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Getting Started with Bilstein & Siekermann®

Find answers to the most common questions about starting a career in the company

Are you interested in joining Bilstein & Siekermann® for an internship or as an apprentice, are you studying or do you already have some years of work experience? This is where we will answer your most common questions about entering our business, required application documents, traineeships, dissertations and related topics.

Frequently Asked Questions about training and work placements:

What apprenticeships does Bilstein & Siekermann® offer?

What apprenticeships does Bilstein & Siekermann® offer?

  • Punching and forming mechanic (3 years)
  • Process technician (3.5 years) 
  • Tool mechanic (3.5 years)
  • Cutting machine operator (3.5 years)
  • Industrial management assistant (3 years)
  • Office management assistant (3 years)
  • Warehouse logistics expert (3 years)

What are the entry requirements for the apprenticeships?

What are the entry requirements for the apprenticeships?

To be considered for an apprenticeship in our company, we expect good school grades, some work placement experience is an advantage and a high level of interest in the chosen field.

Can candidates increase their chances of training by means of a work placement despite mediocre grades?

Can candidates increase their chances of training by means of a work placement despite mediocre grades?

School grades aren't everything. In cases where grades are lower than we would normally like to see, we will give you the opportunity to prove yourself in the work environment. Work placements completed before or even during the application process at Bilstein & Siekermann® can convince us of your suitability.

In what areas are work placements possible?

In what areas are work placements possible?

You can get to know a number of different departments during a work placement.

Technical track:

  • CNC Machining (Cutting machine operator/Metal technician)
  • Cold forming (Punching and forming mechanic/process technician)
  • Toolmaking (tool mechanic)

Commercial track:

  • Work preparation
  • Purchasing
  • Human resources
  • Sales
  • Quality management

How long should a work placement for career orientation purposes last?

How long should a work placement for career orientation purposes last?

To gain initial insights into a job, students should complete a week-long work placement; compulsory school work placements typically last two weeks.

Work placements in our company usually last between one and four weeks. It is also possible to complete a work placement of several months. Work placements can be agreed individually at any time.

What does the day-to-day work routine of an intern look like?

What does the day-to-day work routine of an intern look like?

Interns undergo intensive induction at the start of the work placement and are then guided through the company. They are given the opportunity to accompany employees at the workplace and carry out some tasks on their own. They spend their time in the company – just like our employees – and work 7.25 hours a day.

What application documents are required for a work placement?

What application documents are required for a work placement?

Applicants for a work placement should create a cover letter and CV, and include their last school report.

What are the future prospects of the apprenticeship professions at Bilstein & Siekermann®?

What are the future prospects of the apprenticeship professions at Bilstein & Siekermann®?

Technical professions are particularly important. Qualified personnel are highly sought after. This is what makes technical apprenticeships so interesting at the moment, because there is not a surplus of qualified staff, on the contrary, we are already noticing a shortage of skilled workers.

How often do apprentices attend vocational school during the week?

How often do apprentices attend vocational school during the week?

Lessons at the vocational school take place weekly (alternating once or twice a week) in Gerolstein or Prüm. Punching and forming mechanics and process technicians attend the vocational school in Kehl (Baden-Württemberg), warehouse logistics experts attend the vocational training school in Trier.

How much do apprentices earn?

How much do apprentices earn?

Regardless of the apprenticeship, we pay a uniform salary graduated according to the year of training. Currently, this is: €997 in the 1st year, €1,056 in the 2nd year, €1,137 in the 3rd year and €1,180 in the 4th year of training.

Is it possible to stay in the company after successful completion of the training programme?

Is it possible to stay in the company after successful completion of the training programme?

This possibility exists. According to the collective agreement, we guarantee every apprentice a six-month employment contract on completion of their apprenticeship. This employment contract will be extended depending on the employee's performance.

How much do employees earn on completion of their apprenticeship?

How much do employees earn on completion of their apprenticeship?

The entry pay level is about €2,300 to €2,500 gross, depending on the where they work.

Frequently Asked Questions about dual study and studying in general:

What does it mean to take a dual study course?

What does it mean to take a dual study course?

A dual study course combines practical work in a company with theoretical learning in seminars and lectures at a college. Dual students fast-track an apprenticeship and degree programme in parallel in a shorter time. It is difficult and time-consuming, and it requires a lot of motivation and perseverance.

What are the benefits of a dual study programme?

What are the benefits of a dual study programme?

The particular advantage of the dual study programme is that it is very practice-based. All learning content is specifically relevant to the workflow within the company. At the same time, dual students can complete several qualifications in less time, setting them apart from other applicants. Another benefit is the salary that is paid throughout the training period. It is also highly likely that the company will offer these trainees full-time employment afterwards.

What are the requirements for the dual study programme at Bilstein & Siekermann®?

What are the requirements for the dual study programme at Bilstein & Siekermann®?

In order to be able to take a dual course in our company, we expect very good grades and previous achievements such as technical work placements. We also expect our candidates to be highly enthusiastic about technical challenges and for our company.

Is it possible that the company will offer these trainees an employment contract on successful completion of their dual study programme?

Is it possible that the company will offer these trainees an employment contract on successful completion of their dual study programme?

It is highly likely that the company will offer these trainees full-time employment afterwards. The employees know you and your work, and you are also familiar with the workflows within the company and also the manufacturing processes – in theory and in practice.

I need help choosing my degree course. Can I complete a work placement at BSH?

I need help choosing my degree course. Can I complete a work placement at BSH?

A work placement is great for helping you choose your degree course and provides insight into various job areas. We provide work placements for young people who are about to be or are already students in both technical and commercial fields.

What does the day-to-day work look like as an intern student?

What does the day-to-day work look like as an intern student?

Once you have been assigned to one or more areas, you will be given specific tasks and the opportunity to work on projects under supervision and to define and discuss tasks on a daily basis. To get you as close as possible to the real world of work, you will work with a variety of colleagues in normal working conditions and will be given your own assignments.

What is the recommended duration of a student work placement?

What is the recommended duration of a student work placement?

Students are advised to complete a work placement lasting a minimum of three to four weeks to gain an in-depth insight into the business. Spending more time in the company allows processes and activities to be understood in greater depth.

What application documents do we need for an student work placement?

What application documents do we need for an student work placement?

In order to apply, we need a cover letter describing the content of the degree course, the potential application possibilities, a CV and study credit certificates.

Can I complete a practice-based dissertation or thesis?

Can I complete a practice-based dissertation or thesis?

We help students plan, execute and complete their commercial and technical dissertations. Contact us and talk to us about your plans and your preferred subject.

General questions about the application process and the interview:

In what areas is BSH currently looking for employees?

In what areas is BSH currently looking for employees?

We are primarily looking for technical professionals at this time.

What documentation should I submit for an application?

What documentation should I submit for an application?

The required application documents include a cover letter (A4 sheet), CV with photo, the last two (work) references and proof of additional qualifications. If possible, please apply by email with an attachment containing the application documents, preferably in one continuous PDF document starting with the standard cover letter. Here are some more tips and information on how to create and design your application documents.

Does it make sense to send unsolicited applications?

Does it make sense to send unsolicited applications?

We are be happy to receive unsolicited applications, if your skills and experience match our job profiles.

Is it possible to visit the company, for instance to tour the company or carry out a work trial during the application process?

Is it possible to visit the company, for instance to tour the company or carry out a work trial during the application process?

Once we have received your application and you have received positive feedback from us, we will be happy to show you our company, either during a company tour or during a work trial. It is very important to us that we are also a good fit for you and that we meet your expectations.

How do you, as a candidate, prepare yourself to take on the new assignment at BSH?

How do you, as a candidate, prepare yourself to take on the new assignment at BSH?

We will put you through a special induction programme to help you get started with your new tasks. We will brief you and also give you any additional training you might need.

What happens in the interview?

What happens in the interview?

If your application meets our requirements, we will invite you to a face-to-face interview. The interview process depends on the vacancy and how many potential candidates are suitable for the vacancy.

We are happy to give you some tips you should bear in mind before the interview:

  • Punctuality is expected. Showing up one hour too early because you are nervous demonstrates just as poor time management as being 10 minutes late.
  • Appropriate clothing and a professional appearance make a positive first impression.
  • Stay true to yourself in the interview and don’t try to be somebody else.
  • Prepare for the conversation. It is useful to memorise some information about our company. Visit our website to find out more about our product range, our customers, our machine pool and our corporate culture.
  • You should also think about any questions you might like to ask about the job, work and training.
  • Check your application and CV for any gaps or weaknesses that need explanation. Take a moment to think why these gaps emerged.
  • Nervousness helps you keep alert before the interview and stay focussed. However, keep your cool and look forward to the interview. It is not an interrogation, it is a conversation that allows both parties to get to know each other and to check your suitability for the vacancy.

We look forward to seeing you!

Britta Ubl
Britta Ubl

Human Resources

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Bilstein & Siekermann GmbH + Co. KG
Industriestraße 1
D-54576 Hillesheim
Germany

Video conferencing

In light of the current situation, we will be happy to discuss your topics in a video conference. To arrange an appointment, please contact us and tell us what you would like to discuss at info(at)bsh-vs.com. You will receive a link to the meeting by email.

We have won awards

Awards are a mark of quality. See for yourself!

  • German Brand Award 2019
  • Innovator des Jahres 2018
  • TOP 100 2017
  • Großer Preis der Mittelstandes
  • Beste Arbeitgeber Marke 2019
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