In Germany, **Bauwerksabdichter/in** (building sealers/waterproofers) are a critical professional group that extends the lifespan and ensures the durability of buildings and various structures by protecting them against air, soil moisture, infiltration, and groundwater. These professionals waterproof the interior and exterior surfaces of buildings, roofs, terraces, and even transportation routes like bridges and tunnels using special techniques. They also contribute to environmental protection by working on the sealing of storage areas (landfills). In their work, they apply insulation materials, evaluate surfaces, and control the quality of sealing work using various special equipment such as gas burners, bitumen melting kettles, welding machines, and testing devices.
**Bauwerksabdichter/in** typically work on construction sites, in foundation pits, on unfinished structures, roofs, or traffic routes; in some cases, they may also work underground, such as in subway shafts. To pursue this profession in Germany, you must complete a 3-year dual vocational training program called "Ausbildung," which includes practical training in a company and theoretical lessons at a vocational school. Although no specific school-leaving certificate is legally required, in practice, the vast majority of candidates hold a Hauptschulabschluss (secondary school leaving certificate) or an equivalent qualification. Candidates are expected to have attention to detail, observational skills, manual dexterity, suitability for working at heights, and good physical condition.
For Turkish students or professionals who wish to become a **Bauwerksabdichter/in** in Germany, German language proficiency and the recognition (denklik) of relevant professional experience or diplomas from Turkey in Germany are important steps. The continuous demand in the construction sector increases the potential for finding employment in this field.
What is Bauwerksabdichter/Bauwerksabdichterin?
Programs that lead to this profession
Arts & Design field →The profession Bauwerksabdichter/Bauwerksabdichterin in Germany is generally reached through programs in the Arts & Design field:
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Master · Hochschule für Musik Freiburg
– Elemental Music Pedagogy
Master · Hochschule für Musik Freiburg
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Bachelor · Hochschule für Musik Würzburg
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Detailed Information
▶ Places of Learning
Building waterproofers are trained in the dual system. Learning locations are the training company (usually construction companies): company yards, construction sites, and the vocational school (Berufsschule): classrooms. If companies cannot provide all required training content, parts of the training can be moved to inter-company training centers (überbetriebliche Ausbildungsstätten). Note: Vocational school instruction is partly conducted in cross-state specialized classes (länderübergreifenden Fachklassen). Currently, for the states of Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Berlin, Brandenburg, Hamburg, Hesse, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia, it is located in Nuremberg (Bavaria): City of Nuremberg Vocational School Directorate 11. Source: Overview of cross-state specialized classes (Status: March 27, 2025).
▶ Profile
Occupation type: Recognized apprenticeship (Ausbildung) occupation. Type of training: Dual training in industry and trade as well as in crafts (regulated by training regulations). Training duration: 3 years. Learning locations: Training company and vocational school (Berufsschule) (dual training). What does one do in this profession? Building waterproofers protect structures from air and soil moisture, seepage, and groundwater using various methods. They seal surfaces on and in buildings, roofs and terraces, as well as areas for traffic, e.g., in bridge and tunnel construction. They also carry out sealing measures when constructing landfills. They evaluate the surfaces to be sealed and produce protective layers and coverings. For example, they install insulation materials using gas burners, bitumen melting pots, welding machines, and pull-off testers, and check the waterproofing work for suitability and quality. Where does one work? Employers: Building waterproofers find employment in companies in the construction or finishing industry.
▶ Occupation Update
Job title: Bauwerksabdichter/in (Building Waterproofer). Occupation type: Recognized apprenticeship (Ausbildung) occupation. Training duration: 3 years. What does one do in this profession? Building waterproofers protect structures from air and soil moisture, seepage, and groundwater using various methods. They seal surfaces on and in buildings, roofs and terraces, as well as areas for traffic, e.g., in bridge and tunnel construction. They also carry out sealing measures when constructing landfills. They evaluate the surfaces to be sealed and produce protective layers and coverings. For example, they install insulation materials using gas burners, bitumen melting pots, welding machines, and pull-off testers, and check the waterproofing work for suitability and quality. Where does one work? Building waterproofers find employment in companies in the construction or finishing industry, e.g., in specialized companies for waterproofing technology, flat roof insulation, building protection or renovation, floor, tile, and slab laying, and in road and bridge construction.
▶ Training Duration
3 years.
▶ Training Structure
The training is carried out simultaneously in the training company and in the vocational school (Berufsschule). Vocational school instruction takes place on specific weekdays or in block form. Excerpt from the training framework plan and the framework curriculum: 1st and 2nd year of training: Training in the company and, if necessary, in inter-company courses (überbetrieblichen Lehrgängen): Setting up and checking working and protective scaffolding, checking construction pits and trenches. Reading and preparing sketches, drawings, and laying plans, carrying out measurements. Checking construction and auxiliary materials by type and quantity, storing and transporting. Providing construction and auxiliary materials, tools, and construction equipment, commissioning and maintaining. Carrying out carpentry work as well as masonry, plastering, concrete, and chiseling work. Processing sealing and insulation materials. Preparing waterproofing work on the construction site. Sealing against soil moisture, against non-pressing and pressing water. Sealing roofs. Training in vocational school (Berufsschule) classes.
▶ Training Costs
No costs are charged for carrying out the training. The training company provides the training materials required for the company part of the training and pays the examination fees. Unless otherwise regulated, apprentices must bear the costs of learning materials for vocational school (Berufsschule) instruction and for work clothing themselves. In addition, costs may arise if training centers are far from the place of residence. Funding opportunities: In certain life situations, apprentices can receive vocational training assistance (Berufsausbildungsbeihilfe). Further information: Vocational Training Assistance (BAB).
▶ Training Content
During the vocational training (Ausbildung), apprentices learn, for example, how to test and prepare construction and auxiliary materials. They also learn how to perform wood, masonry, plastering, concrete, and chiseling work. They gain skills in planning work processes and in using and creating work documents. They learn to define and create joint connections by swell welding, hot gas welding, hot wedge welding, or gluing. They learn how to prepare sealing work on construction sites and how to seal the site against soil moisture and pressurized or non-pressurized water. They learn how to create roof seals and how to create expansion joints using reinforcements and joint flange constructions. They also learn how to seal traffic areas, especially bridge decks. They are taught how to prepare construction reports and measurement sketches, and how to perform quality controls. Furthermore, throughout the training, knowledge on topics such as rights and duties during training, organization of the training company, and environmental protection is imparted. They also receive instruction at the vocational school (Berufsschule).
▶ Training Situation
One should be prepared for the following conditions and requirements: In the company (Betrieb), practical work (under guidance) is performed, such as gluing and welding bitumen and plastic membranes, applying fillers, and creating expansion joints. The environment involves changing construction sites, sometimes outdoors in varying weather conditions, with construction dust and chemicals. Protective clothing (e.g., work gloves, safety shoes, hard hat) is worn. Working hours may involve longer periods away from home and shift work on large construction sites. Requirements include diligence (e.g., when checking constructions to secure against pressurized water), observational accuracy (e.g., recognizing cracks and irregularities in building substrates and bitumen membranes), manual dexterity (e.g., when assembling domes and gutters), freedom from vertigo (e.g., when working on scaffolding and work platforms), and good physical constitution (e.g., when working outdoors or carrying heavy building components). Instruction is provided at the vocational school (Berufsschule).
▶ Vocational Training Abroad
Apprentices can complete parts of their vocational training (Ausbildung) abroad. For example, they can undertake an internship abroad in various European countries as part of the additional qualification 'Europaassistent/in'. The duration is at least 3 weeks, and a secondary school leaving certificate (mittlerer Bildungsabschluss) is a prerequisite. Further information on the additional qualification 'Europaassistent/in' is available.
▶ Training Pay
The training allowance for a dual vocational training (duale Ausbildung) is paid by the training company (Ausbildungsbetrieb) and, for companies bound by collective agreements, is based on those agreements. Apprentices must be granted an appropriate remuneration. If the training takes place in a school-based form (e.g., at a vocational school or in the 1st year of training as a vocational basic training year BGJ), no training allowance is paid. For example, in the construction industry in the new Bundesländer (federal states) - excluding Berlin (monthly gross): 1st year of training: 1,122 €, 2nd year of training: 1,351 €, 3rd year of training: 1,610 €. Example for the construction industry in the old Bundesländer - excluding Berlin (monthly gross): 1st year of training: 1,122 €, 2nd year of training: 1,351 €, 3rd year of training: 1,610 €. Example for the construction industry in Berlin (monthly gross): 1st year of training: 1,122 €, 2nd year of training: 1,351 €, 3rd year of training: 1,610 €. Sources: Collective bargaining information from the federal government and the Bundesländer (e.g., Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, WSI-Tarifarchiv, collective bargaining archives of the Bundesländer).
▶ Important School Subjects
In-depth knowledge in the following school subjects is a good prerequisite for successful vocational training (Ausbildung): Mathematics: e.g., to calculate area divisions and material requirements. Crafts/Technology (Werken/Technik): e.g., to process sealing materials. Chemistry: e.g., to check the temperature and moisture of sealing substrates. Physics: e.g., to create expansion joints and auxiliary constructions for wall connections.
▶ Additional Qualifications
The additional qualification 'Europaassistent/in' is aimed at apprentices with at least a secondary school leaving certificate (mittlerer Bildungsabschluss). It expands the initial vocational training (Erstausbildung) with intercultural competencies and offers apprentices the opportunity to improve their foreign language skills. For this, apprentices attend additional vocational school (Berufsschule) classes, e.g., in European Commercial and Economic Law, and complete a several-week internship abroad. The responsible chamber (Kammer) provides further information, e.g.: Europaassistent/in.
▶ Training Alternatives
The following Ausbildung (vocational training) alternatives are available for the profession of Bauwerksabdichter/in: Building Interior and Renovation Sector: Asphalt layer, Timber and Building Protector (Specializing in Building Protection), Roofer. Commonality: Performing sealing and building protection work.
▶ Development of the Training
1940: Recognition of the profession Klebeabdichter/in (adhesive sealer) (2-year Ausbildung). 1997: The Ausbildung regulation for the profession Bauwerksabdichter/in under the Berufsbildungsgesetz (Vocational Training Act) comes into force, and the predecessor profession Klebeabdichter/in is abolished. 2020: Amendments to the Berufsbildungsgesetz (BBiG) and the Handwerksordnung (HWO): introduction of a minimum Ausbildung remuneration; expansion of the possibility to complete Ausbildungen in Teilzeit (part-time). 2024: Entry into force of the Berufsbildungsvalidierungs- und -digitalisierungsgesetz with adjustments to the Berufsbildungsgesetz (BBiG) and the Handwerksordnung (HWO): including the legal anchoring of the possibility of digital mobile training; introduction of an assessment and certification procedure (professional validation) of individual professional competence based on the standard of a recognized Ausbildung profession, regardless of a formal vocational training qualification.
▶ The Training at a Glance
Bauwerksabdichter/in is a 3-year recognized Ausbildung profession in industry and trade. The Ausbildung also takes place in the Handwerk (crafts) sector.
▶ Qualification / Job Titles
Qualification Title: Bauwerksabdichter/Bauwerksabdichterin.
▶ Prospects After Training
Improve Opportunities with Additional Qualifications: Future Bauwerksabdichter/in's can gain a good starting position by acquiring additional qualifications during their Ausbildung, for example, in the field of European Goods and Commercial Law through the additional qualification 'Europaassistent/in'. Finding the Right Employment: After their Ausbildung, Bauwerksabdichter/in's work in specialized companies for sealing technology or flat roof insulation, as well as in bridge and tunnel construction. Securing Employability: Through Anpassungsweiterbildung (adaptive further training), one can keep their specialized knowledge current, up-to-date, and expand it. The range of topics extends from building sealing to plastering work. Career Advancement: Aufstiegsweiterbildung (advanced further training) helps to advance professionally and achieve leadership positions. It is logical to take the examination as an Industriemeister/in (Industrial Master) in the field of insulation. With a Hochschulzugangsberechtigung (university entrance qualification), one can also pursue higher education.
▶ Prior Schooling in Practice
In 2024, there were 15 Ausbildung starters in the Handwerk (crafts) sector. 40 percent had a Hauptschulabschluss (secondary school certificate), 20 percent had no Hauptschulabschluss, and 20 percent had a mittlerer Bildungsabschluss (intermediate school leaving certificate). Ausbildung Starters 2024 (in %): without Hauptschulabschluss* [20.0%], Hauptschulabschluss* [40.0%], mittlerer Bildungsabschluss [20.0%], Other [20.0%]. *Depending on the Bundesland (federal state), also referred to as (Einfache) Berufsbildungsreife, Berufsreife, Erfolgreicher Abschluss der Mittelschule, Erster (allgemeinbildender) Schulabschluss. In the Industry and Trade Ausbildung sector, there were 15 Ausbildung starters. 40 percent had a Hauptschulabschluss. 20 percent of the Ausbildung starters had completed a Berufsvorbereitungsjahr (vocational preparatory year) before starting their Ausbildung. Ausbildung Starters 2024 (in %): Hauptschulabschluss* [40.0%], Other.
▶ Legal Regulations for the Training
There are legal regulations and recommendations for the Ausbildung (vocational training) of Bauwerksabdichter/Bauwerksabdichterin. These include the ordinance on vocational training for Bauwerksabdichter/Bauwerksabdichterin from April 24, 1997 (BGBl. I S.946) and the framework curriculum for the vocational training occupation Bauwerksabdichter/in (resolution of the Conference of Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs from March 14, 1997).
▶ Entry Requirements for the Training
Legally, no specific prior education is required for this Ausbildung (vocational training).
Source: BERUFENET · Bundesagentur für Arbeit
Frequently Asked Questions about Bauwerksabdichter/Bauwerksabdichterin
Education path, salary, recognition, and entry routes for foreigners
What does a Bauwerksabdichter/Bauwerksabdichterin do in Germany? ▼
In Germany, Bauwerksabdichter/in (building sealers/waterproofers) are a critical professional group that extends the lifespan and ensures the durability of buildings and various structures by protecting them against air, soil moisture, infiltration, and groundwater. These professionals waterproof the interior and exterior surfaces of buildings, roofs, terraces, and even transportation routes like bridges and tunnels using special techniques. They also contribute to environmental protection by working on the sealing of storage areas (landfills). In their work, they apply insulation materials, evaluate surfaces, and control the quality of sealing work using various special equipment such as gas burners, bitumen melting kettles, welding machines, and testing devices.
Bauwerksabdichter/in typically work on construction sites, in foundation pits, on unfinished structures, roofs, or traffic routes; in some cases, they may also work underground, such as in subway shafts. To pursue this profession in Germany, you must complete a 3-year dual vocational training program called "Ausbildung," which includes practical training in a company and theoretical lessons at a vocational school. Although no specific school-leaving certificate is legally required, in practice, the vast majority of candidates hold a Hauptschulabschluss (secondary school leaving certificate) or an equivalent qualification. Candidates are expected to have attention to detail, observational skills, manual dexterity, suitability for working at heights, and good physical condition.
For Turkish students or professionals who wish to become a Bauwerksabdichter/in in Germany, German language proficiency and the recognition (denklik) of relevant professional experience or diplomas from Turkey in Germany are important steps. The continuous demand in the construction sector increases the potential for finding employment in this field.
Is Bauwerksabdichter/Bauwerksabdichterin an Ausbildung or a degree path? ▼
In Germany, "Bauwerksabdichter/Bauwerksabdichterin" follows a 3-year dual Ausbildung — combining a vocational school (Berufsschule) with paid on-the-job training at a company. No university degree required.
How can I qualify as Bauwerksabdichter/Bauwerksabdichterin in Germany? ▼
In Germany, "Bauwerksabdichter/Bauwerksabdichterin" follows a 3-year dual Ausbildung — combining a vocational school (Berufsschule) with paid on-the-job training at a company. No university degree required. Foreign applicants should additionally verify diploma recognition via anabin.kmk.org before applying.
Where do Bauwerksabdichter/Bauwerksabdichterin typically work in Germany? ▼
Workplace varies by employer. Check the official BERUFENET listing for the current breakdown of typical work environments for Bauwerksabdichter/Bauwerksabdichterin.
What is the typical salary for Bauwerksabdichter/Bauwerksabdichterin in Germany? ▼
Salaries vary by region, employer size, and experience. Consult BERUFENET for current figures, or salary aggregators like gehalt.de and stepstone.de Gehaltsreport.