeld sees the main reason in the weak economy; in uncertain times, companies first reduce investment in beginners.

The impact of artificial intelligence has not yet been proven, and the decline in postings began before the appearance of ChatGPT. Sondergeld warns that unemployment at the beginning of a career can leave a long-lasting mark, including lower future wages. Such cost-cutting therefore also raises a question for employers: who will gain the experience for future skilled positions if today fewer and fewer people are getting opportunities to start?