Application & FAQ
Strong Jobs – Strong Applications
The application process raises many questions—from the right wording to perfect interview preparation. Here you’ll find important information, practical tips, and answers to frequently asked questions. Whether you’re applying for the first time or planning your next career step—we’ll support you on your way to your dream job!
Application Process
Proper PreparationApplication Tips
- First, inform yourself about TKMS and the position you are applying for.
- The cover letter should be brief and convincing—why you? About one page in length.
- The resume should be clear and well-structured—start with your most recent experience.
- Are your application documents complete?
- Final check before sending: proofread for spelling and grammar.
- The interview: gather important information and prepare for questions.
FAQProfessionals
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What development and training opportunities are available?
At TKMS, we place great importance on the personal and professional development of our employees. We offer a wide range of opportunities to continuously improve and acquire new skills - both in-person and digitally.
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What benefits and additional perks does TKMS offer employees?
- Attractive Compensation: (Above-)tariff pay according to IG Metall agreements, based on your qualifications and experience, plus numerous allowances.
- Training & Development: Extensive learning and development opportunities, both in-person and digital.
- Working Hours: A 35-hour workweek*, flexible shifts, remote work options - and overtime compensation.*Except at the Wismar location. Gradual reduction from 38 to 35 hours by 2029.
- Vacation: 30 days of annual leave plus special leave according to collective agreements.
- Health as a Foundation: We invest in your well-being with comprehensive health management and promote corporate fitness.
- Retirement Benefits: Our company pension plan secures your financial stability - even after your career.
- Mobility: Subsidy for job tickets / Germany-wide public transportation ticket.
- Work-Life Balance: Family-friendly working hours help you balance family and career.
- Starting Together: We ensure you feel comfortable and supported from day one with an optimal onboarding program to prepare you for your new role.
- Living Our Culture: We work as a team - with respect, trust, and responsibility. Our culture is characterized by openness, reliability, and the shared goal of creating safety.
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Are there flexible working models such as remote work or flexitime?
Yes, we offer a 35-hour workweek*, flexible shifts, remote work options - and overtime compensation.
*Except at the Wismar location. Gradual reduction from 38 to 35 hours by 2029. -
How does TKMS handle onboarding of new employees?
We place great importance on making you feel comfortable and supported from day one. We offer an optimal onboarding program to prepare you for your new role.
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How does TKMS support work-life balance?
We support our employees with family-friendly working time models such as flexitime, part-time, and remote work to best balance work and family. Additionally, we offer individual solutions to accommodate personal needs.
FAQApprenticeships
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What apprenticeship programs can I pursue at TKMS?
Kiel & Flintbek:
Plant mechanics
Electronics
IT specialist
Warehouse logistics specialist
Industrial clerks
Industrial mechanics
Office management clerks
Construction mechanics
Mechatronics
Technical product design
Machining mechanicsBremen & Emden:
IT specialist
Machining mechanics
Electronics for devices and systems
Industrial clerks
Technical product designWismar:
Electronics for industrial engineering
Industrial mechanics
Construction mechanics Equipment technology -
When should I apply for an apprenticeship?
New apprenticeship positions are usually posted online from the summer holidays until the end of the year for the following year.
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How does the application process for an apprenticeship work?
If your application passes the initial screening, we invite you to an applicant day. You will take an online general knowledge test and participate in a group exercise. Afterwards, we get to know each other better in an interview.
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What qualifications do I need for a commercial apprenticeship at TKMS?
You need a good intermediate or higher school diploma. You should also enjoy teamwork and be reliable.
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How long does the commercial apprenticeship at TKMS last?
The commercial apprenticeship lasts 3 years. With excellent performance, the duration can be shortened by half a year.
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What qualifications do I need for a technical apprenticeship at TKMS?
You should have technical understanding and enjoy hands-on work and new technologies such as 3D printing.
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How long does the technical apprenticeship at TKMS last?
The technical apprenticeship lasts 3.5 years. With excellent performance, the duration can be shortened by half a year.
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Is there a chance of being hired after the apprenticeship?
Our goal is to train skilled workers who can help us meet the very good order situation ahead. We generally hire based on demand and are very interested in retaining good junior staff.
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What is the apprenticeship pay?
€1,372 gross in the 1st year of apprenticeship.
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Can I start an apprenticeship after the official start date?
If places remain open or become available after the official start, a later start is possible. Check our job portal regularly to avoid missing openings.
FAQDual Studies
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What qualifications do I need for a dual study program?
You need at least a university of applied sciences entrance qualification or a general university entrance qualification - depending on the university. You should also be eager for practical experience, teamwork, and responsibility.
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What is the difference between a vocationally integrated and a practice-integrated dual study program?
In a vocationally integrated program, you earn two qualifications: an IHK vocational certificate and a bachelor’s degree. In a practice-integrated program, the focus is on the degree, supplemented by intensive practical phases at TKMS.
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What study programs does TKMS offer for dual studies?
Kiel & Flintbek:
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Mechatronics
Media Engineering
Shipbuilding & Maritime Technology
Business Informatics
Industrial Engineering International Sales & PurchasingHamburg & Wedel:
Electrical Engineering and Information Technology
Computer Engineering
Data Science
Shipbuilding & Marine Technology
Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering and Production
Industrial EngineeringBremen & Emden:
Industrial Engineering and Sustainable Development
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Computer Science, Software and Systems Engineering
Business Informatics and Sustainable IT
Technical and Applied Physics
Mechanical Engineering and DesignWismar:
Mechanical engineering
Information and electrical engineering -
How does the dual study program at TKMS work?
You alternate regularly between theory at the university and practice at TKMS. During practical phases, you work in various departments on real projects with real responsibilities.
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Do I receive compensation during the dual study program?
Yes - you receive apprenticeship pay according to the IG Metall tariff. Additional payments, holiday pay, and other benefits apply.
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Is there a chance of being hired after the dual study program?
Yes. We train for our own needs with the goal of hiring you after graduation.
FAQMilitary Personnel
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What entry opportunities are available for former soldiers?
You can apply your acquired skills at TKMS in various areas - from production and engineering to project management. We also have our own crew of experienced submarine operators. Alternatively, you can take advantage of one of our many training programs and learn a new profession.
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How can I adapt my skills to meet industry requirements?
Don’t worry! You will quickly feel comfortable in TKMS’s corporate culture. We place great importance on the personal and professional development of our employees. We offer a wide range of opportunities to continuously improve and acquire new skills - both in-person and digitally.
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Which professions and fields best match my military experience?
Your military experience is highly valued here! Particularly well-suited are roles where you can apply your knowledge of customers and products. In many cases, leadership roles such as team leader are also possible.
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Are there opportunities to connect with other former soldiers within the company?
Yes, many of our colleagues have also served in the Army, Navy, or Air Force. You will meet many former comrades here.
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Who can I send my unsolicited application to?
Due to data protection reasons, we unfortunately cannot consider unsolicited or paper applications. Please apply online via the job portal. Unsure which position fits you best? It’s best to speak with your BFD advisor. Applying to multiple positions can also be worthwhile.
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When is the right time to apply?
We recommend submitting your application at least six months before your service ends. Feel free to connect with us earlier at a BFD event.
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How is onboarding for new employees structured?
We place great importance on making you feel comfortable and supported from day one. We offer an optimal onboarding program to prepare you for your new role.
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How does TKMS support work-life balance?
We support our employees with family-friendly working time models such as flexitime, part-time, and remote work to best balance work and family.
FAQUndergraduates and Graduates
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What entry opportunities do I have after graduation?
You can start directly at TKMS - in engineering, IT, or commercial areas. Alternatively, we offer structured trainee programs or doctoral opportunities.
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Which degree programs are particularly suitable for TKMS?
