Shell Careers: Graduate Scheme/Job Application/Assessment Prep

Shell is a highly profitable oil company with job positions available worldwide.

As such, Shell job applications receive a lot of interest and the recruitment process is incredibly competitive.

For entry-level roles, the Shell Graduate Scheme is a great way to start your career and get a foot in the door of a reputable company.

However, as each position receives thousands of applications, a standout application is essential.

This article will help you understand the recruitment assessments and provide tips on how to pass the application process.

The Shell Graduate Scheme

The Shell Graduate Scheme is a program designed to attract and develop talented individuals who have recently graduated or are in the early stages of their professional careers.

It provides a structured framework for graduates to gain valuable work experience and develop the skills necessary to succeed in the energy industry.

Working in the Shell Graduate Scheme offers a platform for professional growth, exposure to global energy challenges, and the opportunity to make a positive impact within a leading energy company.

It provides a supportive environment for graduates to develop their skills, expand their network, and kick-start their careers in the energy industry.

The Shell Graduate Scheme typically spans two to three years and offers opportunities in various areas of Shell's operations, including:

• Engineering
• Finance
• Marketing
• Supply chain management
• Mechanical engineering
• Petroleum engineering
• Research and development
• Safety and environment

The specific roles and responsibilities will depend on the graduate's area of specialization and the business needs at the time.

Here are some key aspects of working in the Shell Graduate Scheme:

Rotational Assignments

During their Shell employment, graduates are often assigned to different departments or projects, allowing them to gain exposure to various aspects of the company's operations.

This rotation helps in developing a well-rounded understanding of the business and building a diverse skill set.

Training and Development

Shell invests in the professional development of its graduates. Throughout the scheme, participants have access to a range of training programs, workshops, and learning resources.

These initiatives aim to enhance technical knowledge, leadership skills, and business insight.

Mentoring and Support

During their Shell employment, Graduates are typically assigned a mentor who is an experienced professional within the company.

Mentors provide guidance, support, and advice to help graduates navigate their career paths and make the most of their time at Shell.

Challenging Projects

Graduates often have the opportunity to work on challenging and impactful projects from the start.

This allows them to contribute to real-world business initiatives, solve complex problems, and make a meaningful impact within the organization.

International Opportunities

Shell is a global company with operations in numerous countries, so you don’t have to limit yourself to Shell US careers.

Depending on the specific program and business needs, there may be opportunities for graduates to work in different locations around the world.

This international exposure can provide valuable cross-cultural experiences and broaden perspectives.

Collaborative Work Environment

Shell emphasizes teamwork and collaboration. Graduates work alongside experienced professionals and have the chance to collaborate with colleagues from diverse backgrounds.

Career Progression

The Shell Graduate Scheme is designed to provide a solid foundation for long-term career growth within the company.

Upon successful completion of the scheme, graduates may be offered permanent positions or continue on further development programs to advance their careers within Shell.

Salary and Employee Benefits

All Shell graduate employees receive a competitive salary and an employee benefits package depending on the location and role.

What Are the Other Shell Careers Opportunities?

For those looking for non-graduate-scheme positions, there is a wide range of Shell jobs across various functions and disciplines.

The following are just a few examples, and there are many more positions available at Shell across functions like operations, logistics, legal, communications, health and safety, Shell gas station careers, and more.

Engineering

This includes mechanical, chemical, electrical, civil, and petroleum engineering.

These engineers work on projects related to exploration, production, refining, and distribution of oil and gas.

They also contribute to research and development efforts in areas such as renewable energy and low-carbon technologies.

Geoscience

Geoscientists at Shell play a crucial role in the exploration and production of hydrocarbons.

They use advanced technologies and data analysis to identify and assess potential oil and gas reserves, analyze subsurface structures, and optimize drilling operations.

Finance

This Includes financial planning and analysis, accounting, tax, treasury, and risk management.

These professionals support business decisions, manage financial operations, ensure compliance with regulations, and provide strategic financial insights.

Commercial and Marketing

Shell's commercial and marketing teams are responsible for managing the company's customer relationships, developing marketing strategies, and maximizing the value of Shell's products and services.

This includes activities such as sales, trading, market analysis, supply chain management, and business development.

Information Technology

IT professionals at Shell work on a wide range of technology initiatives, including cybersecurity, data analytics, software development, infrastructure management, and digital transformation.

They play a critical role in enabling business operations and driving innovation within the company.

Human Resources

Shell's HR professionals focus on talent acquisition, employee development, performance management, compensation and benefits, diversity and inclusion, and other aspects of people management.

They help create a positive work environment and support the growth and well-being of Shell employees.

Sustainability and Environmental Affairs

With a focus on transitioning to a lower-carbon future, Shell has dedicated Shell energy careers working on sustainability and environmental initiatives.

These professionals contribute to the development and implementation of strategies related to renewable energy, carbon capture and storage, energy efficiency, and environmental impact reduction.

How to Apply for Shell Careers

To apply for Shell careers, you can follow these steps:

1. Go to the official Shell Careers website to explore job opportunities and learn more about the company.

2. Use the search function to find job openings that match your skills, interests, and location preferences. You can search by job title, keyword, location, and other criteria.

3. Click on the job titles to access detailed job descriptions, including responsibilities, requirements, and desired qualifications. Read these descriptions carefully to ensure you meet the criteria and have the necessary skills and experience.

4. If you haven't already done so, create an account on the Shell Careers website. This will allow you to save job searches, set up job alerts, and submit applications.

5. Fill out your personal details, educational background, work experience, and other relevant information in your profile. Make sure to provide accurate and up-to-date information.

6. Once you have found a suitable job opening, click on the ‘Apply’ button to start the application process. You will be prompted to review your profile information and submit any additional documents or attachments, such as your resume and a cover letter.

The application and recruitment process for the Shell Graduate Scheme typically involves several stages.

While the specific details may vary based on the location and business area, here is a general overview of the process:

Shell Graduate Scheme Application Tips

Below are some tips to help you succeed in the Shell careers Graduate Scheme application process:

Research Shell

Take the time to thoroughly research Shell as a company. Understand its values, operations, industry challenges, and recent initiatives.

This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and align your application and interview responses with Shell's objectives.

One key value you must know and understand is the CAR philosophy. It stands for Control, Assess, and Reduce.

It is a framework used by Shell to manage risks and improve safety performance in its operations.

The CAR philosophy emphasizes proactive risk management and the continuous improvement of safety standards.

Tailor Your Application

Customize your application to highlight relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that align with the specific role and Shell's requirements.

Focus on showcasing your technical knowledge, leadership potential, teamwork abilities, and your passion for the energy industry.

Demonstrate Your Motivation

Clearly express your motivation for wanting to start a career at Shell and explain why you are interested in working for Shell.

Highlight your career aspirations, your desire to make a positive impact in the energy sector, and how you believe Shell can help you achieve your goals.

Highlight Transferable Skills

Even if you don't have direct experience in the energy industry, emphasize your transferable skills and how they can be valuable in a Shell context.

Highlight skills such as problem-solving, adaptability, communication, teamwork, and leadership that are relevant across various disciplines.

How to Prepare for the Shell Assessment

To prepare for the Shell Assessments, here are some tips:

Review the Role Requirements

Revisit the specific requirements and responsibilities of the role you have applied for.

Consider the skills, knowledge, and experiences that are relevant to the role and think about how you can showcase them.

Prepare for Presentations

You will be asked to prepare and deliver a presentation in your final assessment.

Prepare in advance by selecting a topic similar to your case study and structuring your presentation.

Practice delivering it in a clear and engaging manner, ensuring you convey your message effectively and answer any questions confidently.

The topic you choose might not be correct, but at least you would have familiarized yourself with the process.

For insight into possible topics, explore forums such as Reddit.

Understand the Online Assessment Format

Familiarize yourself with the format of the online assessment.

It may include various types of question, such as numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, and situational judgement tests. Understand the time limit, number of questions, and any specific instructions provided.

Complete Online Practice Tests

Take advantage of online resources that offer sample assessments similar to the ones used by Shell.

Practice these assessments to become familiar with the question types and improve your speed and accuracy. Pay attention to areas where you may need improvement, such as data interpretation or critical thinking.

Brush Up on Numerical and Verbal Skills

The numerical and verbal reasoning tests are common components of online assessments. Review basic math concepts, such as percentages, ratios, and data analysis.

For verbal reasoning, practice reading and comprehending passages quickly, identifying key information, and drawing logical conclusions.

Time Management

Time management is crucial during online assessments. Practice working through questions efficiently within the given time constraints. Develop strategies to prioritize and tackle questions effectively, ensuring that you allocate enough time to each section.

Simulate the actual assessment conditions by timing your practice sessions. This will help you get accustomed to working within the time limits and improve your efficiency.

Stay Calm and Composed

The assessments can be intense, especially the final live assessment. But it's important to remain calm and composed throughout the activities.

Practice stress-management techniques, such as deep breathing and positive self-talk, to stay focused and present in the moment.

Remember that the assessors are interested in seeing your authentic self and how you handle challenges.

Shell Graduate Scheme Interview Tips

Remember Shell’s Values and the Role You Have Applied For

This knowledge will demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and help you tailor your responses to align with Shell careers’ objectives.

Prepare Behavioral-Based Responses

Shell often uses behavioral-based interviewing techniques, which involve asking questions about past experiences to gauge how you have demonstrated specific competencies.

Prepare examples from your academic, professional, or extracurricular experiences that showcase your skills, achievements, and problem-solving abilities.

Structure your responses using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to provide a clear and concise narrative.

Showcase Your Teamwork Abilities

Shell values candidates who can work effectively in teams. Be prepared to discuss instances where you collaborated with others, resolved conflicts, and achieved collective goals. Highlight your role in achieving team success and the outcomes you delivered.

Prepare Thoughtful Questions

Research Shell's business, recent developments, and industry trends so that you can ask insightful questions during the interview.

This demonstrates your genuine interest and engagement. Ask about the team dynamics, future opportunities, and how the role contributes to Shell's strategic objectives.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Conduct mock interviews with a friend or family member, or use online resources to practice answering common interview questions.

Practice articulating your responses clearly and managing positive body language.

The more you practice, the more comfortable and prepared you will feel during the actual interview.

Dress Up for the Role

Securing one of the many Shell energy careers is a huge accomplishment, especially as the recruitment process is so competitive.

Dressing the part, even for virtual interviews creates a great impression.

In addition to all the above, remember to utilize the fact that all assessments are virtual.

This means you can have as many resources and notes around your laptop or computer as you need.

Take advantage of this by writing prompts, reminders and positive affirmations on sticky notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Starting your career on the Shell Graduate Scheme will help you develop all the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in your chosen field.

However, the program is highly competitive, and you will need to thoroughly prepare for each stage.

While working through the application stages, always remember to relate everything back to Shell’s values, mission, and culture.