Take a 3 hour aptitude/skills test along with other applicants. Test includes math skills, thinking skills, mechanical aptitude, visual comprehension, etc.
If you pass the test you will be scheduled for an interview. The interview was a few weeks after the test.
The interview is usually conducted by two groups of two people, some in management, and some representing the union officials.
After a successful interview a job offer is extended.
There is a week-long orientation process before being placed within the plant (you have no say which department you're going)
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
The most important thing they are looking for is a familiarity or at least a commitment to a safety regime since the number one buzzword in the plant is "safety." Do not tell stories that demonstrate risky behavior, aversion to authority, etc.
I applied online. The process took 7 months. I interviewed at Tate & Lyle (Dayton, OH) in Jan 2010
Interview
I applied nearly six months before even being called. After that you go through two round robin style interviews. They last about three hours each. After that things move very quickly