Well, the correct german word is to say 'Fachkräftemangel' which in my experience translates to 'We need someone with 20+ years of experience, that we can pay like an intern'
How though. I don't mind working for cheap since I am almost retiring anyways. Need something to keep me busy if I don't have to stress about politics.
Second: ageism is a thing, even though it’s not legal to be one. They want someone that has 20 yoe who is 18 and is going to work 50 years for a dime for them