Traineeship - Legal HR
Job description
Deadline for application: 15 May 2026. We are looking for a trainee to support the work of the Legal-HR team, within the General Counsel Department. You will report to the Principal Legal Counsel, Legal-HR and contribute to a broad range of tasks related to international civil service law.
Purpose Of The Traineeship
Support ongoing projects and initiatives related to international civil service law
Conduct research such as case law or regulatory framework, and benchmark on peer institutions
Contribute to policy development in relation to rules applicable to staff
Assist in the preparation of synthetic legal notes and summaries
Support the day-to-day activities of the Legal-HR team
Key Background & Experience
A candidate for, or recent graduate (within one year of graduation) of, a master’s degree in public international law, international organisations’ law or a related field
Knowledge of international civil service law, with a strong willingness to further develop practical expertise in the field
Demonstrated interest in intergovernmental administration
Ability to analyse and synthetise factual and legal material
Ability to support the drafting of policy documents and legal submissions in the context of staff internal appeals and litigation
Good IT literacy, with proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and interest in AI
Fluency in English, both oral and written
Key Competencies
Analytical and research skills, with attention to detail
Ability to organise information and manage multiple tasks in a structured manner
Sense of confidentiality and discretion when handling information
Teamwork and collaboration in a multicultural environment
Ability to learn quickly and adapt to new topics and processes specific to an international organisation
Proactive, autonomous and reliable working style
Application Process And Practical Information
Deadline for application: 15 May 2026
Expected start date: as soon as possible
Expected duration: six months with a possible extension for another six months
Competitive allowance granted
The ESM strives to provide equal opportunity to all candidates irrespective of their gender, nationality, age, race, culture, education, religious beliefs, sexual orientation or disability. To further enhance the diversity of our workforce, we particularly encourage women to apply.
About us
The European Stability Mechanism (ESM) is the permanent crisis resolution mechanism for euro area countries. It provides financial assistance to Members facing financing difficulties. To date, the ESM and its predecessor organisation, the European Financial Stability Facility (EFSF), have launched six financial assistance programmes to five countries, provided financial support, monitored repayment capacity, and engaged with partner institutions for programme design in areas of financial interest.
The ESM is a unique place to work with around 230 individuals committed to making a difference to the future of the euro area. It recruits talented professionals of any nationality from both the private and public sectors. The ESM’s senior management is committed to preserving and enhancing a diverse, inclusive recruitment and work environment.
Practical information
Deadline for application
15 May 2026 21:59 h
Job identification
357
Posting date
17 Apr 2026 18:00 h