In recent years, the region bordering France has developed into a stable economic hub in southern Germany. Under the name “Black Forest Power Region,” the district combines a high concentration of industry with a high quality of life, providing a solid foundation for the professional and personal futures of skilled workers from abroad as well.
The economic structure: Where global market leaders meet tradition
The economic strength of the Ortenau district is based on several pillars. In the industrial sector, it is often family-run businesses in particular that play a leading role worldwide in their respective niches as so-called "hidden champions”. In the mechanical engineering sector, companies such as Herrenknecht AG in Schwanau, the Meiko Group, and Hobart GmbH in Offenburg set international standards. The Zimmer Group in Rheinau has also established itself as a major player in automation technology.
This picture is complemented by metal and steel processing. With Badische Stahlwerke having their base in Kehl, PWO AG in Oberkirch, and the Fischer Group in Achern, the district is home to companies that play a significant role in the global automotive and construction industries. But this diversity is evident in other fields as well: Koehler Holding in Oberkirch represents the paper industry, while Hubert Burda Medien and EDEKA Südwest manage their logistics and administration from Offenburg. In the field of sanitary engineering, Duravit AG is a major employer in the district’s southern part. In addition, well-known companies in the manufacturing sector also play a key role in making Ortenau an important industrial hub.
Another defining feature of the region is viticulture. About 3,000 winegrowing families cultivate an area of approximately 2,700 hectares. This sector is not only a cultural heritage but also a significant economic factor that is closely linked to tourism. The approximately 274 wineries and winegrowers' cooperatives provide numerous jobs and are a driving force behind the region's marketing efforts. Together with the hospitality industry and Europa-Park in Rust – Germany’s largest amusement park – the tourism sector is driving record numbers of overnight stays, making one in seven jobs in the district dependent on this sector.
Latest job market figures
The job market in the Ortenau district is strong in the spring of 2026. The unemployment rate stood at 4.5% in February, which was below the state average for Baden-Württemberg. Despite the general economic challenges, demand for workers remains high, as evidenced by the fact that in February 2026 alone, over 600 new job openings were reported to the local Employment Agency in Offenburg. Across the region, there are currently about 3,500 jobs officially listed as vacant. The manufacturing sector, the retail sector, and the transportation and logistics sectors, in particular, are constantly on the lookout for new skilled workers.
Skills shortage: Where professionals are needed the most
In certain industries, the demand for qualified personnel is very high, so foreign applicants have excellent prospects for permanent employment.
There are particularly good opportunities for foreign skilled workers in the social services and healthcare sectors. At regional hospitals, such as the Ortenau-Klinikum or the facilities operated by Mediclin AG, there is a consistently high demand for nursing staff and medical personnel, which offers job seekers a high degree of job security. However, an increase in staffing needs has also been reported recently in the service sector, the construction industry, and especially in the manufacturing sector.
Why the Ortenau district is a great place for foreign professionals
The Ortenau district’s geographical proximity to France and its export-oriented economy create a cosmopolitan work environment. The Welcome Centers in Baden-Württemberg also assist businesses and foreign skilled workers and their families with the immigration process in the Ortenau district. The International and Specialized Services (ZAV) also offer additional assistance with the recognition of foreign professional qualifications, the visa application process, and job searches. In addition, many local companies are actively investing in the integration of their new employees. The range extends from in-house training to support for language courses.