When you work through Zenjob, you’re in short-term employment (kurzfristige Beschäftigung). For you, that means maximum flexibility alongside your studies.
What makes short-term employment different
- No earnings limit: Unlike a mini job (geringfügige Beschäftigung), you can earn as much as you like.
- No hourly limit: You decide when, how often and how long you work.
- No social security contributions: Neither you nor we as your employer pay social security contributions (Sozialabgaben). You still pay taxes, though.
First the general agreement, then one contract per job
Sign your general agreement (Rahmenvereinbarung) with us first – only then can we offer you shifts. It forms the basis for all your jobs with Zenjob.
You still don’t have a permanent employment contract: You’re employed only for the duration of each job. That’s why you get a separate employment contract for every job as soon as we’ve booked you. Sign it before your shift starts – ideally right after your booking. It’s quick and easy with a digital signature. We don't accept contracts by post.
Why do I have to send Zenjob a contract for every job?
How do I register for the digital signature?
A maximum of 70 working days per year
There’s only one limit: You can work a maximum of 70 days per calendar year (January 1 to December 31) or within one general agreement.
Why can I only work 70 days a year with Zenjob?
Important: No professional employment status
Short-term employment is only possible if the German Pension Insurance (Deutsche Rentenversicherung) doesn’t classify your work as professional employment (Berufsmäßigkeit). This applies when your job counts as your main occupation – which can also be the case for students, for example if you:
- study at a university that isn’t state-recognised,
- study part-time,
- are doing a doctorate or
- are on a holiday semester (Urlaubssemester).
In these cases, you can’t work through Zenjob.
For companies: Looking for temporary staff at short notice? Visit our website to find out how to book flexible staff quickly and easily.
If you have any further questions on this topic, click Submit a Request.