Hochschule Niederrhein (HSN), also known as Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences, stands as one of Germany's largest universities of applied sciences. Located primarily in Mönchengladbach and Krefeld in Nordrhein-Westfalen, it serves over 34,000 students across practical-oriented programs. Jobs at Hochschule Niederrhein attract professionals passionate about applied research and teaching, blending academia with industry needs. Whether you're eyeing faculty positions, research roles, or administrative jobs, HSN offers a dynamic environment in Europe's heart.
The university emphasizes hands-on education, making it ideal for careers in engineering, design, and business. With strong ties to regional industries like textiles and chemicals, positions often involve collaborative projects that impact real-world applications.
Founded in 1971 through the merger of several engineering and textile schools, Hochschule Niederrhein has grown into a powerhouse for applied sciences. Its roots trace back to 19th-century institutions focused on textile technology in Mönchengladbach, a hub for Germany's textile sector. Today, HSN comprises 11 faculties, offering over 100 bachelor's and master's programs. The dual-campus setup—textile-focused Mönchengladbach and engineering-centric Krefeld—provides diverse job locations.
HSN's motto, "Practice. Future. Together," reflects its commitment to dual studies (duales Studium), where students alternate between university and company work. This model produces graduates ready for jobs at Hochschule Niederrhein or partner firms, fostering a talent pipeline.
Careers at the university span academic, research, and support roles. Professorships (Professuren) are core, divided into W1 (junior), W2, and W3 levels. Research assistants (Wissenschaftliche Mitarbeiter) support projects, often part-time for students (HiWi positions). Administrative jobs include HR, IT, and student services. For a full list, explore university job types.
Jobs at Hochschule Niederrhein prioritize practical expertise, distinguishing it from research universities.
To understand jobs at Hochschule Niederrhein, key terms include:
Jobs at Hochschule Niederrhein demand specific credentials. For professorships, a PhD (Doktorgrad) in a relevant field is essential, plus 5+ years of professional practice outside academia. Research focus aligns with faculties like Food, Nutrition, and Hospitality (Mönchengladbach) or Electrical Engineering (Krefeld).
Preferred experience includes publications in peer-reviewed journals, successful grant applications (e.g., from EU Horizon or BMBF), and industry collaborations. Skills and competencies cover:
Research assistants need a master's degree; professors benefit from international experience. Learn more via how to write a winning academic CV.
Applying for jobs at Hochschule Niederrhein involves a structured process. Vacancies are posted on the university's career portal (karriere.hs-niederrhein.de) and platforms like AcademicJobs.com. Submit a single PDF with cover letter, CV, diplomas, list of publications/teaching, and research/teaching statement.
Tips for success:
For lecturer roles, see become a university lecturer. Use our free resume template.
HSN actively promotes diversity. The Gleichstellungsbeauftragte office supports women in leadership, with targets for female professors (currently ~25%). Initiatives include mentoring for underrepresented groups and compatibility projects for parents. The International Office aids non-EU staff with visas. HSN's charter for diversity signed in 2018 commits to anti-discrimination. Specific examples: Women in STEM networks and accessibility audits for disabled employees. Accessibility features on campuses enhance inclusion.
Work-life balance at Hochschule Niederrhein is supported by 30-39 vacation days, flexible hours (Gleitzeit), and telework options. Family services include campus daycare and parental leave policies aligning with German standards. Mönchengladbach offers affordable living, green spaces, and quick access to Cologne/Düsseldorf via excellent rail (ICE trains). Krefeld campus features modern labs and sports facilities.
Campus life buzzes with events, canteens, libraries open late, and student unions. Faculty enjoy subsidized gym access and cultural perks. Nordrhein-Westfalen's vibrant region blends urban excitement with Rhine countryside, ideal for families.
Advancement includes junior professor tracks to full W3. Benefits: TV-L/TV-Ü public sector pay (secure pensions), health insurance, research funding access. HSN supports sabbaticals and conferences. Salaries: Research assistants ~€2,500-€4,000 gross; professors €6,000+ net.
Compare via university salaries. For research paths, check research assistant advice (adaptable principles).
HSN combines academic freedom with practical impact, in a supportive environment. Proximity to industry giants like Träger (textiles) offers collaborations. International outlook with 10% international students suits global careers.
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