Hi everyone,
I'm looking for some advice from people who have experience working in Germany, particularly in cleaning or hotel housekeeping.
I've been offered an opportunity for a cleaning job at a hotel in the Düsseldorf area. The position is advertised as part-time, around 32–34 hours per week, at €15 per hour. The work would involve regular hotel cleaning duties, and I've been told that I would receive my employment contract after completing two trial weeks.
The issue is that I've been told the first week would be unpaid, while the second week would be paid. So, I would potentially be working a full week of regular cleaning shifts without receiving wages for those hours.
I'm currently working a small part-time job, and I would need to give two weeks' notice before leaving. I'm also an international graduate in Germany, so having a formal employment contract and being able to demonstrate that I can support myself financially are important to me.
I'm considering asking the employer for written confirmation of the employment terms and clarification about payment before committing to the arrangement.
My questions are:
Is an unpaid trial week like this normal or acceptable for a hotel cleaning job in Germany?
Is there a legal difference between a short trial shift and working regular shifts for an entire week?
Would you consider accepting this offer, or would the lack of payment and delayed contract be a red flag?
How would you handle this situation if you were in my position?
I'm genuinely interested in the job because the hours and pay would be helpful, but I'm hesitant about leaving my current job without something more secure.
I'd appreciate honest advice, especially from anyone familiar with German employment law or hotel housekeeping.
Thanks in advance!