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DRIVE – International Graduate Program

DRIVE – International Graduate Program

Become a high-performer with a great global and local network with advanced competencies and a clear prospect to take over leadership roles within Continental!

Take this chance and be a part of the DRIVE - International Graduate Program for an ideal entry into the world of Continental.

As a fulltime employee you will work on assignments locally and abroad, participate in tailor-made trainings, get a global insight into specific work areas, network activities and gain top management visibility. You will acquire valuable skills and competences, a great global network and a wholistic view of the global Continental organization.

The DRIVE Graduate Program offers you a solid foundation for personal and professional growth, which prepares you for challenging projects and your future at Continental!

DRIVE at a glance

Great Challenges

Hands-on work experience in three different areas and locations

Ongoing Support

Support from DRIVE coordinator team and a wide network of DRIVE Alumni

International Experience

Working abroad for 8 months 
Building your personal worldwide network 

Know-How Booster

Tailormade trainings and network activities
Holistic view on processes, structures, and functions

What we expect you to bring:

Ignite potential

Excellent Bachelor or Master degree in the relevant field.

Embrace growth

Communicative and self-driven team player. Passion to learn and grow. Combined with fresh-minded, result-oriented, structured, and self-responsible working style.

Global mindset

Flexibility to adapt to different cultures and working environments and locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does our DRIVE graduate program differ from a direct entry?

Continental’s DRIVE graduate program supports you to gain valuable skills and competences in your area of expertise and will prepare you for your future role. Through three carefully designed development steps you will gain a holistic view on processes, structures, functions, and interfaces within Continental. One of these steps is an 8-month long international assignment to one of our locations world-wide. In addition to your professional development, you will have the opportunity to attend DRIVE specific modules for personal development as well as have access to all Continental’s training and development measures. You will be supported in gaining visibility in the management team and provided with a solid foundation on which to build up your own personal worldwide network and career.

Who is the target group of the DRIVE graduate program?

The DRIVE graduate program is set up for graduates who are finalizing or have just finished a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree. Candidates with first professional work experience are also considered.

Can I apply for a DRIVE graduate program in a country where I am not a resident?

The DRIVE graduate programs are open to all, but some positions require knowledge of the local language or native fluency. Graduates are placed and employed under a local contract in the recruiting country. 

Can I apply for different positions within the DRIVE graduate program?

Yes. We offer the DRIVE graduate program positions in different locations and countries. You can apply for different positions but have in mind that your profile should fit the stated requirements. (Take a look at our job portal. Job postings for the DRIVE graduate program start for Germany and China in October and for Romania in January)

May I send an unsolicited application?

We do not accept unsolicited applications.  All applications have to refer to concrete positions. (Take a look at our job portal. Job postings for the DRIVE graduate program start for Germany and China in October and for Romania in January)

How long does the application process take?

You can follow your application status online and see in what stage it is. After applying, you will receive confirmation that your application was received. You may be asked to complete any missing information or to provide certain documents. Once these tasks are completed, the recruitment process then follows the steps as stated on the Continental DRIVE website.

What is the structure of the assessment center and how should I prepare myself?

Our assessment centers (AC) consist of individual and team tasks, presentations, and interviews. You will be given detailed information about these tasks at the AC. The language of the assessment center is English, and it takes place virtually.

You will be best prepared if you act as yourself and show your motivation.

What type of employment will I get as a DRIVE graduate?

The DRIVE graduate program involves a full-time employment with an unlimited contract for young professionals.

Where does the international assignment take place? Who decides?

The location of the international assignment has to be meaningful. The selection of country and location depends on the position, which international locations have the greatest benefit for personal development and the needs of the department. The final decision is made together with the DRIVE participant, the supervisor and the local HR.

 

I graduate after the entry date 1st of May. Can I still apply?

If you graduate in the next couple of weeks after 1st of May, please feel free to apply.  Please keep in mind, that you should inform the recruiters about your graduation date during the recruiting phase.

Having a PhD, can I apply for the DRIVE graduate program?

If you have a PhD, are interested in the DRIVE graduate program and your profile fits the stated requirements, feel free to apply! See also FAQ “Who is the target group of the DRIVE program?”