Growing and learning together
Do you want to apply your knowledge and skills in a leading automotive industry company? We are looking for young, talented employees to contribute their expertise to our enterprise. Let’s grow and learn together. At the ZKW Group, you have the opportunity to enter the professional world through internships, or complete your Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. with our support.
Trainees are our future!
Stefanie Appesbacher
Personell & Organizational Development
Apprenticeship – A look into your future at ZKW
We develop and produce lighting and headlight systems as well as electronic components for automotive manufacturers all over the world. We focus on front lighting for premium segment vehicles – in addition, we produce fog lights, daytime driving light modules, front lights, and small products light blinkers, entryway, license plate, and various interior lights.
As an OEM supplier, ZKW works closely with development centers in the automotive industry so we can continue offering our customers innovative, customized products like halogen, xenon, or LED headlights.
First Wieselburg, then the world
Our motivated, qualified employees work successfully – concentrating on the lighting technology of the future. Many of them learned their trade at ZKW, and prove their abilities with us day by day.
We promote young professionals today so we can give them major responsibilities tomorrow – that’s our motto. Anyone who trains at ZKW will have qualified trainers at their side, receiving systematic support and advising right from the start. This is how we transmit learning content based on students’ individual needs.
We provide most training at our main plant in Wieselburg. Even there, trainees take part in complex and diverse processes throughout the broad and diverse company. Only training for the process technology apprenticeship will take place for the first time at our Lower Austrian electronics site in Wiener Neustadt from the 2022 school year. Once they have their diplomas in hand, the whole world of ZKW is open to them – both in Austria and around the globe.
Training professions
Good employees are in demand
A passion for technology, a strong team spirit, and successful experiences – trainees can find all this and much more at ZKW. Curious? Then learn more about the occupational training we offer in both technical and non-technical fields here.
Basic information on training at ZKW
We offer training at two locations – in the company and in our vocational school. Trainees spend around 80 percent of their time in the company, and the rest of their time is spent on theoretical and practical training in our vocational school. Training at ZKW takes three to four years, depending on the chosen profession.
Dual profession
Electrical engineering and metals technology
Apprenticeship period
Four years
Vocational school
Amstetten
Requirements
- Pleasure in the technical work
- good technical understanding
- Logic
- accuracy
- good spatial understanding
Training content
- Set up, maintain, and repair building technology and systems, as well as electronic equipment, devices, and machines
- Find and correct errors and faults in systems, electrical equipment, devices, and machines
- Set up, restore, and document protective measures to safeguard against personal injury and property damage
- Expand and optimize electrical installations in factory buildings
- Manufacture relevant components and workpieces in consideration of specified fit standards
- Complete CAD sketches
- Operate and program computer-supported CNC tooling machines
- Select, purchase, and inspect materials
- Manufacture, assemble, attach, and mount components, machines, and equipment – including in conjunction with hydraulic, mechanical, and pneumatic systems
- Record and document technical data on work processes and results
- Work in consideration of relevant norms, environmental and quality standards, and safety regulations
Work areas and duties
While training in the dual profession of electrical / systems and operating technology and metals technician / mechanical engineer, trainees will learn how to manufacture machine parts and how to assemble, commission, maintain, and repair machines and systems. They will produce and maintain specialized machines to manufacture headlight systems, as well as other machinery. Trainees in the dual profession also have numerous organizational duties. They determine work steps, work materials, and working methods based on technical documents and blueprints, and plan and control work processes.
In addition, they mount, install, maintain, and repair electrical systems, machines, and devices such as injection molding machines. Trainees rebuild electrical systems and expand them as needed. They service electrical machines used in company operations and maintain electrical equipment. Trainees in the dual profession are responsible for electrical and electronic work on company systems. This work relates to generators, distributor systems, and electric drives.
In order to work on such diverse technical equipment, trainees must be able to read and prepare switching and wiring diagrams and other technical drafts. In case of errors, they systematically look for causes and complete repairs.
Metal technology / Mechanical engineering technology
Apprenticeship period
three and a half years
Vocational school
Amstetten
Requirements
- technical understanding
- spatial imagination
- accurate, clean and solution-oriented work
- enjoy working with metal materials
Training content
- Operating, maintaining and rebuilding machines
- Reading, application and preparation of sketches and drawings
- Making detachable (e.g. screws) and non-detachable (e.g. welding) connections
- Working under safety and environmental regulations
- Manufacturing of various components and shaft connections
- Programming and operating CNC machine tools
- Knowledge of materials and auxiliary materials with their properties and processing possibilities
Work areas and duties
The tasks of metal technicians include the manufacture, assembly, repair and maintenance of machines and equipment.
They assemble hydraulic, pneumatic and mechanical machine components and are responsible for measuring and testing them (e.g. slide gauge). Their tasks also include procuring and identifying the necessary materials.
Metal technology / toolmaking technology
Apprenticeship period
three and a half years
Vocational school
Neunkirchen
Requirements
- technical understanding
- quick comprehension
- accuracy
Training content
- Machining mechanical parts, assembling mechanical assemblies and components
- Create and modify production programs for computer-aided (CNC) machines
- Manufacture, test, commission and maintain cutting, punching and forming tools
- Read and apply technical documentation
- Determine work steps, means and methods
Work areas and duties
Toolmaking technicians manufacture the cutting tools, punching tools and forming tools for processing machines, as well as the devices used to fasten workpieces and tools. This also includes the maintenance and repair of these tools. They machine metals using techniques such as measuring, scribing, filing, grinding, sawing, drilling, reaming, threading, riveting and chiseling, straightening and bending, and polishing. They are also proficient in gluing, soldering and brazing, scraping and making simple springs.
Other techniques used by toolmaking technicians include longitudinal turning and facing, milling, eroding and electric welding. Toolmaking technicians produce fits and relevant workpieces, taking into account the prescribed fit standards. In doing so, they apply precision machining techniques.
When maintaining and repairing machine tools and dies, tool and die technicians systematically search for errors and malfunctions, then isolate and eventually correct them. Tool and die technicians read blueprints and manufacturing drawings or make them themselves. They also create and modify manufacturing programs for computer-aided CNC machine tools.
Metal technology / Machining technology
Apprenticeship period
three and a half years
Vocational school
Neunkirchen
Requirements
- technical understanding
- quick comprehension
- accuracy
Training content
- Setting up, commissioning and operating machine tools and production systems for machining operations
- Manufacturing and machining simple and complex components on conventional and (CNC) machine tools
- Production or reading of plans and production drawings
- Maintenance and repair of machine tools
- Knowledge of composite materials, their properties, machining, processing and application possibilities
Work areas and duties
Machinists produce simple and complex components on conventional and (CNC) machine tools by turning, milling, drilling, countersinking, reaming, threading and grinding. Their tasks also include machining the components using the aforementioned techniques. Furthermore, they learn job-specific knowledge of heat treatment and hardness testing methods and master the production of adhesive and press connections.
When maintaining and repairing machine tools, metal cutting technicians look for faults and malfunctions, then isolate them and finally rectify them.
Machining technicians read plans and production drawings or produce them themselves. They also create and modify production programs for computer-aided CNC machine tools.
Design Tooling Technology
Apprenticeship period
four years
Vocational school
Linz
Requirements
- Accuracy
- Orderliness
- Thoroughness
- Creativity
- teamwork
- technical understanding
Training content
- Knowledge of the materials and auxiliary materials to be used, their properties as well as their processing
- Design activity, mostly on computerized systems (CAD system such as CATIA V5 or Siemens NX)
- Preparation of technical product specifications (tolerances, fits, surface finish, material specifications, heat treatment specifications)
- Knowledge of the basics of standardization
Work areas and duties
In the apprenticeship as a toolmaking designer at ZKW, students pass through various specialist areas in order to achieve the best possible level of training for this field. The main focus of the training is on the design of headlamp components. The predominant proportion of geometrically demanding plastic components in headlights requires a high level of basic technical understanding and CAD (computer-aided design) skills.
In the first few months, the training focus is therefore on learning CAD skills coupled with initial simple plastic design guidelines. After completion of this training phase, the first simple changes can be made to the virtual 3D model of existing components. In the later course of the training, further specialist departments are passed through in order to further deepen the required skills.
Industrial clerk
Apprenticeship period
Three years
Vocational school
Waldegg
Requirements
- accurate working
- teamwork
- interested in
commercial activities - independence
Training content
- Understanding company and commercial work processes
- Administrative work and correspondence
- Obtain and process offers and orders
- Basic skills in corporate accounting in the areas of finances, calculations, payroll accounting, and bookkeeping
- Understanding the company’s overall organizational structure
- Understanding duties and responsibilities in the different areas of the company
Work areas and duties
Industrial clerks complete office, administrative, and organizational duties in industrial companies in all economic sectors. They work, for instance, in purchasing, materials management, accounting, the HR area, sales, or marketing. Industrial clerks working in purchasing provide the raw, auxiliary, and operating materials needed for industrial production processes. Industrial clerks working in sales process customer orders and customer inquiries.
In the warehouse, industrial clerks control incoming and outgoing goods and materials, issue warehouse receipt slips, and maintain inventory lists and card files, usually with IT supported applications. Industrial clerks working in HR calculate wages and salaries for employees working at the company.
Plastics engineer
Apprenticeship period
four years
Vocational school
Steyr
Requirements
- Interest in technology and automation
- analytic capability of thinking
- logic
- technical understanding
Training content
- Setting up, programming and operating high-tech equipment (injection molding machines)
- Carrying out production releases at the start of production
- Carrying out mold sampling with subsequent recording and documentation of technical data on the work sequence, work results and process parameters
- Reading and applying shop drawings and technical documentation
- Determining work steps, work equipment, work methods and instructing production personnel in accordance with work, testing and safety instructions
Work areas and duties
Objects made of plastic are of great importance in modern technology, for example in the household, leisure or in the automotive sector. They are manufactured using technically sophisticated, computer-controlled, semi- and fully-automatic injection molding machines and systems. Plastics technicians know the properties of the materials to be processed and their specific areas of application. They set up the equipment for the respective production run, optimize the production process, monitor the quality of the products and take appropriate action in the event of malfunctions.
Information technology (operating technology and systems engineering)
Apprenticeship period
Four years
Vocational school
Pöchlarn
Requirements
- technical understanding
- mathematical-calculative ability
- logical-analytical thinking
- Language skills
Training content
- Recording the needs (including security requirements) of the customer or user and transferring them to a network topology
- Designing the appropriate network infrastructure, installing and configuring the network components
- Selecting and commissioning new network components
- Configuring server systems and their basic services, testing the configuration
- Maintaining and administering server systems
- Creating user manuals and documenting all work performed and tests in accordance with company-specific quality management
- Informing, advising, supporting and, if necessary, training customers and users as well as offering operational services.
Work areas and duties
Information technologists in the field of technology are – to put it simply – computer technicians, whereby their field of activity can extend to all devices of “information and communication technology” (abbreviated to “IT”). This primarily includes computers of all types (personal computers or “PCs”, servers and workstations in networks, laptops/notebooks, etc.), auxiliary or peripheral devices (printers, scanners, copiers, input devices such as mice and keyboards), and networks (connecting lines or devices for wireless connection, so-called “wireless networks”).
The most important tasks of information technologists in the field of technology are the assembly of IT equipment, the installation and setup of new IT equipment, the installation of software (operating systems, office programs – these are programs for word processing, spreadsheets, presentation creation or data entry, etc.), the consultation and training of users, the continuous maintenance of equipment and software (installation of improved versions of programs, so-called “updates”) as well as the repair of defective equipment and lines or the replacement of defective individual parts (e.g. computer hard drives).
Process engineering
Apprenticeship period
three and a half years
Vocational school
Neunkirchen
Requirements
- interest in technology and automation
- Technical understanding
- Logical-analytical thinking
- Pleasure in organizational activities
Training content
- Operating and monitoring workflows of production machines as well as recognizing and eliminating simple malfunctions in the production process
- Programming and setting computer-controlled machines and systems
- Controlling and monitoring production processes
- Reading and applying technical documents, e.g. sketches, drawings, work instructions, work plans, assembly layouts, product control plans, operating instructions, maintenance plans, maintenance plans, circuit diagrams
- conversion and implementation of specified work steps, means and methods
- Selection, procurement, inspection and storage of required materials (raw materials, additives and auxiliary materials)
- Planning the use of tools, devices and technical production aids, in particular for computer-aided manufacturing machines and systems
- Setting up, retooling, loading, starting up and emptying production facilities
- Use of company-specific information and communication technologies
- Monitoring and ensuring production quality
- Maintenance of tools, machines and equipment
Work areas and duties
Optimal production processes are the heart of production at ZKW Elektronik GmbH. Process technicians ensure that these very processes are constantly improved by controlling, monitoring and repairing these machines, as well as operating, maintaining and optimizing the associated computer systems.
With this specialized knowledge, process engineers become an irreplaceable element within any manufacturing process. They are experts who not only systematically control production processes and investigate their weak points, but also document and continuously improve them. They not only look at the manufacturing section of the overall production, but as higher-level experts also keep an eye on the processes in logistics and quality control.
Trial apprenticeship
If you are still unsure which apprenticeship best fits your skills and interests – then simply come to our company and do a “trial apprenticeship”.
This first contact with your desired profession directly supports you in comparing your personal career ideas with the professional reality on site. This way, you can quickly and easily find your suitable apprenticeship position and train to become a highly qualified specialist.
Send us your online application for your desired trial day!
Apprenticeship with Matura
Education with added value
The professional and personal development of our apprentices is very important to us – we support both to the best of our ability. One offer in this context is the apprenticeship with Matura – in this way we support the combination of practical knowledge with theoretical knowledge. Who takes this route gains the best possible qualifications.
The combination of apprenticeship and Matura makes it possible for our apprentices to learn their dream job, earn their own money in the process, and yet not have to miss out on the Matura. With their degree in their pocket, they have access to all fields of study – and their career opportunities at ZKW itself are greatly increased.
This is how it works
We offer the apprenticeship with Matura starting in the second year of apprenticeship; determined apprentices can thus take the Berufsreifeprüfung during their apprenticeship. The courses are taught in German, English and Mathematics – at ZKW and mainly during working hours.
We are happy to inform you about all details of the apprenticeship with Matura in a personal conversation.
I look forward to updating you on our development programs.
Ulrika Mücke
Human Resources Management
Students and interested people pay attention.
At ZKW Group, you have the opportunity to enter internships in the professional world or to complete your Bachelor, Diploma or Master’s thesis with our support.
Challenging duties are waiting for YOU
We offer you the opportunity to obtain deep insight into work processes at an innovative and forward-thinking industry leader in the automotive industry through a professional internship. You will take on responsibility and duties, and work independently at your own work station. We give you the space to discover your commitment, your ambition, and your personal initiative. Challenging duties are waiting for you, and you’ll need excellent communication skills and a team spirit to handle them.
We generally offer trainee positions in all technical areas, most of which can serve as a jumping off point for a career with our company later on.
Application and current jobs
You can find current available internships in our job portal You are also welcome to send us a speculative application with a cover letter, CV, and references.
The future of the industry in your hands?
At ZKW, we’re very interested in your suggested topics for your thesis, and we’re also happy to work with you to find forward-thinking and practical topics. You will be assigned a personal advisor while writing your Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. thesis with us, and you will be integrated into company processes through your internship.
We want your final thesis to help shape the future of our industry. That’s why we want to grow and perform alongside you.
Application and current jobs
You can find current available internships in our job portal You are also welcome to send us a speculative application with a cover letter, CV, and references.
Connected to research and training
Collaboration with schools, vocational colleges, and universities plays an important role in ZKW HR. These are just some of the services we offer:
- Company tours for high school and university students
- Holiday and professional internships
- Company presentations
- Support in writing Bachelor’s, Master’s, and doctoral theses
Company shuttle
Cooperation with the IAESTE student organization, which comes to ZKW headquarters for a company visit each year with students from technical universities (TU Wien, JKU Linz). Students receive intensive insight into research and & development as well as production.
ZKW cooperates with the following educational institutions:
Universities
- Johannes Kepler Universität Linz
- Montanuniversität Leoben
- Technische Universität Wien
Vocational colleges
- FH Steyr
- FH Technikum Wien
- FH Wels
- FH Wiener Neustadt
Secondary schools
- HTL St. Pölten
- HTL Steyr
- HTL Waidhofen/Ybbs
Insight for high school and university students
Choosing a career, and the company where you want to do your training and possibly work later on – these are the kinds of decisions that lay the groundwork for personal success.
To help young people make these decisions, ZKW offers excursions for secondary school classes and university student groups. Participants get to know the company, its employees, and their everyday work during company tours.
Target audiences
- General secondary school (above 3rd class)
- Classes from polytechnical schools in Wieselburg and Wr. Neustadt
- Classes from technical vocational schools and higher technical institutions
- Student groups from vocational schools and universities with a technical focus
When are excursions available: year-round, with advance registration
How long do company tours last: around three hours
Application and current jobs
You can find current available internships in our job portal You are also welcome to send us a speculative application with a cover letter, CV, and references.
Explore careers and earn money
Are you a secondary school or university student who wants to earn money over the summer or complete a required internship?
ZKW offers you the opportunity to do so in a variety of departments. You can start a position with us in commercial or technical areas or in production – from July to September.
Application
- When? Beginning of September – end of February
- How? Applications only accepted online
- What? Application should include a cover letter, CV, and most recent grades
Further contents
ZKW for you
ZKW offerings for our employees; our social benefits and the way we work at ZKW.
Competence Training Center
Anyone who expects extraordinary performance needs extraordinarily well qualified employees – people who enjoy taking on a high level of responsibility and want to continue learning throughout their lives. We believe education and continued training for our employees is an indispensable investment in the future of our company.
The application process at ZKW
We cannot do the application for you. But we will explain to you what you are looking for in the application process for a position at the ZKW Group.
Careers abroad
We speak a lot of languages at the ZKW Group. The world’s fastest-growing company in the automotive industry offers its employees a wide range of opportunities to make a career abroad – from lower Austria to Mexico or Manchuria.