Incoming Master's in CS (EU citizen): How realistic is working part-time in tech without German? Workload & job search advice
Hi everyone,
I am finishing my Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science in Italy and I'm planning to move to Vienna next year to start a Master’s programme at TU Wien (not so sure about what programme rn, will be surely IT related).
Since I need to support myself financially, I am looking to work part-time (~15–20 hours/week) in a software development / IT role. As an EU citizen, work permits won't be an issue, but my German is currently beginner level, but I'm fluent in English (I'm studying to take an IELTS C1 certification). In terms of technical background, I mainly work with backend development, Linux environments, and systems/networking, but I also did in the past some web development projects.
I’d really appreciate some honest, on-the-ground insights from current students:
- How realistic is it to land a Werkstudent or junior developer position in Vienna with English only? Are companies open to international students for technical roles, or is German practically mandatory for most part-time?
- How manageable is the TU Wien CS Master's curriculum alongside a 15–20h work week? Is attendance strictly mandatory for most courses, or is there enough flexibility to balance both without burning out?
- Aside from LinkedIn and karriere.at, what are the most effective channels to look for student tech positions? Do people usually start with internal uni roles after the first semester, or look directly at external tech companies?
- What is the realistic net salary for a 15–20h working student contract? And is it realistically enough to cover rent (WG/dorm) and living expenses in Vienna?
Thanks a lot in advance for your time and help!