Shell Graduate Trainee Program 2025/2026

Shell Graduate Trainee Program 2025/2026

Introduction

The Shell Graduate Trainee Program 2025/2026 stands as one of the most prestigious career opportunities available to young graduates in Nigeria and across Africa. Every year, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) opens its doors to ambitious university graduates who aspire to build impactful careers in the global energy industry.

For more than six decades, Shell has been at the forefront of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. Beyond being an industry giant, the company remains a model for talent development.

About Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC)

Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) is one of Nigeria’s largest and most technologically advanced energy companies. It operates as part of the Royal Dutch Shell Group, a global leader in oil, gas, and renewable energy. Established in 1937, Shell Nigeria has grown into a multi-dimensional organization with strong influence in exploration, production, refining, and sustainable energy initiatives.

In partnership with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Shell plays a critical role in driving Nigeria’s economic development, energy security, and employment generation. The company’s operations cover the Niger Delta region, and its corporate headquarters is located in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Shell’s Core Values

Shell’s corporate culture revolves around five fundamental principles:

1. Honesty and Integrity – Conducting business ethically and transparently.

2. Respect for People – Promoting diversity, inclusion, and respect across all operations.

3. Professionalism – Building excellence in every employee’s career journey.

4. Safety – Prioritizing human and environmental safety in all projects.

5. Sustainability – Supporting cleaner energy solutions and local community development.

The Shell Graduate Trainee Program 2025/2026 is one of the company’s strongest commitments to building a new generation of Nigerian and African energy professionals.

Overview of the Shell Graduate Trainee Program

The Shell Graduate Trainee Program (SGTP) is designed for fresh university graduates who want to start their careers in a structured, international-standard environment. It’s an accelerated learning and development program that combines on-the-job training, mentorship, and classroom sessions to prepare participants for leadership roles in the future.

Program Duration

The program typically lasts two to three years, depending on the candidate’s discipline and assigned role.

Program Objective

To identify, train, and integrate talented young Nigerians into Shell’s workforce, equipping them with technical and managerial skills to lead in the global energy transition.

Shell Graduate Trainee Program 2025/2026

Shell Graduate Trainee Program 2025/2026 Key Highlights

Who Can Apply Eligibility and Qualifications

To qualify for the Shell Graduate Trainee Program 2025/2026, candidates must meet specific educational, professional, and personal requirements.

General Requirements

1. Must be a Nigerian citizen by birth or naturalization.

2. Must not be older than 28 years at the time of application.

3. Must have completed the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program.

4. Must possess a minimum of a Second Class Upper (2:1) in relevant disciplines.

5. Must demonstrate leadership potential, problem-solving skills, and teamwork ability.

6. Must be fluent in written and spoken English.

7. Must be willing to work anywhere in Nigeria or abroad.

Eligible Disciplines

Shell accepts candidates from a wide range of academic backgrounds, including:

1. Engineering: Petroleum, Chemical, Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, and Production Engineering.

2. Geosciences: Geology, Geophysics, Geoinformatics.

3. Sciences: Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science, and Industrial Chemistry.

4. Commercial Disciplines: Accounting, Economics, Finance, Business Administration.

5. Information Technology: Computer Science, Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, Information Systems.

6. Humanities: Law, Communications, Sociology, and Psychology.

6. Shell Graduate Trainee Recruitment Process

The recruitment process for the Shell Graduate Trainee Program 2025/2026 is transparent, rigorous, and based on merit. It involves several stages designed to assess technical ability, analytical thinking, and cultural fit.

Stage 1: Online Application

Candidates complete an online application form on the Shell Careers Portal. Personal information, educational background, and relevant documents must be uploaded accurately.

Stage 2: Online Assessment

Qualified applicants are invited to take aptitude and psychometric tests assessing logical reasoning, situational judgment, and problem-solving skills.

Stage 3: Video Interview

Applicants who pass the test are invited for a competency-based video interview where behavioral and motivational questions are asked.

Stage 4: Shell Assessment Centre

Shortlisted candidates are invited to Shell’s Assessment Centre, where they participate in case studies, group discussions, and technical interviews with Shell professionals.

Stage 5: Offer and Onboarding

Successful candidates receive formal job offers and begin the onboarding process to integrate into Shell’s global graduate development framework.

How to Apply for the Shell Graduate Trainee Program 2025/2026

To successfully apply for the program, follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

Ensure you have soft copies of the following:

1. Updated CV or résumé

2. Degree certificate or transcript

3. NYSC discharge certificate

4. Valid government ID (NIN, passport, or driver’s license)

5. Passport photograph

Step 2: Visit the Shell Careers Portal

When the program opens, visit the official Shell Careers website and navigate to the “Graduate Opportunities” section.

Step 3: Create an Account

Sign up with your active email address, create a password, and verify your account.

Step 4: Complete the Application Form

Fill in accurate personal and academic details. Select your preferred discipline and location.

Step 5: Submit and Confirm

Double-check every section before submitting. Save a copy of your confirmation slip.

Step 6: Monitor Your Email

Shell communicates all recruitment updates through email. Ensure you regularly check your inbox and spam folders.

Shell Graduate Trainee Program 2025/2026

Shell Graduate Trainee Salary Structure 2025/2026

Shell is known for its competitive compensation packages designed to attract and retain the best talent in the energy sector.

Additional Benefits Include:

1. Housing allowance or company accommodation.

2. Transportation allowance or staff bus service.

3. Comprehensive health insurance.

4. Annual leave and paid vacations.

5. Retirement savings and pension contributions.

6. Global mobility and training opportunities abroad.

Career Development Opportunities

Shell’s Graduate Trainee Program is a fast-track development path that provides hands-on experience and continuous learning opportunities.

Learning Components Include:

1. On-the-Job Training — Real-time exposure to live projects.

2. Mentorship — Senior leaders guide trainees through structured sessions.

3. Technical Workshops — Focused training on industry tools and safety practices.

4. International Assignments — Selected candidates participate in global rotations within Shell offices in Europe, Asia, or the Middle East.

5. Performance Reviews — Regular appraisals ensure progress toward defined career goals.

Graduates from the program typically advance to positions like Project Engineers, Geoscientists, Production Supervisors, Business Analysts, and Finance Specialists within a few years.

Why You Should Apply for the Shell Graduate Trainee Program 2025/2026

1. Global Exposure:
   Work with world-class professionals in a multinational environment.

2. Structured Career Path:
   Shell provides clear growth milestones and professional certifications.

3. Competitive Pay and Benefits:
   Shell offers one of the highest graduate trainee salaries in Nigeria’s private sector.

4. Sustainability and Innovation:
   You will be part of Shell’s transition toward cleaner, renewable energy solutions.

5. Professional Mentorship:
   Every trainee is paired with a mentor for personalized guidance.

6. Work-Life Balance:
   Shell promotes employee wellness and flexible work options.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Application

1. Submitting incomplete documents or false information.

2. Using multiple emails or applying more than once.

3. Ignoring instructions in the aptitude test or skipping assessments.

4. Missing application deadlines.

5. Failing to research Shell’s values before the interview.

Tips for a Successful Application

1. Read all application guidelines before submission.

2. Ensure your CV highlights leadership, teamwork, and innovation.

3. Prepare thoroughly for Shell’s aptitude tests using logical reasoning materials.

4. Be confident and authentic during video interviews.

5. Demonstrate passion for sustainability and global energy solutions.

Shell Graduate Trainee Program 2025/2026

Shell Graduate Program FAQs

Q1: Is the Shell Graduate Trainee Program paid?
A: Yes, trainees receive a competitive monthly salary with benefits.

Q2: Can I apply without completing NYSC?
A: No. NYSC completion is mandatory for Nigerian applicants.

Q3: How long does the selection process take?
A: Typically between 8–12 weeks from application to final offer.

Q4: What is the work location for trainees?
A: Port Harcourt, Lagos, and other Shell operational sites.

Q5: Is the program open to HND holders?
A: Only graduates with at least a 2:1 degree are eligible. However, Shell sometimes recruits HND holders under specific technical programs.

Testimonials from Past Trainees

1. Adaobi, Process Engineer:

“Shell’s Graduate Program gave me exposure to international projects and top engineering tools within my first year. It’s a challenging but rewarding journey.”

2. Ibrahim, Financial Analyst:

“The mentorship culture at Shell is unmatched. I learned both technical and leadership skills that shaped my career.”

3. Chinenye, HR Specialist:

“From day one, you feel part of something bigger — a company that values innovation, safety, and people.”

4. Oluwaseun, Petroleum Engineer:

“The program prepared me to lead complex projects confidently. Shell truly invests in young professionals.”

5. Musa, IT Analyst:

“Working with global teams broadened my perspective on technology and digital transformation in the energy sector.”

Conclusion

The Shell Graduate Trainee Program 2025/2026 remains one of the most competitive and rewarding entry-level opportunities for young Nigerian professionals. It offers structured development, global exposure, and a strong foundation for a lifetime career in the energy industry.

If you are driven, innovative, and passionate about sustainable energy, this program is your chance to join one of the world’s most respected organizations. Start preparing early, update your CV, and ensure you meet all eligibility requirements before the portal opens.

Your journey to a fulfilling professional life begins with one bold step applying for the Shell Graduate Trainee Program 2025/2026.