Recommendation – Lidl

Why Consider Working at Lidl?

If you need to enter the job market quickly and want a solid company, Lidl stands out with a combination of good wages, contract stability, and reliable benefits. Here's a summary of the company's main advantages:

• Usually permanent contracts (unbeknownst), offering immediate job security
• 13th salary and vacation allowance as per local collective agreements
• 6 weeks of vacation per year, above the retail industry average
• Employer-funded pension, with automatic contributions after six months
• Loyalty bonuses (jubilee) and sabbatical leave available after five years
• Clear career paths in stores, logistics, and corporate departments
• Nationwide vacancies in a variety of contract types
• Full health and mental health support, including online psychological counseling
• Hybrid work options for administrative and corporate positions

These benefits apply both to those seeking long-term careers and those looking for immediate job placement with strong support.

Who Are the Ideal Candidates for Lidl?

Thanks to its flexible hiring formats, Lidl is accessible to a wide range of profiles. Here are the types of candidates who benefit most:

People seeking fast reemployment:
If you're currently unemployed and need to resume income urgently, Lidl offers simple application steps, permanent contracts, and competitive pay from the first month.

Students and young professionals:
With part-time, temporary, and training programs (Ausbildung, Duales Studium, Werkstudent), students have a real chance to gain experience and earn at the same time.

Career changers:
Those looking to switch fields can find a secure entry path through the Quereinstieg model, which accepts candidates with little to no prior experience in the desired role.

Established foreign workers in Germany:
Lidl is known for integrating immigrants into both operational and administrative teams, as long as legal requirements are met.

People planning to relocate:
Lidl provides financial support for relocation or maintaining two residences when the job requires it, making it easier to start fresh in a new city.

Qualified professionals seeking stability:
In corporate areas like IT, HR, marketing, and procurement, Lidl offers stable contracts, hybrid work options, and medium- to long-term career development.

What Day-to-Day Looks Like in Common Lidl Roles

Understanding the daily routine of each position helps in choosing the right job. Here are practical descriptions of some popular Lidl roles:

Store Assistant (Verkäufer):
Your day starts with organizing the store, restocking shelves, and checking prices. the shift, you'll rotate between customer service, operating the register, and throughout supporting product replenishment. It's a dynamic environment, perfect for those who enjoy being active and interacting with people. No previous experience is required, and training is provided.

Order Picker (Kommissionierer):
At distribution centers, you'll receive electronic orders and select items based on store demand. The job requires attention to detail, physical stamina, and good pace. It may include shift work but offers pay attractive and solid infrastructure.

Assistant Store Manager (Stellvertretender Filialleiter):
In addition to daily operations, this role involves leadership. You'll support the team, help with shift planning, manage inventory, and assist with opening and closing the store. Ideal for those aiming for growth and more responsibility.

University Intern (Werkstudent):
In corporate roles, students work part-time (typically 15–20 hours/week) alongside their studies. Departments include IT, marketing, procurement, and HR. Lidl values performance and often offers permanent positions after graduation.

What Lidl Offers That Other Companies Usually Don't

Many of Lidl's benefits go beyond what is typically seen in the retail or logistics sector. Here are some standout advantages:

Paid sabbatical:
Employees with five years at the company can request a sabbatical of up to three months, keeping their employment relationship intact.

Automatic company pension:
After six months in a tariff-based contract, Lidl begins contributing annually to a private pension plan for the employee.

Financial support for relocation or second residence:
Employees who need to move to another city or maintain two homes due to the job receive financial assistance.

Preventive health and wellness services:
Besides flu vaccinations and workplace ergonomics, Lidl offers anonymous psychological counseling via the Instahelp platform, wellness programs, and family support through benefitsatwork.

Flexible hybrid work:
In administrative and corporate sectors, employees can work from home up to five days a week, depending on the role and location.

Efficient internal communication system:
Lidl uses its own app to keep staff informed and connected, strengthening internal culture and transparency.

These resources make for a well-structured employee experience — ideal for those seeking not just a job, but a healthy work environment.

Guidelines for Foreigners Who Want to Apply to Lidl

If you're a foreign national legally residing in Germany, Lidl can be an excellent gateway into the local job market. Here are some key points to consider:

Legal status and work permits:
You need a valid work visa (like an Aufenthaltstitel with work authorization) or be in the process of legalizing your status. All documents must be valid at the time of hiring.

German language proficiency:
While not mandatory for all roles, having at least a basic or intermediate level (A2–B1) is a strong advantage — especially for customer-facing positions.
In administrative jobs, English may be accepted, but German still offers a clear edge.

Recognition of diplomas and qualifications:
For technical or corporate roles, recognized diplomas may be required. There are specific processes in Germany to validate foreign degrees, depending on the profession and location.

Foreign students:
If you're enrolled in a German university, you can apply for Werkstudent or internship roles, following the legal limits on weekly work hours.

Multicultural environment:
Lidl operates in over 30 countries and has diverse teams. Integration of international workers is common, especially in larger cities and areas with high labor demand.