Who we are looking for

Technically sound evidence is essential for building the path towards a Circular and Net Zero economy in Europe. To contribute to this effort, we are seeking a motivated Technical Affairs Intern for a six-month internship to support technical projects of the End-of-life and Circularity Council within Plastics Europe. As a Technical Affairs Intern, you will have the opportunity to gain experience in technical projects and participate in working groups across a broad range of topics, including product design criteria, reuse, and recycling technologies.

This role offers an excellent learning and development opportunity for those interested in sustainability criteria, recycling technologies (including chemical recycling), and the suitability of materials to re-enter the circular economy. You will gain invaluable insights from within the industry, providing a firsthand perspective on technical advancements and sustainability practices.  If you are ready to take on this exciting challenge, we encourage you to apply now!

Start date: as soon as possible

Who we are

Plastics Europe is the pan-European association of plastics manufacturers with offices in every major capital of Europe.  For over 100 years, science and innovation has been the DNA that cuts across our industry. With close to 100 members producing over 90% of all polymers across Europe, we are the catalyst for the industry with a responsibility to openly engage with stakeholders and deliver solutions which are safe, circular and sustainable. We are committed to implementing long-lasting positive change.

Responsibilities:

• Monitor, analyse existing and recent scientific publications in order to provide briefings on recent technical advancements in plastics to contribute to ongoing projects and share insights with the team.
• Support the development of technical reports, presentations, and other communication materials.
• Assist in the organisation and facilitation of technical and project meetings and workshops.
• Be a team player by engaging with different departments across the organisation when needed
• Support various projects on topics that can, amongst other, be linked to the recently published Packaging and Packaging Waste regulation, such as:
  • design for recycling and recyclability protocols
  • complementary recycling technologies and their selection depending on the type of plastic waste and/or final product application
  • environmental indicators
• Collaborate with the Pan-European teams to contribute to developing robust project business cases
• Assist with various ad-hoc projects and tasks as needed.

Your profile:

• University degree in chemical engineering, environmental engineering, organic chemistry or a related field.
• Interest in plastics circularity
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Passion for sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Mandatory - In possession of an EU passport or other means of working and residing in Belgium for the duration of the traineeship.  

What we offer:

• Six months paid internship (Convention d’immersion professionelle) based in the Plastics Europe offices in Brussels;
• Reimbursement of the public transport and meal vouchers;
• International and dynamic multicultural environment.

Interested

If you wish to apply, please submit your CV (maximum two pages) and cover letter (maximum one page) via the Plastics Europe Careers page.

Applications will be reviewed as received and the position will close when filled. So early applications are welcome. Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted. 

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