When you think of luxury vehicles, BMW is probably one of the first brands that comes to mind. These German cars are among the most well known in the world, and in addition to dealerships, it maintains factories in the U.S., Germany and 12 other countries. If you’re a fan of the brand and what it does, you might even be considering a career with this company. Here’s what it’s like to work for BMW.

Starts Like Any Other Job

Getting started in a career with BMW is similar to most other jobs. You brush up your resume, send in your application and wait until you get a call for an interview. Seems pretty straightforward, right?

If BMW decided to offer you a job, you’d likely find yourself meeting with leadership at your local BMW headquarters. Depending on where you’re located, that could be an office, a factory or a dealership. This allows you to talk to your future bosses about your goals, experience and what you’re hoping to get out of your career.

Once You Get the Job

Once you accept a job offer at BMW, your path will depend greatly on your experience and the career you’ve chosen. If you’re working in one of the brand’s assembly plants, you can expect your first few weeks to be filled with technical training to learn the ins and outs of putting together one of the brand’s iconic cars. There are all sorts of classes to take to expand your knowledge base and improve your promotability. 

In rare cases, if you excel in your chosen field, you may get the opportunity to transfer to one of the brand’s home bases. There is even a possibility that you could be sent to Germany to work at the company’s first factory. 

BMW prides itself on its supportive leadership. If you’re interested in working for one of the most famous automotive brands in the world, it’s a great opportunity. 

A Great Company — but Not the Best

While BMW might be one of the best automotive brands to work for in the United States — and possibly the world — it isn’t the best. In the U.S., that title belongs to Ford, easily one of the most well-known domestic companies. If you want to work in an assembly plant for BMW, you’re limited to Spartanburg, South Carolina. Ford, on the other hand, has plants and facilities spread out across the country.

That’s not to discourage you from seeking out a career with BMW. Both brands have their pros and cons, but if you adore BMW’s cars and marvel at its engineering prowess, you likely won’t be happy at any other company. 

Working for BMW

Whether you enjoy working in the automotive sector or just love the idea of being able to include BMW on your resume, now is as good a time as ever to seek a career with the iconic company. Working for a brand you love can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.