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ZF International Trainee Program |
| Industry: |
Consumer goods & Retail |
| Region: |
Europe |
| Open to: |
University graduates, good command of English and German |
| Salary: |
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| Duration: |
15 months |
| Starting date: |
Each year in October |
| Trainee profile: |
The objective of the international trainee program is to teach participants to work independently. As a trainee, you are faced each day with challenges that have to be mastered with creative, efficient solutions. To achieve this, you must be able to work flexibly and independently.
Study
You should have completed a technical or business program at a university or technical college with above-average grades. You must also have evidence of an advanced internship or study project work. ZF is a high-tech company, therefore it is important for you to have a keen interest in technology and technical subjects.
International approach
The ZF trainee program is international in nature. It is therefore important for you to have gained experience in a foreign country as part of your degree program, internship or job experience.
Language skills
Excellent foreign language skills (German required!) are a prerequisite for participation in the ZF trainee program.
Personality
ZF trainees are regarded as potential next-generation managers and the expectations are high. You should therefore have a well-rounded personality and be prepared to demonstrate this at the ZF Assessment Center.
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| Description: |
The ZF international trainee program offers college graduates an outstanding start in a career with a global company. Discover one of the world's leading automotive industry suppliers in 15 exciting months, apply what you have learned at college, gain hands-on experience in worldwide projects and grow with the challenges.
Creativity, not consumption
As a participant in the international trainee program, you will learn about ZF at various sites in Germany and other countries. Through participation in various projects, you will have a chance to take part in day-to-day work routines and establish contacts in the ZF global network. At the same time, you set up your program independently and organize your schedule at the various locations. The success of your projects will depend on your own motivation and commitment. There will always be someone there to support you with assistance and advice. In addition to your individual projects, you will be involved in a joint project with other trainees for the duration of the program.
Advanced training
A series of workshops and seminars designed to systematically support your personal development is included in the trainee program. The focus will always be on developing your professional, methodological and social skills. Topics ranging from presentation techniques and project management to intercultural communications help prepare you for your future job.
Curriculum
The ZF trainee program offers you opportunities to apply the knowledge gained in your college degree program. As a trainee, you can learn about the multifaceted ZF Group fields of activity while also acquiring cross-industry knowledge that will help you master future assignments.
Duration and program start
The trainee program starts each year in October.
The ZF trainee program lasts for 15 months.
Upon successful completion of the trainee program, you will be given an assignment within the ZF Group.
During the training period, you will have an opportunity to determine which work area is best for you. This will be taken into consideration for your future assignment.
Individual projects
During the 15-month training period, you will work on four self-organized individual projects at four different locations including one outside of Germany. Each project lasts three to four months and will prepare you for your future job assignment.
Joint team project
All trainees are assigned to a joint project that will be completed as a team during the course of the program.
Workshops
The ZF trainee program starts with an orientation week to lay the foundation for team development. Between the individual projects, one-week workshops and seminars focus on topics ranging from project management, to communication management and intercultural skills.
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| More information: |
Frequently asked questions
How does the application process work?
In the selection process, ZF is particularly interested in learning about your strengths. At the same time, we want you to have a general idea of what you can expect at ZF.
Are there scheduled starting dates or application deadlines? How far in advance should I apply for the program?
You can apply at any time. The earlier you submit your application the better. The trainee program starts each year on October 1st. To fill the time until the program starts, ZF offers internships, dissertation programs and summer vacation jobs.
I am not a German national. Can I still apply?
Yes. The ZF international trainee program has a global focus and welcomes applicants from all countries. However, you must have a good command of the German language, since three of the trainee program projects are based in Germany.
How long does the international trainee program last?
The trainee program lasts for 15 months. During this time you will work on three projects in Germany and one in another country.
Can I apply for the trainee program even if I have already had some initial job experience?
The program is primarily aimed at university graduates.
Does temporary employment as an au-pair or a language course in a foreign country count as foreign experience?
Foreign experience should be gained in the course of a degree program, internship or initial job experience. Temporary employment as an au-pair or language courses in foreign countries are not regarded as foreign experience.
What language skills are required to join the program?
You should a good command of both English and German. Your ability to speak other languages is also advantageous.
Does ZF offer foreign trainees assistance in applying for residence and work permits?
If you reside in Germany when you start the trainee program, ZF will apply for a work permit on your behalf. Outside Germany, ZF also provides support by providing information and the required forms.
Does participation in a ZF trainee program make it easier to get an international position within the ZF Group?
Once you have completed the trainee program it is possible get a job at an international ZF site. The relationships you develop during the foreign project phase of the trainee program are extremely important in this context.
What is the duration of employment contracts for foreign trainees?
This depends on your nationality and the current legal situation. Employment contracts are normally signed for an indefinite period. In cases where the foreign trainee comes from a non-EU country (excluding USA), a contract is signed for the duration of the trainee program. This is based on the current legal situation (German Foreign Nationals Act).
Is additional training provided in the course of the trainee program?
Yes. During the five main sections of the program, ZF trainees attend a series of seminars and workshops on presentation techniques, project management, personality development, intercultural communication, etc.
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