The job profiles in the health sector are diverse. The tasks and areas of activity cover the entire life of people, from birth to family planning to old age. Health experts accompany us through all situations and help with special problems as well as with holistic health.
For orientation for patients and career choice, we have compiled the following list. It is probably not complete, but something more complete will hardly be found on the Internet. If an important job description is missing, we look forward to a comment at the bottom of this page.
Health Consultant Job Profiles
General health advice
Health Consultant
A general health advisor advises people on health and well-being issues. He/she supports clients in achieving their health goals by advising on healthy lifestyle habits, diet and exercise. There is no uniform vocational training for health consultants, but an in-depth knowledge of human anatomy, nutrition, fitness, and general health issues is required.
Health Manager
A health manager plans, organizes and controls processes in the healthcare sector. He needs knowledge of business, legal and medical topics as well as skills in project management, leadership and data handling. There are various training paths, such as a degree in health economics or health management.
Health practitioner
A health practitioner uses alternative methods to promote health and well-being and should have knowledge in various areas such as diet, exercise and naturopathy. There are different educational pathways, ranging from short courses to longer degree programs, but the profession is not always state-recognized and may have different regulations depending on the country and region.
Nutritional advice
Diabetes Assistant
A diabetes assistant cares for and advises diabetes patients. He administers insulin, measures blood sugar, monitors treatment plans, and trains patients. Knowledge of diabetes management and medical terminology is important. The training takes place as further education or special training with a state degree.
Diabetes Consultant
A diabetes counselor is a healthcare professional who helps people with diabetes manage their condition. You have in-depth knowledge of diabetes management and can create individual treatment plans for patients. Good communication and counselling skills as well as a deep understanding of the needs of people with diabetes are important skills. In order to work as a diabetes counselor, a degree as a health professional and specialized training is usually required.
Dietician
Dieticians are healthcare professionals who help people optimize their diet. They work closely with healthcare professionals to create and monitor individual nutrition plans. Core competencies are nutritional sciences, physiology, disease management and pedagogical skills. A completed three-year vocational training or a course of study/further education in the field of nutritional sciences is common.
Dietician
Dietitians help people improve their diet and solve health problems. You create individual nutrition plans and need in-depth knowledge of nutrition and communication. Training opportunities include a three-year vocational school, a degree in nutritional science or further training after a medical profession.
Diet cook
As a dietician cook, you prepare special meals for people with special dietary needs, e.g. in hospitals or nursing homes. For this purpose, menus are planned, customers are advised and hygiene and quality standards are observed. Knowledge of nutritional sciences, food chemistry and kitchen management is required. The training takes the form of a three-year training as a cook followed by further training or further training after training in the hospitality industry. It is also possible to study nutritional sciences or food technology.
Nutritionist
Nutritionists are experts who support clients in achieving a healthy and balanced diet. You should have a comprehensive knowledge of nutritional physiology and food chemistry, as well as skills in creating nutrition plans and providing individual advice to people at all stages and situations of life. Training as a nutritionist can be achieved through various ways, such as a degree in nutritional sciences, further training or vocational training in this field.
Sports & Fitness Consulting
Aerobics trainer
An aerobics trainer offers music-based fitness and exercise classes tailored to the participants. Tasks include course planning, implementation and participant supervision. Knowledge of fitness, anatomy, nutrition and motivation is required. Further training or certification is common, but not essential, if relevant experience is available.
Fitness Consultant
Fitness consultants are health and fitness professionals who provide individualized counseling and care, including knowledge of anatomy, physiology and nutrition, as well as the ability to create training plans. Social skills are also important to motivate and support clients. Training opportunities include vocational training, further training or studies in sports and health management.
Fitness trainer
A fitness trainer helps people improve their physical fitness and health. You should have knowledge in sports science, training theory, anatomy and nutrition. Fitness trainers create individual training plans and motivate their clients. There are different training paths, such as study, training or further education to become a fitness trainer. Many trainers complete additional certifications.
Gymnastics teacher
Gymnastics teachers are exercise and health professionals who work in fitness and health centres, clubs or schools and teach yoga, pilates or aerobics. You need knowledge in anatomy, physiology, sports medicine, psychology and nutrition as well as skills in group leadership and dealing with people. The training can take the form of vocational training or a degree in sports science, supplemented by further training to deepen or specialise the specialist knowledge.
Personal Trainer
A personal trainer supports individuals or groups in achieving their fitness goals through individual training plans, dietary recommendations and motivation. Personal trainers should have knowledge of anatomy, physiology, training principles, methods, and nutrition, as well as consider individual needs and goals. There are various training paths, e.g. courses of study in the field of sports science or management, further training or vocational training as a sports and fitness manager.
Sports specialist
Sports professionals are experts in sports and fitness who plan, organize, and direct activities and programs to promote people’s physical fitness and health. Her knowledge includes anatomy and physiology, group leadership, motivation and the use of sports equipment. There are various training opportunities, including sports science studies, vocational training in the fitness or sports field, and continuing education and certifications in specialized fields such as yoga or personal training.
Physical education teacher
Sports teachers promote the sports education of children, young people and adults in schools, clubs and other institutions. They teach various sports, support the individual development of their students and need in-depth knowledge of anatomy, physiology, didactics and pedagogical skills. Access to the profession takes place through a sports science degree with a focus on teaching or vocational training as a sports and fitness merchant with subsequent further training.
Counseling
Family, child & age
Educational Counsellor
Professionals in assisting parents in raising their children are also referred to as educational counsellors. They help parents resolve conflicts and may have an academic background in parenting or psychology.
Child, Youth and Family Counsellor
Child, youth and family counsellors are experts who support families in difficult situations, such as separations or conflicts. As a rule, they have completed a degree in social pedagogy or psychology and have continued their education.
Gerontologist / Gerontologist
Gerontologists deal with the challenges associated with the aging process. You may be qualified by studying gerontology or geriatrics.
Stress and recovery
Burnout Consultant
Burnout counselors are usually specially trained professionals who help people with burnout symptoms recover. They can also work as coaches.
Relaxation pedagogue
Relaxation educators teach people relaxation techniques and help them reduce stress. You may have completed training in relaxation pedagogy or a related field.
Mental trainer
Mental trainers support people in improving their mental abilities and achieving their goals. You can have training as a mental trainer or a degree in sports psychology.
SPA & Wellness Trainer
SPA and wellness trainers advise clients on wellness and relaxation offers to improve their health and well-being. You may have completed training as a SPA and wellness trainer or a degree in health and tourism sciences.
Wellness Consultant
Wellness consultants help clients improve their well-being and maintain their health. As a rule, they have completed training as wellness consultants or a degree in health and tourism sciences.
Healthier living
Feng Shui Consultant
Someone who helps clients create a harmonious environment by applying principles of Feng Shui. Formal training is not essential, but experience or training in feng shui practices or design may be beneficial.
Other consulting services
Breathing, speech and voice teacher
Breathing, speech and voice teachers are experts who help people use their voice more effectively and improve their breathing, speaking and voice techniques. Training or studies in linguistics or voice studies, speech therapy or a related discipline is usually required.
Respiratory therapist
Health professionals who help clients deepen their breathing and improve their breathing patterns to promote physical and emotional health. Training or study in respiratory therapy or a related discipline is usually required.
Vision Trainer / Visual Trainer
Vision trainers help clients improve their visual perception and skills, whether it’s eye problems or sports activities. Training or study in optometry or a related discipline, as well as experience in eye care or visual rehabilitation are usually required.
Professions in the health sector
Nursing professions
Geriatric nurse
Geriatric nurses are responsible for the care and support of the elderly. They support the elderly in personal hygiene, nutrition and mobility and pay attention to their health and safety. Geriatric nurses need a completed training in geriatric care.
Geriatric Care Assistant
Geriatric care assistants support geriatric nurses in the care and support of the elderly. They help with personal hygiene, eating and drinking, and mobility. Geriatric care assistants need a completed training as a geriatric care assistant.
Nursing Assistant Specialist
Nursing assistants support nursing professionals in the care and care of patients. They take on assistance tasks in personal hygiene, eating and drinking and mobility. Nursing assistants require a completed training in nursing assistance.
Health and paediatric nurse
Health and paediatric nurses take care of sick children and adolescents. They support the medical care, personal hygiene and well-being of patients. Health and paediatric nurses require completed training in health and paediatric nursing.
Nurse (GuK)
Nurses and nurses are responsible for the care and care of patients. They take on tasks in medical care, personal care and the care of patients. Nurses and nurses need a completed training in health and nursing.
Health and nursing assistant
Health and nursing assistants support nurses in the care and support of patients. They help with personal hygiene, eating and drinking, and mobility. Health and nursing assistants require a completed training in health and nursing assistance.
Home and family caregiver
Home and family carers support families in caring for sick relatives or relatives in need of care. They take on tasks in the household and in the care of patients. Home and family carers need a completed training in home and family care.
Midwife / maternity nurse
Midwives look after pregnant women before, during and after childbirth. They support the birth, control the vital functions of the newborn and give instructions for baby care. Midwives require a completed training as a midwife.
Curative education nurse
Curative education nurses look after and support people with disabilities in coping with their everyday lives and participating in social life. They develop individual support plans and accompany those affected in their implementation. Curative education nurses need a completed training in curative care.
Curative care assistant
Curative education nursing assistants support curative education nurses in the care of people with disabilities. They help with the care, support and implementation of support measures. Curative education nursing assistants need a completed training as a curative education nursing assistant.
Nursing Service Management (PDL)
Nursing service managers are responsible for the organization and management of a nursing service. They plan and coordinate the processes, hire the staff and manage them. They are also responsible for quality assurance and customer support. Nursing service managers require a completed training as a nurse and usually further training as a nursing service manager.
Nurse
Nurses are responsible for the comprehensive care, care and support of patients. They take on medical and nursing tasks and advise the patients. Nurses need a completed training in nursing.
Social Assistant
Social assistants support social pedagogues and educators in the care of children, adolescents and other persons cared for. They help with coping with everyday life and the implementation of educational measures. Social assistants require a completed training as a social assistant.
Socio-pedagogical assistant / nanny
Socio-educational assistants and childcare workers look after and support children and young people in various institutions such as kindergartens, children’s homes or schools. They help with coping with everyday life, the promotion and implementation of educational measures. Socio-pedagogical assistants and childcare workers require a completed training as a socio-pedagogical assistant and childcare worker.
Medical professions
Medical-technical professions
MTA – Medical Technical Employee
MTAs work in medical institutions and support physicians in examinations, diagnostics and therapy. Your tasks include taking blood samples, taking X-rays or caring for patients during an examination. The training usually takes place on a dual basis at school and in the institution. After training, MTAs can gain further qualifications through further training and specializations and take advantage of career opportunities as team or department leaders or in research and development.
ATA – Anesthesia Technical Assistant
ATAs support anaesthetists during the performance of anesthesia procedures, for example by taking over patient monitoring and ventilation or administering medication. They are responsible for preparing the anesthesia machine and medications and ensuring that the anesthesia is performed safely and smoothly. The training usually takes place at vocational schools or hospitals and usually lasts 2-3 years. After the training, ATAs can expand their career opportunities in various specialist areas through further education and training.
CTA – Surgical-Technical Assistant
CTAs support surgeons during surgical procedures, for example by preparing instruments, treating wounds or caring for the patient. They ensure that everything runs smoothly during the procedure and are often the surgeon’s right hand. The CTA training also takes place at vocational schools or hospitals and usually takes three years. After training, CTAs can improve their career prospects through specializations and further training and, for example, work as surgical managers or in research.
MTAF – Medical Technical Assistant for Functional Diagnostics
MTAFs are active in diagnostics and perform examinations for functional diagnostics, such as ECGs or lung function measurements. They ensure that the examinations run precisely and smoothly and are responsible for ensuring that the results are correctly interpreted and documented. Training to become an MTAF also takes place at vocational schools or hospitals and usually lasts three years. After completing their training, MTAFs have various career paths open to them, for example in research or as a specialist in a particular diagnostic method.
MTLA – Medical-Technical Laboratory Assistant
MTLAs work in laboratories and are responsible for performing medical examinations, such as blood or urine samples. They operate and maintain the laboratory equipment and are responsible for evaluating and documenting the results. MTLAs also play an important role in quality assurance and are responsible for compliance with standards and regulations. The training usually takes place at vocational schools or hospitals and usually lasts three years. After training, MTLAs have career opportunities in research and development or as a team or department leader.
MTRA – Medical-Technical Radiology Assistant
MTRAs work in radiology and are responsible for performing diagnostic and therapeutic examinations such as X-rays, CTs or MRIs. They prepare the patients for the examination, operate the radiology equipment and ensure that the examination is carried out precisely and smoothly. MTRAs are also responsible for the safety of patients and staff during the examination. The training usually takes place at vocational schools or hospitals and usually lasts three years. After completing their training, MTRAs can increase their career opportunities through further training and specializations, for example as a specialist consultant or in research and development.
Therapeutic professions
Respiratory therapist
Respiratory therapists support people with breathing difficulties in improving and normalizing their breathing. They use various techniques to optimize lung function and reduce stress. Respiratory therapy can be used as a standalone therapy or in combination with other forms of therapy. The training to become a respiratory therapist usually lasts three years and can be completed at specialized schools or in the form of further training.
Occupational therapist
Occupational therapists support people in improving their everyday skills and maintaining or restoring their ability to act. To this end, they use different methods and techniques, for example to train motor skills, cognitive abilities or social skills. Occupational therapy is used, among other things, for people with physical, mental or psychological limitations. The training to become an occupational therapist usually lasts three years and takes place at specialized schools.
Art therapist
Art therapists use creative processes and artistic expressions to help people cope with problems or emotional stress. This can be painting, drawing, writing or other artistic activities. Art therapy is used, among other things, for mental illnesses, addiction problems or trauma. Training as an art therapist usually takes place at Master’s level and requires a degree in a relevant field.
Speech therapist
Speech therapists support people in improving or restoring their language skills. These include, for example, the diagnosis and therapy of disorders in the areas of language, speech, voice or swallowing. Speech therapy is used, among other things, in people with speech development disorders, voice disorders or neurological diseases. The training to become a speech therapist usually lasts three years and takes place at specialized schools.
Music therapist
Music therapists use music and musical processes to help people cope with problems or emotional stress. This can be playing instruments, singing or listening to music. Music therapy is used, among other things, for mental illnesses, addiction problems or trauma. Training as a music therapist usually takes place at Master’s level and requires a degree in a relevant field.
Orthoptist
Orthoptists deal with the diagnosis and therapy of visual disturbances and eye movement disorders. These include, for example, strabismus, double vision or limitations of eye mobility. Orthoptics is used, among others, in children with visual impairments or adults with neurological diseases. The training to become an orthoptist usually lasts three years and takes place at specialized schools.
Physiotherapist
Physiotherapists support people in improving or restoring their physical functioning. To do this, they use different methods and techniques, for example to train flexibility, strength or coordination. Physiotherapy is used, among others, for people with muscular or orthopedic diseases. The training to become a physiotherapist usually lasts three years and takes place at specialized schools.
Podiatrist / Podiatrist
Podiatrists deal with the prevention, diagnosis and therapy of diseases of the feet and toenails. These include, for example, nail and skin diseases, foot deformities or foot deformities. Podiatry is used, among other things, in people with diabetes or rheumatism. The training to become a podiatrist usually lasts three years and takes place at specialized schools.
Psychotherapist
Psychotherapists deal with the treatment of mental illnesses and problems. They use different forms of therapy and methods to treat, for example, depression, anxiety or trauma. Psychotherapy is usually learned as part of a degree in psychology or medicine and subsequent training as a psychotherapist. There are different orientations and specializations that make it possible to specialize in certain forms of therapy and target groups. Career options include working in your own practices, clinics or research institutions.
Medical Assistant Professions
Physician’s assistant
Physician assistants support female doctors in caring for patients. They take on administrative tasks, take blood samples, assist with examinations and consultations and organise appointments. The training to become a physician’s assistant usually takes 2 years, but there is also the possibility of a shortened training of 1.5 years. Career options include, for example, further training to become a medical assistant or practice manager.
Non-medical practitioner
Naturopaths treat patients naturally by using alternative therapies and healing methods. They make diagnoses, carry out therapies and advise their patients on health and well-being. The profession of non-medical practitioner is a state examination in Germany and does not require any specific training. Career options include, for example, specializing in certain healing methods or opening your own practice.
Medical assistant
Medical assistants support doctors and nursing staff in the care of patients. Their tasks include conducting examinations and treatments, organizing appointments and managing patient data. The training to become a medical assistant lasts 3 years. Career options are, for example, specializing in certain specialist areas, taking on management functions or further training as a practice manager.
PTA – Pharmaceutical Technical Assistant
PTAs support pharmacists in advising and caring for patients. They produce medicines, check prescriptions and advise patients on topics such as dosage and medication. The PTA training lasts 2 years and takes place at a vocational school. Career options are, for example, specializing in certain specialist areas, taking on management functions or further training as a pharmacist.
Dental technician
Dental technicians make dentures such as crowns, bridges and dentures. They work closely with dentists and orthodontists and advise patients on the various options for dental prostheses. The training to become a dental technician lasts 3.5 years and takes place in a dental laboratory. Career options include, for example, specializing in certain specialist areas or assuming management functions.
ZMFA – Dental Assistant
Dental assistants support dentists in caring for patients. Their tasks include carrying out examinations and treatments, organizing appointments and managing patient data, as well as assisting in the production of dental prostheses. The training to become a dental assistant lasts 3 years. Career options are, for example, specializing in certain specialist areas, taking on management functions or further training as a dental hygienist.
Rescue service professions
Paramedic
Paramedics are responsible for the medical care of patients in emergencies. They work in ambulances, emergency medical vehicles or on intensive care transport vehicles. Its activities include assessing the situation, carrying out life-saving emergency measures, documenting the operation and cooperating with other emergency services and hospitals. The training to become an emergency paramedic lasts three years and includes practical and theoretical content. Career opportunities are offered in the form of further training as a teaching paramedic, practical instructor or rescue service manager.
Paramedic
Paramedics are responsible for the medical care of patients in emergencies. They work in ambulances, emergency medical vehicles or on intensive care transport vehicles. Their activities include assessing the situation, carrying out life-saving emergency measures and monitoring vital signs. The training to become a paramedic lasts two years and includes practical and theoretical content. Career opportunities are available in the form of further training as an emergency paramedic, teaching paramedic, practice instructor or rescue service manager.
Rescue service assistant
Rescue service assistants support paramedics and paramedics in caring for patients. Her activities include transporting patients and assisting with life-saving measures. The training to become an emergency service assistant usually lasts 160 hours and consists of theoretical and practical content. A career in the rescue service is possible through further training as a paramedic or emergency paramedic.
Rescue worker
Rescue workers support paramedics and paramedics in caring for patients. Her activities include transporting patients and assisting with life-saving measures. The training to become a rescue worker usually lasts 48 hours and includes theoretical and practical content. A career in the rescue service is possible through further training as an ambulance service assistant, paramedic or emergency paramedic.
Other medical professions
Gynaecologist / Gynaecologist
As a specialist in gynaecology and obstetrics, the gynaecologist examines, diagnoses and treats diseases and disorders of the female reproductive system. These include preventive examinations, birth preparation and care as well as the treatment of menstrual disorders, infections and tumours. The training as a gynecologist takes place after medical studies through several years of specialist training and offers career options in clinics, practices or scientific institutions.
Kinesiologist / Kinesiologist
Kinesiologists deal with the functioning of the human body and the interaction between body and psyche. They use targeted movement and relaxation exercises as well as manual techniques to alleviate or treat physical and psychological complaints. The training as a kinesiologist takes place at universities or private training institutes and offers career options in their own practices, therapy centers or as lecturers.
Psychological counsellor
As a psychological counsellor, you support people in coping with personal problems and challenges. These include conflict management, stress management, increasing self-esteem or grief work. Training as a psychological counsellor takes place at private training institutes and usually does not require a university degree. Career options are available in our own consulting practices, in social institutions or as lecturers.
Masseur and medical lifeguard
As a masseuse and medical lifeguard, you treat physical complaints and illnesses through targeted manual applications such as massages, movement exercises and baths. The aim is to promote and maintain the physical and mental health and well-being of patients. The training as a masseuse and medical lifeguard takes place at state-approved vocational schools and offers career options in spa and rehabilitation clinics, wellness centers or own practice.
Administrative health professions
Occupational Health Manager
They are responsible for promoting the health and well-being of employees in a company. To this end, you will develop measures to prevent illness and stress and to promote a healthy lifestyle. An apprenticeship as a health manager or a degree in health management is recommended, career opportunities exist in various companies and industries.
Specialist in Prevention and Health Maintenance
As a specialist in prevention and health maintenance, you will work in the field of workplace health promotion. They plan and coordinate measures to prevent diseases and promote the health of employees. Training or further education as a specialist in prevention and health maintenance is possible, career opportunities are available in companies or as an independent consultant.
Fitness Economist
As a fitness economist, you work in the fitness and health industry. They plan and organize offers in the field of fitness and health, create marketing strategies and take care of customer support. An apprenticeship or study in the field of fitness economics is recommended, career opportunities are available in fitness studios, sports clubs or as a self-employed entrepreneur.
Hygiene Officer
As a hygiene officer, you ensure that hygiene regulations are adhered to in companies and institutions. They create hygiene concepts, train employees and monitor compliance with hygiene regulations. Training in hygiene management is recommended, career opportunities are available in various industries, e.g. in health care or in the food industry.
Public Health Manager / Health Scientist
As a public health manager or health scientist, you deal with the health care and promotion of population groups. They plan and coordinate measures to improve health care and education. A degree in health sciences is recommended, career opportunities are available in public institutions or in the private sector.
SPA & Wellness Manager
As a SPA & Wellness Manager, you work in the wellness and beauty industry. They plan and organize offers in the field of wellness and health, create marketing strategies and take care of customer care. An apprenticeship or study in the field of SPA & wellness management is recommended, career opportunities are available in wellness hotels, SPA facilities or as a self-employed entrepreneur.
Sports Manager
As a sports manager, you are responsible for the planning and organisation of sporting events and offers. They take care of the marketing of sporting events and look after athletes and clubs. A degree in sports management is recommended, career opportunities are available in sports clubs, associations or in the sports industry.
Sports and fitness clerk
As a sports and fitness manager, you work in fitness and sports facilities. They take care of the organization of training offers, customer service as well as accounting and marketing. An apprenticeship as a sports and fitness clerk is recommended, career opportunities are available in fitness and sports facilities, but also in other companies that offer sports offers.
Sports Scientist
As a sports scientist, you will be involved in the research and application of sports science findings. They develop training and movement concepts and work in the prevention and rehabilitation of injuries. A degree in sports science is recommended, career opportunities are available in sports clubs, associations, in health care or in research and teaching.