This year, Audi will hire around 500 new employees. This is 200 more than forecast at the beginning of the year. Particular emphasis is being placed on two pioneering fields: electric mobility and lightweight design.
In addition to 782 apprentices, Audi will hire approximately 500 experts and entry-level staff members in Germany this year. The Company thus continues to invest long-term in personnel and expertise.
“We’re seeking out experts in electrification and lightweight design, in particular, so that we can further consolidate our technological edge over the competition,” said Dr. Werner Widuckel, Member of the Board of Management for Human Resources at AUDI AG. “Especially in these areas, we must be farsighted,” he added. “We are searching for people who unite innovative brilliance with passion and expert craftsmanship.”
According to students, Audi is the most attractive employer. That was the conclusion of studies published in May by two market research institutes, Trendence and Universum, regarding employer attractiveness among German university graduates. In both surveys, engineers and economists declared the Ingolstadt based company to be number one.
“Audi offers attractive products and success. And, consequently, a working environment which is attractive as well as secure. It is precisely that which constitutes a top-notch employer nowadays. The enthusiasm among the many Audi applicants is clear proof of that!” says Michael Groß, Head of Personnel Marketing at AUDI AG.
Overview of AUDI AG’s entry-level and training programs
Vocational training at Audi
AUDI AG offers instruction in more than 20 skilled trades at its two German sites. In 2009, a total of 722 people began Audi apprenticeships in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm. To mark its anniversary “100 years of Audi” that it celebrated last year, the Company will be offering an additional 100 apprenticeships for young people in 2010. As part of a dual-track education in a choice of four technical trades, there is also the possibility of simultaneously qualifying to later study at a technical university.
Dual-track education
(StEP & studies at the Vocational Academy/Dual University of Baden-Württemberg) Participants of the StEP Program benefit from an intelligent blend of theory and practice, which consequently leads to excellent prospects for an Audi career and two full degrees in just five years: a Bachelor of Engineering and certification as a mechatronics specialist or vehicle mechatronics specialist (issued by a Chamber of Industry and Commerce). The Bachelor’s program at the Vocational Academy/Dual University of Baden-Württemberg at Audi’s Neckarsulm site allows participants to earn an internationally accredited Bachelor’s degree within three years and profit from an intelligent balance of theory and practice. With Audi offering hands-on exposure and the Vocational Academy/Dual University of Baden-Württemberg providing classroom theory, participants acquire comprehensive expertise.
Internships
Be it in Technical Development, Production, Toolmaking, Quality Assurance, Purchasing, Customer Service, Marketing/Sales, Finance and Organization, or Human Resources: students can intern in just about any Audi department. Audi internships last eight weeks to a maximum of six months. From day one, Audi interns actively participate in the workplace and on actual projects. In addition, Audi offers a broad array of supplementary events including an orientation session, a factory tour, and a series of presentations.
Students also have the option of writing their thesis or dissertation project at Audi.
First Job Experience Program
Thanks to Audi, university graduates who earned good grades but have not had the time or the opportunity to gain hands-on experience can gain professional know-how and an additional qualification while earning appropriate remuneration during a job lasting six to twelve months.
International Trainee Program
During a twelve-month program, trainees get to know key interfaces within and outside AUDI AG during various projects. They work independently on three to four projects in different areas during their traineeship. One project must be in their target field and a second at one of the Volkswagen Group’s non-German sites.
Newly hired employees
Newly hired, full-fledged employees immediately start on projects in their scope of work. New employees work with a mentor in their specialist area and customize a job familiarization strategy that introduces them to key contacts at the company.
Development program for graduates
The development program for university graduates and young professionals is aimed at engineers and economists. During their tailor-made program, participants first work one to two years in their target field. Then they spend two years in interface roles to expand their knowledge of the process chain. After about four years, these experts possess interdisciplinary knowledge and can master responsibilities in their target field. Customized, advanced vocational training — on and off the job — complements this program.
Doctorate degrees
University graduates at Audi can earn their doctorate in one of two ways: as an AUDI AG employee or by collaborating with Audi on a joint science project. The doctorate program at Audi has been continuously expanded in recent years. Some 140 scientists per year earn their doctorate degrees at the automobile manufacturer in Ingolstadt.
