If you care about workers' rights, European transport policy, and the kind of trade union work that actually shapes legislation — the European Transport Workers' Federation is offering a traineeship in its Railways Section in Brussels. This is a substantive, policy-facing role at the heart of one of Europe's most influential transport union federations, representing 5 million+ workers across 200+ unions in 38 countries.
🏢 About ETF
The European Transport Workers' Federation is a European trade union federation promoting the interests of transport workers across Europe and beyond. Its Railways Section works at the intersection of EU policy, collective bargaining, and cross-border solidarity — and this traineeship puts you directly inside that operation.
💶 Compensation
💰 €1,056 per month under a Belgian professional immersion contract
🍽️ Meal vouchers of €8 per day
🚌 Public transport subscription provided
📋 Key Responsibilities
🗂️ Support the coordination of the Railways Section activities
🤝 Provide essential support to the Head of Land Transport, the Senior Policy Officer for Railways, affiliates, and the ETF Secretariat
📅 Organise, attend, and support meetings with effective follow-up
🔍 Carry out in-depth research related to railways policy and developments
📝 Draft policy documents, reports, position papers, and minutes
📞 Serve as a point of contact for affiliate organisations
🎤 Represent ETF at events and external engagements when required
💶 Submit and implement EU co-funded projects
🤝 Cooperate with other ETF Departments and Communications Officers
👤 Who Should Apply
This traineeship is for candidates who hold a Master's Degree in Industrial Relations, EU Law, or Political Sciencesand bring:
🏛️ Experience and/or strong commitment to trade union values
🗣️ Fluency in English — any additional language is highly desirable
💬 Strong communication skills with the ability to synthesise complex information
🚀 High level of initiative, independence, and adaptability in a small team environment
💻 Proficiency in MS Office
✈️ Willingness and availability to travel across Europe
🎁 What ETF Offers
⏱️ 34-hour working week with flexitime
🏠 Up to 2 days teleworking per week
👥 A multicultural team of 25 people
📍 Dynamic workplace at the centre of Brussels
📅 Weekly team meetings
✈️ European travel as part of the role
📅 Duration & Start Date
🗓️ 6 to 12 months — exact duration to be discussed
🛬 Starting date: As soon as possible
📍 Brussels, Belgium
⏰ Deadline
As soon as possible! Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis — apply early.
📬 How to Apply
Send your CV and a short motivation letter in English to:
📧 Agathe Smyth, ETF Senior Operations Manager: hr@etf-europe.org
