Rolls-Royce is a global company that creates different power and propulsion systems for use on air sea and land, and as a brand is recognized for producing groundbreaking technology.
For engineering and other STEM graduates, as well as those with a business-related degree, the prestige of working at Rolls-Royce is an excellent reason for joining - and there are lots of opportunities.
These include work experience schemes, summer internships, 12-month internships, and full graduate programs, as well as graduate direct entry and opportunities for experienced professionals too.
The application process for early careers is straightforward.
Firstly, you’ll need to complete the application form, which needs all your basic contact details, information about your education, and any experience. You may also need to answer some motivational questions which will allow you to demonstrate why you have chosen to apply to Rolls-Royce in particular.
If your application meets the basic criteria, you’ll be asked to complete some aptitude tests online. These include:
Some roles may require numerical reasoning and verbal reasoning too.
Following this is the Rolls-Royce Assessment Center.
Why does Rolls Royce use assessment centers?
The Rolls-Royce Assessment Center is used by the recruitment team as an opportunity to get to know each candidate and see how they deal with work-related situations in terms of their communication, teamwork, leadership, and other soft skills.
Candidates are given different exercises to complete, and the recruiters are there to see how well they cope with the different challenges.
It is also a good opportunity for candidates to meet and network with their peers, as well as current staff, managers, and directors. They can get an idea of what it would be like to work at Rolls-Royce and see if this is the job for them.
What skills is Rolls Royce looking for?
Rolls-Royce is focused on sustainability as a company, and making innovation and technology both safer and cleaner.
As part of their recruitment process, they are looking for the below key competencies:
- Integrity
- Innovation
- Reliability
Each job role is slightly different, and graduate opportunities are available throughout several different departments, such as:
- Civil Aerospace
- Defense
- Electrical
- Group IT
- Group Business Services
- Submarines
Each business area will require different skill sets and qualifications, and these can be found in the job description - so it is a good idea to check and see what they are before you apply so that you can demonstrate that you have the aptitudes and competencies that they are looking for throughout your application.
Rolls Royce assessment center format
There are several different types of assessment center exercises that you could face, and the format of the day might differ depending on the role or business area that you have applied for. Some of the activities you will be expected to complete include:
Rolls Royce written exercise
In the written exercise section, you will be given a case study and a brief, and you will be expected to read the information and use it to create a written report.
This is an individual exercise and it is timed, so it is important that you can comprehend the information that you are given quickly, and complete the writing efficiently and accurately.
You are being assessed on your analytical and problem-solving skills as well as spelling, grammar, and writing structure.
Rolls Royce group case study
In the group exercise, you will be presented with another case study - except this time you have to brainstorm and problem-solve as a team rather than individually.
In this exercise, you need to collaborate and listen, ensuring that everyone gets the opportunity to speak and have their voice heard. You need to demonstrate excellent teamwork - and leadership when it is needed - to the recruitment team, and you need to work together to get the right answer.
Rolls Royce presentation
Giving a formal presentation on any subject can be nerve-wracking, and in the Rolls-Royce Assessment Center, you will not have much time to prepare.
In this exercise, you need to present your findings on the case study, as well as your reasons for choosing the particular course of action. You will also need to be prepared to answer questions about the case study and your background research, as well as defend your strategy.
This is excellent preparation for work that you might do in the future, and an excellent demonstration of your confidence, leadership, negotiation, and other interpersonal skills.
Tips for passing the Rolls Royce assessment center
1. Research
The more you know about Rolls-Royce as a company, the role you have applied for, and the wider industry, the better prepared you will be to answer questions and demonstrate that you are passionate about the company.
There is plenty of information available on the Rolls-Royce careers page, and you will find even more detail in the job description.
2. Demonstrate your capabilities
By the time you have reached the Rolls-Royce Assessment Center, you will already have passed several stages of the application process - now you just need to continue showing the recruiters that you have what it takes to be successful. Remember the soft skills they want to see and try to demonstrate them throughout the day.
3. Arrive early
Commuting and traveling to an unfamiliar place can be time-consuming and subject to delays, so make sure that you plan your route ahead of time so that you don’t get caught out. Arriving late will make you feel flustered and it could harm your chances of landing that dream job.
4. Presentation is everything
The way you present yourself at the Rolls-Royce Assessment Center is important. If there are any special clothing requirements that you might need (i.e closed toed shoes for safety), then the recruiters will let you know beforehand, but either way, remember that this is probably the first time that the recruiters and the management team will be meeting you in person so you want to make a good impression.
5. Be yourself
You already know that you match the skills and competencies of the role because you have been demonstrating them as you have been going through the application process - now you just need to continue doing that. Be genuine and be yourself so the recruiters can see you are the right person for the role.