April - Graduate Profile

Job role: Technologist

Location: Harburg Refinery Hamburg

What studied: Chemical Engineering BSc. and Chemistry MSc. 

University: University California Berkeley BSc. then Universität Siegen MSc

Date joined Shell:2007

Why did you choose Shell?

Shell captured my interest for their competence in maintaining and delivering high quality products in an environmentally conscious way.  They also give successful graduates a place to prove themselves, with real scope to develop all sorts of projects. 

What is your current job?

I work as a Technologist at the Harburg Refinery in Hamburg.

How would you describe a typical day?

My typical day involves working on projects whereby I design new ways to make the refining process more efficient, safer, and more environmentally friendly.   With new environmental regulations, we must always have our current equipment up-to-date with the refining process.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

The most interesting aspect of my job is watching my designs become a reality. There's nothing more rewarding than being involved in a refining process project, and then seeing it come to life to really make a difference. That's the part I really love. Technologists are always involved with the development of future refining designs. We put all our efforts into problem solving, so when my ideas are actually implemented, it gives me such a buzz!

Does your job at Shell meet with your expectations?

My job is pretty much as I expected it to be. Which is not a bad thing. In fact, it's great!

It is a mixture of working out of the office as well as being outside in the refinery. You have the opportunity to meet many people from various backgrounds and Shell experiences. Shell also offers their own training courses in where you are brought up to date with your job-training as well as soft skills. Networking and communication are very much key factors in the Shell culture.  

Is there something you didn’t expect from Shell but which exceeded your expectations?

Shell has exceeded my expectations with its global and diverse organisation. I didn't expect that my very first assignment to be in another country. It just goes to show that Shell does not look at how many years you have worked with the company before the chance of working abroad.

They are more concerned with fitting the right people in the right place.

How do see your next role and future career opportunities at Shell?

I am not limited to a particular field. In fact, from my experience it seems that Shell encourages their employees who are interested to pursue other new field areas. In a global company such as Shell, anything is possible. There is so much potential for personal growth and new exciting challenges.

What would be your advice to someone thinking of applying to Shell?

My advice to Shell applicants is to just be yourself. Although an important criteria for a Shell Graduate is to have strong competence in your studies, Shell also looks for all types of people from various backgrounds, cultures and experiences.

What are your reasons for staying with Shell?

My reasons for joining Shell were more to do with their good reputation, and association with quality and delivery.  There is so much more to learn both professionally and personally from a company like Shell. At Shell, I can improve myself professionally, and push the company forward at the same time.