Employment & Social Affairs Trainee

Start date: 1 September 2026

Contract duration: Paid internship of 6 months (full-time 38h/week under Belgian social legislation)

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 Employment and Social Affairs (EPSCO).

About the PES

The Party of European Socialists (PES) brings together socialist, social democratic and labour parties across Europe. 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 across Europe. We engage in political campaigning and exchange on strategy, policies and best practices. Supporting our member parties and organisations, the PES acts as an important network organization for them by providing policy advice and coordination, assistance and organization of events related to European affairs.

Your Mission

As a trainee, you will support the PES EU Policy Unit on employment & social affairs, under the guidance of the policy adviser in charge, contributing to a variety of tasks:

• Engage with key EU policies: research and contribute to policy proposals in the fields of employment and social affairs. You will follow and report on 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: support the PES Communications team when drafting press releases, monitoring media coverage, and creating content for PES’s social media platforms.
• Help with the political and practical organization of high-level events: contribute to organizing PES Congresses and Councils, Ministers’ meetings, expert panels, and other key events with leading politicians, MEPs, trade unions, and civil society representatives.
• Take on other duties as needed, offering a chance to broaden your experience and making a real impact.

What We Are Looking For:

• Strong political awareness and commitment to the PES values.
• Understanding of European decision-making, EU institutions, and European politics.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Strong research, writing, and communication skills.
• A collaborative mindset and willingness to contribute to a diverse multi-cultural and cross-functional fast-paced work environment.
• University degree in a relevant field or work experience in a relevant field.
• Fluency in English proficiency in at least one other EU language is a plus.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and other office IT tools.

What we Offer

• Contribute to change: you’ll be at the heart of shaping transformative policies for Europe’s future.
• Work-life balance: we value flexibility and offer a full-time (38h/week) contract based in Brussels with excellent public transport links.
• Dynamic environment: our office is a melting pot of ideas and cultures, located in the vibrant European Quarter.
• Professional growth: gain hands-on experience in EU policymaking, attend exciting high-level events, and network with European leaders.
• An attractive salary package: paid traineeship, including meal-vouchers, hospitalization insurance, and full public transport reimbursement.

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_epsco@pes.eu by Sunday 14th June 2026 (inclusive), and be sure to mention “EPSCO Trainee 2026” in the subject line.

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.

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