How much does a plant mechanic earn?
Plant mechanics (often sanitary, heating and air-conditioning trades) plan, install and maintain piping and building systems: they fit sanitary installations, heating, climate and ventilation components and keep plant running safely and efficiently. Entry is typically via the dual apprenticeship as Anlagenmechaniker/-in. Gross pay depends on region, collective agreements, employer, order books and specialisation (e.g. heat pumps, gas, customer service). As a guide, qualified plant mechanics in Germany in 2026 often earn about €3,250–€3,900 gross per month; during apprenticeship around €1,000–€1,330 is typical.
Salary by region (gross/month)
Guide figures as of 2026. The apprenticeship column refers to the dual training as Anlagenmechaniker/-in; qualified means working plant mechanics. Actual pay depends on collective agreements, employer, region, experience, specialisation (e.g. heat pumps, gas, service) and order situation and is not a guarantee.
Further training options
Job and everyday work
A plant mechanic works in plant rooms, residential and commercial buildings and on construction sites: planning and installing systems, laying pipes, commissioning and maintaining plant. Everyday work includes customer talks, coordination with other trades, measuring and testing, and service and emergency call-outs – often under time pressure and with high demands on safety and correct workmanship.
- Plan, install, extend and modernise sanitary, heating and climate systems – from pipes and fittings to heat generators and controls.
- Commission, adjust and maintain plant; diagnose faults, replace components and document the work.
- Coordinate with customers, site management and other trades; read plans, parts lists and manufacturer specs and organise materials.
- Follow occupational safety, gas and water rules and environmental and hygiene requirements – including PPE and safe handling of media.
- Service and emergency call-outs, changing sites and seasonal peaks (e.g. heating season) are part of everyday work.
- Maintain tools and measuring devices, meet standards and quality requirements and, where needed, instruct apprentices.
