Thuringia defies crisis: photonics industry will create new jobs in 2050!

Thuringia defies crisis: photonics industry will create new jobs in 2050!

This is evident at a time when the economic situation in Germany is tense, especially for medium-sized companies Photonics industry in Thuringia as a ray of hope. Despite a dampening mood and challenges such as a lack of orders, high costs and bureaucracy, the industry has announced that it will create a total of 2,050 new jobs by the end of 2026.

Of these new positions, 500 will be filled through retirement, while the remaining positions will be created. There are currently around 650 open positions, primarily in the areas of research, manufacturing, electronics and IT. Recruiting engineers is particularly difficult, while the applicant situation for commercial professions looks encouraging.

Strong focus on research and innovation

The photonics industry remains optimistic despite the difficult economic conditions. Companies in Thuringia are investing heavily in research and development, with spending expected to reach a record 600 million euros in 2024. The industry generates around four billion euros annually, especially in the economic centers of Jena and the Saale-Holzland district. Loud der-markt.net The majority of job offers currently focus on positions such as service engineers, development engineers and commissioning technicians.

But the focus is not just on creating new jobs. The companies are also looking for specialists for specific requirements, for example in the area of ​​crystalline materials at IV IR OPTICS GmbH in Eisenach. There are also numerous opportunities for temporary jobs or internships, for example in marketing at the Jena location.

International connections and export opportunities

The close connection to research and the flexibility of the companies in the OptoNet industry network contribute to the resilience and independence of the photonics industry. Anke Siegmeier and Nora Kirsten lead this network in Jena, which promotes synergies between companies and supports exchange on topics such as IT and quality management. Over 130 companies and partners will present their products and services at the upcoming W3+ trade fair in Jena, which will take place on November 29th and 30th, 2023. An accompanying conference is also planned.

In 2022, 72% of Thuringian photonics companies' sales will come from the international market. Western Europe, North America and China are the most important export markets, with the greatest growth potential in the USA. In addition, the network is committed to increasing market development and welcomes the immigration of skilled workers in order to counteract the shortage of skilled workers.

The challenges cannot be overlooked: two thirds of the companies surveyed see the shortage of skilled workers as a serious threat to future growth. Nevertheless, the photonics industry in Thuringia remains an important innovation location that offers exciting prospects despite the global economic uncertainties.

With a clear focus on research, international collaboration and the creation of new jobs, the photonics industry in Thuringia shows that it is ready to meet the challenges of the time and set the course for a positive future. This sector therefore remains a point of contact for job seekers and young talents to watch.