Careers for Young Professionals: Internships, Apprenticeships & Entry-Level Roles at ABB

For companies like ABB, through its global talent acquisition approach, we aim to attract young professionals across key areas including manufacturing, operations, R&D, sales, marketing, finance and information systems. We believe internships, apprenticeships, scholarships, and early talent programs are more than just a steppingstone. They’re a launchpad. #StartwithABB

Web Story

3min

2026-07-29

WHY DO COMPANIES HIRE INTERNS AND YOUNG PROFESSIONALS IN STEM AND BEYOND?

Nearly 90 percent of global organizations hire graduates or interns

(International Network of Employers and University Career Services)1

In the US, 70 percent+ of organizations expect to increase or maintain intern hiring

(National Association of Colleges and Employers)2

Youth unemployment rate remains elevated

(World Economic Forum)3

WHY COMPANIES HIRE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS WITHOUT EXPERIENCE

For students and graduates, these experiences build valuable skills, strengthen competencies, and boost confidence.⁴ Work exposure further helps them gain career clarity and motivation.⁵
Internships also open doors. They strengthen CVs and networks, and help early talent secure their first full-time job.⁴ A study conducted in the U.S. found that 62 percent of interns were offered full-time positions after completing their internship.⁶
For companies, they can benefit from new ideas, as well as strengthen future talent pipelines.⁷ Seventy-two percent of employers see internships as a key source of future hires.⁸

HOW ABB SUPPORTS EARLY TALENT IN ENGINEERING AND BEYOND

With operations in over 100 countries with 110,000 employees, ABB is committed to building a diverse pipeline of emerging professionals through a structured and comprehensive talent acquisition strategy. ABB teams actively recruit young talent across key areas – including engineering, operations, R&D, sales, marketing, finance, information systems, and more – creating meaningful career pathways that align with the company’s performance and innovation goals. Recognizing that talent needs vary by region, ABB complements its global recruitment framework with localized approaches tailored to each country's unique market dynamics and skills landscape. Together, with our employees of all generations, we help run what runs the world.

WHAT EARLY TALENT OPPORTUNITIES DOES ABB OFFER?

We recently shared how teams bring technology to life through a behind-the-scenes look at ABB’s flagship manufacturing facilities in Mebane, North Carolina. ABB colleagues on-site shared how they got into their roles and how you can explore your next step. Click "play" on the right to learn more.

At ABB, we believe early talent brings fresh perspectives and real value. That’s why they contribute from day one – solving problems, learning fast, and making an impact. And in some cases, they go on to guide and support others in return.

ABB colleagues play a big part too, mentoring and coaching the next generation, helping the organization build a strong pipeline of future leaders.

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY FOR AN ABB INTERN LOOK LIKE?

Would you like to know what it’s really like? Hear from a recent intern and a colleague who started his career as an intern, and how they help run what runs the world.

TYPES OF INTERNSHIPS AND APPRENTICESHIPS FOR STUDENTS

ABB offers opportunities to put learning into practice and start gaining experience toward a rewarding career. This is where STEM students find summer internships.

Internships, thesis worker, summer jobs and working students

ABB offers scholarships, internships (also for bachelor's or master's thesis research) and summer jobs, lasting from two months up to one or two years, in over 100 countries.

Apprenticeship programs

Available in selected countries, based on the local education system, apprenticeships combine on-the-job trainings and schooling activities - often leading to a final qualification.

Initiatives for students

From workshops and company visits to contests and short programs, there are local opportunities for students to connect.

TALENT PROGRAMS AND ENTRY LEVEL POSITIONS FOR GRADUATES AND EARLY TALENT

ABB offers graduate programs and entry level roles to give young professionals the opportunity make a real difference and shape the future for customers, the economy, and society.

ABB Discovery

This program offers rotations, training programs, mentoring, and a variety of social activities to support career development. Participants have the opportunity to explore different teams and roles, learning more as they advance. Potential roles include sales, project management, operations, lean manufacturing, supply chain, service, and many more.

R&D (Research & Development) Rotational Program

Young professionals gain hands‑on experience developing and testing new technologies that advance ABB’s research goals, while strengthening their technical, professional, and leadership skills through structured training and diverse rotations.

Entry level positions

Every year, we open hundreds of entry level roles across the globe. ABB’s dynamic work setting combines cutting-edge technology, fascinating projects and a multicultural workforce, all of which serve as an excellent springboard for the start of a career.

Local initiatives

Depending on the country, we also offer interesting opportunities for vocational school graduates, certified young professionals and more.

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION AT ABB

Inclusion is important in global engineering - and ABB recognizes this. ABB aims to build an inclusive work environment so people from all generations can come as they are and help run what runs the world. When people feel psychologically safe, they can contribute to performance and innovate faster. Engineers and employees who feel welcomed and supported solve more complex problems and stay more engaged. This is part of ABB’s structured Diversity and Inclusion framework, driven by a three pillar model of governance, inclusive leadership and culture, and partnerships. Sofia Appelgren, Founder of Mitt Liv; Brandon Spencer, President, Motion business area; Carolina Granat, Chief Human Resources Officer; and Veronica Quach, Communications Specialist (left to right), discuss generational diversity and fostering inclusion during a live forum.

READY TO START YOUR CAREER AT ABB? BUILD YOUR FUTURE WITH THE TEAM THAT RUNS WHAT RUNS THE WORLD.

Sources:

ABB is a global company committed to upholding our core values and our Code of Conduct everywhere where we operate. We strive to foster an inclusive culture while adhering to all applicable laws. Any statements, goals, policies, or practices outlined in this ABB global website only apply where legally permitted and to the extent that it does not conflict with any applicable local laws. In the event of a conflict, the relevant ABB entity will prioritize compliance with local laws over the policy.