An international, paid corporate fellowship is opening its doors for the 2026 cohort, offering US-based graduates a rare chance to begin their global careers at the heart of Europe. The 1-Year Fellowship at Hilti Group Headquarters is a fully structured, paid international fellowship designed for early-career graduates who want hands-on professional experience, cultural immersion, and long-term career growth within a global company.
This opportunity is specifically aimed at recent graduates based in the United States who are ready to spend over a year in Europe, combining language training in Germany with a full-time professional fellowship in Liechtenstein. The program officially launches in summer 2026 and runs through August 2027.
What This Fellowship Offers?
Selected Fellows begin their journey with an intensive language and cultural exchange program in Cologne, Germany, lasting one to two months depending on their German proficiency. After this immersion phase, Fellows relocate to Schaan, Liechtenstein, to start a 12-month paid fellowship at Hilti’s international headquarters.
During the fellowship year, participants work as fully integrated members of international teams across engineering, IT, software and digital innovation, research and development, sustainability, and corporate functions. Each Fellow is matched to a role aligned with their academic background and career interests, ensuring meaningful contribution from day one.
The program also includes dedicated career mentorship, international networking opportunities, and exposure to Hilti’s global operations across more than 120 countries. Travel to Europe, visa arrangements, accommodation support during the Germany phase, and monthly compensation with health insurance coverage are all part of the fellowship package.
Who Should Apply?
This fellowship is built for early-career professionals who want international exposure at the very start of their professional journey. Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as engineering, software development, sustainability, IT, or business-related corporate functions. Strong English skills are required, while basic German knowledge is an advantage but not mandatory, as language training is provided.
Candidates must be able to work in the United States permanently after the fellowship without requiring sponsorship, be internationally mobile, and commit to the full duration of the program. Applicants should also have no more than one year of post-graduation work experience, making this an ideal fit for fresh graduates.
Program Timeline for the 2026 Cohort
The fellowship begins with the language and cultural exchange phase in Germany in July or August 2026. The full-time paid fellowship at Hilti’s headquarters in Liechtenstein officially starts on September 1, 2026, and runs until August 31, 2027.
Applicants targeting the 2026 intake should prepare to apply well ahead of summer 2026, as selections are completed before the language program begins.
Why This Fellowship Stands Out?
Beyond professional development, Fellows become part of a diverse international community representing more than 70 nationalities. The experience includes access to learning programs, wellness facilities, community engagement initiatives, and a work culture that actively supports inclusion, innovation, and personal growth.
While a full-time role after completion is not guaranteed, Hilti actively supports Fellows in exploring internal career opportunities where there is mutual interest, making this fellowship a strong gateway into global corporate careers.