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Join the Party of European Socialists (PES)
Job title: Economic and Financial Affairs Trainee
Location: Brussels (On-site + Hybrid)
Deadline applications: 4 January 2026
Starting Date: February 2026
Contract Duration: Paid Internship six-month fixed-term contract (Full-time 38h/week)
About the Vacancy
The Party of European Socialists (PES) brings together the Socialist, Social Democratic and Labour Parties. The PES is our common platform, where our members come together: activists, party executives, Secretary Generals, Leaders, youth organisations, MPs, MEPs, European Commissioners, Ministers and Prime-Ministers of socialist, social-democratic, labour and democratic parties and organisations within Europe. We also exchange best practices and engage in political campaigning. Our main aim is to support our member parties and organisations. The PES acts as an important network organization for our member parties by providing policy advice, assistance and organization of EU-related events. Are you passionate about European politics and social justice? Do you want to gain hands-on experience working with key political actors and shaping the future of EU policy? The Party of European Socialists (PES) is looking for an enthusiastic and driven trainee to support our EU Policy Unit on Economic and Financial Affairs (ECOFIN).
Main Tasks
As a trainee, you will support the PES EU Policy Unit on economic and financial affairs, under the guidance of the policy adviser in charge, contributing to a variety of tasks:
- Engage with key EU policy issues: Research and contribute to policy proposals in the fields of economic and financial affairs. You will follow and report on congresses, conferences, meetings, and seminars. You will draft political documents, in-depth policy analyses, speaking notes, and briefings for PES leadership, and monitor the latest developments in the relevant policy fields.
- Shape political communication: Work alongside the Communications team to draft press releases, monitor media coverage, and create engaging content for PES’s social media platforms.
- Help with the political and practical organization of high-level events: Play a part in organizing meetings of PES ministers, expert panels, and other key events with leading politicians, MEPs, trade unions, and civil society representatives.
- Take on other duties as needed, offering you a chance to broaden your experience and make a real impact.
What We Are Looking For
- A strong political awareness and commitment to the PES values.
- An understanding of European decision-making, EU institutions, and European politics.
- Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
- University degree in a relevant field or work experience in a relevant field.
- Strong research, writing, and communication skills.
- Fluency in English proficiency in at least one other EU language is a plus.
- A collaborative mindset and a willingness to contribute to a diverse multi-cultural and cross-functional fast-paced work environment.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and other office IT tools.
- Legal right to work in Belgium (no single permit application for this internship)
What we Offer
- Be a Changemaker: You’ll be at the heart of shaping progressive policies for Europe’s future.
- Work-Life Balance: We value flexible working time and hybrid office, and we offer a full-time (38h/week) contract under Belgian social legislation.
- Dynamic Environment: Our office is a melting pot of ideas and cultures, located in the vibrant European Quarter in Brussels, with fully reimbursed public transport.
- Professional Growth: Gain hands-on experience in EU policymaking, attend exciting high-level events, and network with European leaders.
- A salary package: Paid internship including meal-vouchers, home working allowances, and hospitalization insurance.
Ready to Make a Difference?
If you are passionate about European politics and eager to gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced political environment, we would love to hear from you! Send your application, including a CV and cover letter, to recruitment_ecofin@pes.eu by the 4th January 2026, 23:59 (Brussels Time), and be sure to mention “ECOFIN Trainee 2026” in the subject line. We are not using AI tools, shortlisted candidates will be contacted by mid-January 2026 f or an offline/online interview.
We Believe in Equality
The PES is committed to diversity and providing equal opportunities for everyone. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, background, or identity. This position is open to nationals of EU/EEA member states or Switzerland, and to non-EU nationals with the right to work in Belgium.