A WORKPLACE WHERE YOU’LL FEEL AT HOME
Effective teaching starts with a strong team
Become part of the Stadtküken Nature Daycare Centers and join us in creating a place where everyone can grow together—with respect, mindfulness, and a connection to nature.
Nature & Movement: Whether it’s balancing, exploring, or gardening—being outdoors creates genuine opportunities for learning and building relationships.
Structure & Safety: Rituals such as morning circle or shared meals provide a sense of predictability—for both the children and the staff.
Relationships & Security: A sense of security arises from affection and mindful interaction—the foundation for trust and growth.
Diversity & Inclusion: Diversity enriches us—through children, families, and professionals. Inclusion means showing genuine interest in one another.
It's really simple: Kids, Nature, and You
Nature as a learning environment, an open mind, and a spirit of mutual respect—this is where effective teaching takes shape. Children and adults are seen, taken seriously, and work together to shape their daily lives.
BECAUSE WE VALUE YOU
Your Benefits at a Glance
competitive salary
We’ll offer you a competitive salary in line with industry standards. And the best part is: you’re in control of your own salary growth! Our own modern pay grade system allows for regular raises that recognize your attitude and dedication—not just your years of service.
Up to an additional 50 € tax-free on your salary
You’ll receive up to 50 € per month tax-free, either as a gift card of your choice (from a wide range of providers such as REWE, Urban Sports Club, Thalia, IKEA, Hello Fresh, Aral, and many more) or on your very own Stadtküken prepaid card, which you can use to pay for anything with complete flexibility. Whether you’re grocery shopping, going out to shop, or filling up your car—you decide what to spend your money on.
At least an additional 20 € tax-free on top of your salary
You’ll receive at least an additional 20 € tax-free from us every month (the amount increases with each level). Since it’s important to us that you get as much as possible, we take every opportunity to give you a little something extra—tax-free. With this budget, for example, you can have us pay your internet bill or cover healthcare services such as physical therapy treatments.
30 days of vacation + special leave
In addition to your well-deserved 30 days of vacation, we also offer you special leave for significant events in your life. We want to be there for you in good times and bad. Whether you’re moving into a new home, getting married, welcoming a new baby, or attending the funeral of a close relative—we’ll give you the time you deserve.
At least a 15% contribution to the company pension plan (bAV)
Your future is also important to us. We contribute at least 15 %. As you advance to new levels, not only will your salary and benefits increase, but so will our contribution to your retirement plan. Never heard of an employer-sponsored retirement plan? No problem! Our partner will provide you with personalized, detailed advice until all your questions are answered.
Annual Individual Professional Development
Your knowledge and skills are indispensable and a true treasure for our little ones. That’s why we provide you with an annual professional development opportunity where you can deepen your knowledge of our core concepts (nature, mindfulness, and participation) as well as all other topics related to everyday life at the daycare center.
At least 4 study days per year
Communication with your team is particularly important, which is why—in addition to your regular staff meetings—you’ll have the opportunity four days a year to discuss your group and team structures, as well as pedagogical content and educational goals in early childhood education.
professional massage services
Especially in educational work, which is physically and emotionally demanding, regular relaxation is essential so that you can be energized, balanced, and fully present for the children and your team. That’s why we provide you with a professional massage cushion (developed in collaboration with physical therapists) at every Stadtküken daycare center. Use it for targeted muscle relaxation or simply as a personal break.
Big City Kids Summer Festival
There are so many wonderful people working at all of our Stadtküken daycare centers, and we’re convinced that everyone should get to know one another across all locations. You not only share a love for your profession, but also a caring attitude and a heart in the right place. You are the center of attention at our annual summer party. We’re celebrating you and your amazing work. You’ve more than earned it!
Christmas Party with Your Team
With all the stress that builds up in society toward the end of the year, it’s especially important to wind down mindfully. We’ll help you organize a small Christmas party as a team, where you can look back on your year together. Whether you try your hand at curling, venture into an escape room, or simply get together over a delicious meal—it’s entirely up to you. Whatever works best for your team.
We'd love to get to know you!
Would you like to get to know us better, or do you still have questions? Then feel free to contact Meggy (Wandsbek, Blankenese, Groß Borstel) or Mona (Treudelberg, Lokstedt, Neugraben). Feel free to check out their calendars and book an appointment that works for you. Otherwise, you can also reach Meggy and Mona by phone or email. We look forward to hearing from you!
Meggy Keller
SENIOR HR & RECRUITING MANAGER
Mona Barth
MANAGER
12 Locations in Hamburg
Erik-Blumenfeld-Platz 13
22587 Hamburg
Neugraben-Fischbek Daycare
Baumpieperweg 5
21149 Hamburg
Treudelberg Lemsahl Daycare
Lemsahler Landstr. 80
22397 Hamburg
Mühle Wandsbek Daycare
Ölmühlenweg 33B
22047 Hamburg
Lohbekpark Lokstedt Daycare
Lohkoppelweg 35b
22529 Hamburg
Putte Wandsbek Daycare
Ölmühlenweg 33A
22047 Hamburg
Johann's Garten Groß Borstel Daycare
Brödermannsweg 42
22453 Hamburg
Mühlenhof Wandsbek Daycare
Ölmühlenweg 33
22047 Hamburg
Haferblöcken Billstedt Daycare
Prachtnelkenweg 2
22119 Hamburg
Sülldorf Sülldorf Daycare
Sülldorfer Landstraße 128
22589 Hamburg
Berner Au Farmsen-Berne Daycare
Berner Heerweg 261-263
22159 Hamburg
Pusteblume Daycare Center in Bramfeld
Fabriciusstraße 126,
, 22177 Hamburg
Because effective teaching can only be achieved as a team
Swantje
Daycare Center Management, Mühlenhof Daycare Center
Annika
Educator, Mühle Daycare
Elena
Educator, Putte Daycare
Henrik
Daycare Center Director, Mühle Daycare Center
Your Daycare Job in Hamburg
Alle Standorte
Kita Berner Au - Farmsen-Berne
Kita Johanns Garten - Groß Borstel
Kita Mühlenhof - Wandsbek
Kita Pusteblume - Bramfeld
Kita Treudelberg - Lemsahl-Mellingstedt
Kita Villa Blumenfeld - Blankenese
Office - Poßmoorweg / Winterhude
Zu besetzende Positionen
Real Voices from Our Team
Elena
What I appreciate most about Stadtküken is the warm atmosphere—here, people truly treat each other with open hearts. Whether in the office or at the daycare center itself, everyone here has their heart in the right place. The children’s needs and well-being always come first here. The collaboration among equals is particularly impressive. I feel very lucky to be part of Stadtküken—I truly love working here!
March 2026
Franzi
What I really appreciate about Stadtküken is the sense of family. I fell in love not only with the concept, but also with the warmth of the team and the organization itself. I love coming to work every day because even when we go through tough times as a center and the work can be exhausting, my team has my back. We look out for one another, and that’s the kind of appreciation that makes Stadtküken so special to me.
August 2025
Jenny
Working at Stadtküken just feels right to me. Here, we treat each other as equals—within the team, with the children, and with the parents. Our approach isn’t just an idea—it’s something we put into practice every day. Of course, there are stressful days too, but thanks to our strong team spirit, we manage to get through even difficult situations together. And sometimes, when we laugh together, play, or are simply there for one another, it almost feels a little bit like home.
June 2025
Caro
At Stadtküken, I quickly realized that I was in the right place. I get to take on a lot of responsibility, and at the same time, my team supports and encourages me. We learn from each other every day—through our interactions with the children, with the parents, and, of course, among our colleagues.
What I find especially wonderful is that we don’t just talk about values like respect and teamwork—we actually live by them. When we laugh together, try new things, or are simply there for one another, it shows me just how close-knit we are.
May 2025
Kamila
In my work as an early childhood educator, it is especially important to me to recognize and respect each child’s uniqueness.
I want to create a safe and loving environment where children feel secure and can develop their abilities. In doing so, I place great emphasis on individualized support that nurtures the children’s talents and interests. I’m so grateful that I can live up to my standards here at Stadtküken. We all share the same values, and that gives me a sense of security and peace of mind.
March 2025
Rosi
As a housekeeping staff member, I am viewed by the organization and the team at my daycare center as an integral part of the team. I contribute to the children’s well-being, and that is recognized.
I attend staff meetings and am involved in projects. That’s a level of recognition I haven’t experienced at other daycare centers.
July 2025
Michelle
What I particularly appreciate about Stadtküken are the flat hierarchies and the open communication within the team. I feel valued, can contribute my ideas, and always find someone willing to listen. It’s also especially wonderful how nature is integrated into everyday life—from the garden beds and animal projects to the nature-oriented outdoor area. The great collaboration with the parents rounds out the concept. I’m very happy to be part of this daycare center.
Frequently asked questions
Working Conditions and Benefits
What makes working at Stadtküken special?
Working at Stadtküken means being part of a community where appreciation and solidarity are palpable. We believe that high-quality education thrives when people feel seen and supported—with their strengths, ideas, and needs.
In your day-to-day work, you’ll guide children based on our approach centered on nature, mindfulness, and participation. You’ll help them discover the world firsthand, experience a sense of self-efficacy, and take responsibility for themselves and their environment.
To help you feel comfortable in this role, we establish a clear framework: regular check-ins where your work is acknowledged and valued, shared team goals that bring us together, and professional support through guidelines, knowledge-sharing, and training. This fosters a work environment where no one feels left on their own, but rather everyone shares responsibility together.
In short: At Stadtküken, you’ll find not just a job, but a sense of community that builds strength—for the children, for the team, and for yourself.
What work schedule options does Stadtküken offer?
Stadtküken offers both full-time and part-time positions. We create the work schedules as a team—and, of course, we take everyone’s preferences into account. This ensures reliable work hours that fit each person’s individual circumstances. The well-being of the children is always our top priority. That’s why we make sure to balance the needs of families and the reliability of daily care with the team’s availability.
The choice is yours: You can either choose a prepaid card that you can use just like a regular card when shopping, filling up your car, or running errands—or you can opt for gift cards from partners like Urban Sports Club, IKEA, Thalia, Hello Fresh, major online retailers, or drugstores. You can even use it to pay for your HVV ticket or your home internet service.
It’s important to us that you have the freedom to choose. That’s because traditional, one-size-fits-all benefits don’t reflect the diversity of our teams. Everyone has different needs: one person likes to work out, another enjoys getting new reading material every month; one takes the bus to work, while another drives. With our model, the benefit fits your life—not the other way around.
In addition, we offer 30 days of vacation per year, special leave for significant life events, a contribution to the company pension plan, and complimentary educational meals and beverages such as water, coffee, and tea.
Our benefits are as unique as our teams—flexible, fair, and always designed to make your day-to-day life easier and empower you.
How am I compensated for my work at Stadtküken?
Salaries at Stadtküken are in line with industry standards and appropriate, and are based on funding from the City of Hamburg. We structure compensation at our daycare centers within these guidelines.
It’s important to us that it’s not just the length of your tenure that counts: We look at your individual performance, your growth, and how you apply our approach to your work. Professional development, commitment, and responsibility are directly factored into your salary growth—so you have a direct say in how your salary is determined.
In short: Your salary is partly determined by your personal development and your commitment to Stadtküken.
What additional services can I expect from Stadtküken?
We offer a wide range of benefits that recognize your work in addition to your salary—and that you can use according to your personal needs. Every employee receives a tax-free monthly allowance that increases regularly as you grow with us.
The choice is yours: You can either opt for a prepaid card that you can use just like a regular card when shopping, filling up your car, or running errands—or you can choose gift cards for partners like Urban Sports Club, IKEA, Thalia, Hello Fresh, major online retailers, or drugstores. You can even use it to pay for your HVV ticket or your home internet service.
It’s important to us that you have the freedom to choose. That’s because traditional, one-size-fits-all benefits don’t reflect the diversity of our teams. Everyone has different needs: one person likes to work out, another enjoys getting new reading material every month, one takes the bus, and the next drives to work. With our model, the benefit fits your life—not the other way around.
In addition, we offer 30 days of vacation per year, special leave for significant life events, a contribution to the company pension plan, and complimentary educational meals and beverages such as water, coffee, and tea.
Our benefits are as unique as our teams—flexible, fair, and always designed to make your day-to-day life easier and empower you.
Team and Culture
What values shape the work culture at Stadtküken?
Our work culture is built on a clear foundation of values: mindfulness, appreciation, and an open, warm sense of community. We treat one another as equals, listen actively, and maintain respectful communication. We view challenges as opportunities and tackle them with a solution-oriented approach. Our educational professionals view their work not merely as a job, but as a calling—shaped by love, passion, and deep respect for each and every child. This shared understanding creates an atmosphere in which both children and staff feel seen, valued, and at ease.
What's the team like at the Stadtküken?
Our team is diverse and vibrant: dedicated educators, certified early childhood educators, social education assistants, therapeutic care workers, housekeeping staff, temporary workers, apprentices, and dual-track students all contribute their strengths and perspectives. This diversity is a great asset to us, as different experiences, backgrounds, and talents enrich our daily lives and have a positive impact on the quality of our work.
We also see it as our mission to provide training and help young people enter the field of education—in this way, we make a lasting impact and help strengthen future generations of professionals. New colleagues are warmly welcomed and actively integrated into the team. Through our respectful and supportive work environment, a strong sense of togetherness develops, rooted in genuine camaraderie—and one of which we are very proud.
What team events do the Stadtküken offer?
Community and togetherness are important to us—that’s why we not only foster a warm sense of camaraderie in our day-to-day lives, but also regularly celebrate both small and big moments together. These include our big, cross-location summer party, cozy Christmas celebrations with your daycare teams, and small, feel-good staff meetings that bring the teams even closer together. In addition, we value professional development in an inspiring setting: During team days and training sessions, we combine professional exchange with shared experiences that strengthen our sense of togetherness.
We’re convinced that when people laugh, celebrate, and discover new things together, they also work together in their day-to-day lives with trust and even more passion.
Educational Approach and Care
What educational approach does Stadtküken follow?
Here, you’ll find a modern, holistic approach that brings the city and nature together. We create spaces where children can experience nature with all their senses—our spacious outdoor areas invite them to spend a large part of the day outside.
Just as important to us as experiencing nature is the practice of mindfulness: Children learn to treat themselves, others, and their environment with care. In this way, we equip them with valuable skills that help them grow into self-confident, resilient, and empathetic individuals.
Our vision is to provide every child with the necessary “food for the soul” for a happy, self-determined, and mindful life. This guiding principle shapes every aspect of daily life at the Stadtküken daycare—and you can be a part of it by working with us to create spaces where children can grow, discover, and flourish.
What age groups are cared for at the Stadtküken daycare centers?
At our daycare centers, we care for children from infancy through preschool age—that is, from about one year old to six years old. In close consultation with the team, we sometimes also accept younger children if it is appropriate for both the child and the group. At some locations, we also offer family groups where children of different ages are cared for together. Many children find this sense of community particularly valuable because they learn from one another and can thrive in a family-like setting.
Regardless of the group structure, the children’s needs are always our top priority: The youngest children find a sense of security and safety with us, the older children can explore their growing curiosity, and for preschoolers, we provide targeted support to help them develop independence. In this way, we create environments where every child—no matter their age—can grow and explore in their own way.
How large are the groups, and what is the staff-to-student ratio?
At our Stadtküken daycare centers, group sizes and staff-to-child ratios are determined in accordance with Hamburg’s legal requirements.
In the nursery, we care for up to 15 children per group with three early childhood educators. Especially at this early age, children need a lot of closeness, a sense of security, and highly individualized support—which is ensured by the smaller group size and the presence of several caregivers.
In early childhood education, each group consists of 20 to 25 children—depending on available space—and is led by two qualified educators. The larger group size provides the children with valuable opportunities for social learning: they can form friendships, learn from one another, and explore their roles within a vibrant community.
In both areas, the professionals are supported by apprentices, dual-track students, and temporary staff, who bring fresh ideas and help lighten the workload on a day-to-day basis.
Locations
In which locations is Stadtküken represented?
Stadtküken currently has locations in several parts of Hamburg. We currently operate twelve daycare centers in various neighborhoods, including Wandsbek, Blankenese, Lokstedt, Groß Borstel, Lemsahl-Mellingstedt, and Neugraben-Fischbek. With this spread across the city, you’re sure to find a location that’s easily accessible for you. All of our centers follow the same nature- and mindfulness-based approach, but each has its own unique charm. Feel free to contact us, and together we’ll find the location that’s just right for you.
Can I choose my preferred work location?
Yes, you’re welcome to indicate in your application which of our locations you’d prefer. We’ll try to accommodate your preferred location and place you at the facility that’s the best fit for you. Since we have daycare centers in various neighborhoods throughout Hamburg, we can usually find a location that’s well-suited to where you live or your preferences. If there happens to be no opening at your preferred location, we’ll work with you to discuss alternative options.
Professional Development and Career
What continuing education and professional development opportunities do I have at Stadtküken?
Your professional and personal growth is especially important to us. That’s why, at Stadtküken, you have the opportunity every year to participate in professional development programs and earn new certifications. Whether through internal training sessions and workshops or external professional development opportunities—we support you in staying up to date on the latest educational trends and bringing fresh ideas to your work.
To help you navigate our diverse range of continuing education offerings, we’ve developed our own continuing education catalog. The courses are organized in a way that aligns perfectly with our approach. Each training program is evaluated by our team, and the feedback is incorporated into the annual update of the catalog. This allows us to maintain high quality and ensure that the training programs are practical and truly helpful.
And of course, we’re always open to your own suggestions: If you find an interesting topic that will help you and our team grow, we’d be happy to take it on.
What career opportunities are available to me at Stadtküken?
With us, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to grow—whether you’re aiming for a leadership role or would rather deepen your expertise in a specific area. You can specialize in certain subject areas, earn additional certifications, and apply your strengths in targeted ways. We make sure that everyone has the opportunity to grow according to their own interests—whether through professional development, by taking on specific areas of focus in day-to-day educational work, or by actively contributing to new concepts. As a growing childcare provider, new opportunities regularly arise here: For example, you can help open new childcare centers, grow into leadership roles, or take on special projects.
Application
How do I apply to Stadtküken?
The application process with us is quick and easy online. At the bottom of each job posting on our careers page, you’ll find an online application form that lets you apply directly in just a few minutes. Simply fill out the required fields and you can (but don’t have to) attach your resume and other documents as files. Once you submit the form, we’ll receive your application and get back to you as soon as possible.
How does the application process work?
Your first step – Send your contact information or application
You might think, “This could be a good fit.” You can find our current job openings right here on this page. Just click on the position that interests you and submit your information. If you don’t have your documents on hand right now, your contact information alone is sufficient for the first step.
Whether you already know exactly how many hours you’d like to work or where you’d like to work, or whether you’re still unsure—both are welcome. Feel free to select all locations; together, we’ll figure out what suits you best.
A Warm Welcome – Introductory Meeting
Shortly after you submit your application, Mona or Meggy—our team experts who have a keen sense of where you’d feel at home—will reach out to you. They’ll send you a link where you can easily choose a time for an interview that fits your schedule. During this initial conversation, we’ll listen to you, find out what’s important to you, and tell you how we work. That way, we can figure out together which daycare center, which role, and which team are the best fit for you.
Right in the thick of it, not just on the sidelines—shadowing at the daycare center
If we both feel, “This feels right,” the leadership of your potential new team will invite you to observe a day at work. On that day, you’ll immerse yourself in the Welt der Stadtküken: You’ll be right in the middle of our daily routine, get to know the team, experience the atmosphere, and meet the children. A day that shows you what it’s like to be a Stadtküken.
Honest Discussion – Feedback on the Job Shadowing Experience
After your observation period, we’ll set aside some time for an open discussion. We’ll hear how it went for you, and the team will also share their impressions. It’s important to us that everyone feels comfortable with one another.
Clarify all the important details – Agree on the general terms and conditions
Once we both agree that “this is a good fit,” we’ll discuss the next steps—salary, hours, and start date. We’ll do this calmly, clearly, and transparently.
A Contract with Heart – Signing the Contract
You’ll receive your contract digitally. It’s clearly worded, easy to understand, and thoughtfully designed. Because it’s important to us that you know right from the start what we’re offering you and what we hope to achieve through our collaboration. For us, mindfulness doesn’t begin on your first day of work—it starts much earlier.
And then what?
Then you’ve found your place—in a team that welcomes you with open arms, in a place where you feel at home, can grow, and where your ideas matter.
What documents should I prepare for my application?
Don’t worry—you don’t need much to apply to the Stadtküken just yet. The most important thing for us is to get to know you and understand your motivation. We’ll address many of these questions during our in-person interview anyway.
If you’d like, you can send us a few documents along with your application—such as a resume or transcripts. This will help us better understand your experience and qualifications to date. A brief cover letter is also welcome if you’d like to tell us a little about yourself.
But don’t worry: If you don’t have everything ready right now, that’s not a problem. Just submit what you have on hand—we’ll discuss the rest together.
Can I also submit a speculative application?
Yes, we also welcome unsolicited applications! If there aren’t any suitable job openings listed for you right now, feel free to send us your resume and a brief introduction. In it, please specify which role or department you’d like to work in at Stadtküken. Our team will then review your application to see if we can offer you a suitable opportunity and will get back to you.
I still have some questions before I submit my application. Who should I contact?
Feel free to contact Mona or Meggy at any time—they’ll be happy to help you and answer any questions you may have. You’re also welcome to schedule an appointment right away at a time that works for you:
Mona Barth (Lokstedt, Neugraben-Fischbek, Lemsahl-Mellingstedt)
Phone: 040 3289 012 86
Email: m.barth@stadtkueken.de
Meggy Keller (Wandsbek, Groß Borstel, Blankenese)
Phone: 040 3289 012 81
Email: m.keller@stadtkueken.de
Getting Started and Prerequisites
What qualifications do I need for a job at Stadtküken?
You’ve come to the right place if you enjoy thoughtfully supporting children in their development and share our values— mindfulness, a connection to nature, and participation —. The qualifications you bring depend on the position: As an early childhood educator, you should have completed the relevant training or degree program—or be currently working toward it. If you’re interested in a leadership position, we’d love to see additional qualifications or experience in this area, as well as a passion for empowering and supporting people and working together to shape structures. As a housekeeping staff member or temporary helper, what matters most to us is your commitment to helping create a warm, supportive environment for the children and the team. No matter which area you start in with us, what matters most is your attitude—an open heart toward children, a love for nature-based work, and a willingness to grow and develop alongside the team.
Can I apply even if I'm just starting my career?
Absolutely—we warmly welcome new professionals! Whether you’re fresh out of an apprenticeship or college, or have limited practical experience, we’ll support you every step of the way as you get started. We look forward to welcoming new colleagues with fresh ideas and will guide you as you confidently grow into your role. What matters most isn’t how much experience you’ve already gained, but rather your attitude: a warm heart for children, a passion for nature-based work, and a willingness to grow alongside the team. You’ll learn everything else as you go along with us.
What is the onboarding process like at Stadtküken?
It’s important to us that you feel well taken care of right from the start. That’s why we’ll provide you with close, structured support during your first few months so you can grow into your new role step by step.
Our “mentors,” who are responsible for helping you settle in, offer you special support: They serve as your dedicated points of contact, answer your questions, and help you quickly find your footing in daily life. Your team also takes the time to provide a thorough and respectful orientation so that you feel like part of the community right from the start.
We view onboarding as a two-way process: We give you regular feedback—and your feedback is just as important to us. This way, we can work together to see what’s already going well, where you feel confident, and what support you still need.
This way, you can take your time to find your bearings, gain confidence, and develop your strengths—with the reassuring knowledge that there’s always someone there to guide you.
Join our team!
Don’t have your application materials ready yet? No problem! Just send us your contact information, and we’ll get back to you right away. No need for a formal, elaborate application—just a sincere first meeting on equal footing. We look forward to hearing from you!