This guide is written in English for candidates applying to jobs in Austria. While international organizations, research institutes and technology companies in Vienna, Graz and Linz often accept English applications, most Austrian employers expect a German Lebenslauf and cover letter (Bewerbungsschreiben). Always start from the language and document list in the vacancy.
Make a document checklist from the vacancy
Austrian job applications frequently involve more than a single CV file: employers may ask for a Lebenslauf, a tailored Bewerbungsschreiben, and relevant graduation or employment certificates (Zeugnisse / Dienstzeugnisse). Check what the portal actually requests before uploading.
| Decision | What to verify in the vacancy | Your preparation step |
|---|---|---|
| Language | German vs. English application requirement | Write the Lebenslauf and letter consistently in that language |
| Lebenslauf | Tabular A4 structure and reverse-chronological order | Keep dates (MM.yyyy), job titles and employers exact |
| Cover letter | Whether a Bewerbungsschreiben is required | Connect your verifiable experience to the specific vacancy |
| Certificates | Which Zeugnisse or diplomas are requested | Check file legibility and combine or separate files as instructed |
| Academic titles | How earned degrees (BSc, DI, Mag., Dr.) are stated |
List only titles you officially hold without inventing equivalents |
Prepare a tabular A4 Lebenslauf with accurate qualifications
A standard Austrian Lebenslauf uses a clean tabular (tabellarischer) A4 layout with reverse-chronological work experience and education. Make sure timelines are easy to scan and explain any transitions straightforwardly without altering dates.
Preserve the exact wording of your degrees, apprenticeships or vocational qualifications, and state your German and English proficiency clearly (for example using CEFR levels B2, C1, C2). Distinguish self-assessed fluency from formal language certificates.
Preview a clean A4 structure in the chronological classic template, and see our German-language resume builder options guide for a comparison of tools.
Same story. A little more breathing room.
Switch the layout. Watch how spacing and hierarchy change the way this sample reads.
Alex Morgan
Product designerProfile
Product designer focused on making complex workflows easier to understand.
Experience
Product Designer · Example Studio
- Mapped the onboarding journey with the support team.
- Designed and tested a clearer account setup flow.
- Documented reusable components for the engineering team.
Skills
Interaction design · Prototyping · Design systems
Everything is asking for attention.
Closely packed headings and text leave fewer visual signposts. Try the other treatment.
Treat photos and supporting certificates deliberately
Photographs and personal header details remain common on Austrian Lebensläufe, though expectations vary between traditional industries and international firms. Treat a photo as a deliberate choice based on the vacancy, and ensure any certificates you attach are legible and properly named.
Inspect your Lebenslauf, letter and certificates as one package
Open every PDF you plan to upload and verify that your name, academic titles, dates and employer names match across your Lebenslauf, Bewerbungsschreiben and portal fields.
Use the PDF text check to inspect the text extracted from your CV in your browser, then check the employer’s application form fields before submitting.
Your experience. A fresh canvas.
Try a different look. These are actual Guul template previews, with illustrative sample content.
Let the details do the talking.
A traditional, text-led layout for a detailed career story. Review the smallest text at normal zoom.
Make this layout yours ↗The builder opens with your selected template.Replace all sample details with your own experience.Explore the resume lookbook →