Techs of Tomorrow Insights: Inside Schneider Electric's Approach to Building Technical Careers

Growth Without Traditional Limits

Schneider approaches career development through multiple pathways rather than rigid advancement structures. 

"Growth is very important to Schneider," Ale stated. "When we're looking at bringing employees in, we really want them to grow within the company."

The development process starts immediately. "Part of the management structure is focused on how you develop your own teams and how you drive performance conversations and growth conversations since you first joined," Ale explained.

Career paths don't follow linear progressions. "Sometimes the path may not be linear. It may switch depending on what it is that you want to explore," Ale noted about internal mobility opportunities.

Schneider offers its employees multiple development resources, including additional classes, training programs, mentoring, and job shadowing. Employees can even create stretch assignments based on personal interests and company needs.

"If there's one topic that you're very passionate about, we're always very open about seeing how you can continue learning to add to your current role," Ale said about customized development opportunities.

The company emphasizes education, experience, and exposure as development pillars. Tuition reimbursement supports formal learning while internal programs provide practical experience.

Many aspiring technicians worry about getting stuck in a narrow lane. Working technicians also often prefer the freedom to move into different fields as their careers progress. Schneider Electric, where cross-functional movement is common, is a great place for them.

 "We always see a lot of people switching from different BUs and just exploring roles that they never had in mind because transferable skills play a very significant role," Ale observed.

What’s Work-Life Balance To You?

Schneider recognizes that work-life balance means different things to different people. The company offers various arrangements to accommodate individual preferences and life circumstances.

"It really depends on what you're looking for and how you define work-life balance," Ale explained. Manufacturing sites can offer compressed four-day schedules for consistent home time.

On the other hand, field service roles appeal to people who enjoy travel and variety. "If you like a more dynamic environment, if you like traveling, if you like going to different customer sites constantly, you can think of the field service technician role," Ale suggested.

With jobs available at both ends of the spectrum, technicians can easily find a position that suits their situation.

As for PTO, Schneider offers a substantial amount, which increases with tenure. They also have unique benefits, such as "recharge breaks". These are extended sabbatical periods for longer rest. 

Beyond traditional healthcare benefits, the company provides mental health resources and financial coaching to support employee well-being. "You have access to coaches that can help you with your finances," mentioned Ale.

It’s a rare workplace where managers truly prioritize work-life balance discussions. 

"Managers really do prioritize work-life balance,” notes Ale, explaining how “there are always conversations that you can have with your managers", in reference to schedule accommodations and special arrangements.

Thanks to Schneider Electric’s global operations, employees enjoy a lot of flexibility. With multiple locations and role types, there are always arrangements that match their personal situations and preferences.

What This Means for Technical Job Seekers

Schneider Electric focuses on long-term employee development, rather than just filling immediate positions. Their emphasis on continuous learning and internal mobility is an excellent opportunity for career changers and entry-level candidates.

It’s also a positive sign about their vision for the future. They invest in long-term development, expecting technician jobs to grow and evolve.

For job seekers, Schneider Electric is an opportunity to find technician work that genuinely suits them. There are multiple career pathways, supported by tuition reimbursement, mentoring programs, and stretch assignments, all within a single organization. 

Aspiring and current technicians can also think of Schneider Electric’s technician jobs as a representation of the career itself. Technicians, no matter where they begin, will always have opportunities across functions and industries. Support programs that can help with upskilling are always within reach.