FAQ – job applications

Can I apply to the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft online?

You can apply online for any job opportunity that contains the »Apply« button. All other opportunities will have a postal or e-mail address to which you can send your application documents.

Which documents should I have to hand when making an online application?

Please provide us with a full set of application documents. They should include: your letter of application, your curriculum vitae and, most importantly, your examination certificates and references from employers.

Will my application be kept confidential?

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft abides by the provisions of the German federal data protection act (Bundesdatenschutzgesetz). Please refer to our privacy policy statement for more details. You will see this statement as you go through the online application process. If you apply to us by e-mail or post, we will send you a copy of our privacy policy statement along with the confirmation of receipt.

How long will my application data be stored at the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft?

We will store your data for a maximum of six months following completion of the recruitment process. After that, we will make your data anonymous and keep it purely for statistical evaluation purposes. You can withdraw your application at any time and delete your profile from the Fraunhofer job portal. Please refer to our privacy policy statement. In making your application, you are declaring your consent to the conditions of this policy.

How and where can I apply on my own initiative?

If you have not found a position that suits you among our current job offers, please feel free to send us a speculative application. You can apply to the headquarters of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft or to the individual Fraunhofer Institutes. Are you seeking a position in your area of research or at a particular location? If you wish to apply to one of the Fraunhofer Institutes on your own initiative, we would ask you to contact the institute concerned directly. Please send your complete set of application documents to the institute that appeals to you. If you are interested in several institutes, please make a separate application to each institute.

What does TVöD mean?

TVöD is the German collective bargaining agreement for the public service. The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft acts in compliance with the regulations set out in this agreement with regard to employment, remuneration and social security benefits. You can find out about this collective bargaining agreement for the public service and the respective pay schedules here.

Which application method does Fraunhofer prefer?

Unless stated otherwise in the job advertisement, we prefer online applications.

Can I find out about a position beforehand by phone?

We will be pleased to answer your questions on the advertised position. Please contact the person named in the advertisement directly.

When can I expect to receive a response to my application? Will I receive a confirmation of receipt?

We regret we are unable to give a general time frame, as the processing of applications depends on several factors. If you apply online, you will receive a confirmation of receipt automatically. If you apply to us by post or e-mail, we will send you a confirmation as soon as we have recorded your application.

Who can I contact if I have questions about the status of my application?

Please contact the person named in the confirmation of receipt.