eXplore Tire Manufacturing & Engineering Graduate Program

Job Description

eXplore Tire Manufacturing & Engineering Graduate Program | Continental

The Tone:
This is an early career graduate program at Continental, with phases involving hands-on experience in a plant setting in the U.S. and advanced training in Hanover, Germany. Continental is a global leader in tire manufacturing, founded in 1871, dedicated to producing premium tire solutions for diverse vehicles including cars, trucks, buses, and two-wheelers. The company focuses on making mobility safer, smarter, and more sustainable through its advanced technologies and services. This graduate program is critical for developing future talent who will contribute directly to the core of tire manufacturing and engineering, driving operational excellence and innovation across global business functions.

The TL;DR
• Role: Early Career
• Type: Full-time
• Location: U.S. Plant Location (Phase 1), Hanover, Germany (Phase 2)
• Mission: To develop practical expertise and a global network in tire manufacturing, engineering, and business operations through structured rotations and projects.

What You’ll Actually Do
• Practical Manufacturing Immersion: Gain extensive hands-on experience and acquire in-depth operational knowledge of tire production. This includes a thorough introduction to specific technologies and machines within a PLT/CVT plant, completing structured department rotations, and engaging in a significant 4-month shopfloor experience with shift work, all while rigorously adhering to established Environmental, Safety, and Health (ESH) responsibilities.
• Project Leadership & Contribution: Actively contribute to and lead impactful Manufacturing and Engineering projects at the plant level, focusing on process improvements and innovation. Additionally, you will engage in central projects that span broader manufacturing, engineering, research and development (R&D), and business perspectives.
• Structured Professional Development: Fulfill a comprehensive central training plan specifically designed to build technical knowledge, competencies, and capabilities in advanced manufacturing processes. This phase also aims to develop a deep understanding of the global tire business landscape and Continental’s organizational structure.
• Global Network Building: Systematically establish and cultivate a robust professional network. This includes forging relationships throughout the plant, with key central departments, and with international trainees and fellow graduates during your foundational period in the U.S. and your subsequent placement in Hanover, Germany.
• Market & Sales Exposure: Immerse yourself in the Marketing & Sales organization for a dedicated period of 1 to 2 months. During this time, you will gain a general overview of the overall M&S strategy, understand the specific tasks and responsibilities of an M&S department, and acquire first-hand experience by working directly with sales teams in a tire shop or during customer visits.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Early Career with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial Engineering, or a related field. Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required.
• Experience: Demonstrated Project Management experience; minimum of 2 months in an international internship, study abroad, or working in a multicultural and international team.
• Skills: Foundational understanding of production processes, rubber technologies, material flow, and plant operation.