Who we are
The Directorate-General for Budgetary Affairs is responsible for organising the work of Parliament's committees on budgets and budgetary control and for providing policy support and analyses in the field of budget to committees and parliamentary bodies.
The work of the Committee on Budgetary Control involves strict supervision and control of the correct and targeted use of the EU budget, holding those who spend it accountable. This is achieved through the annual discharge procedure for all Union bodies.
The Secretariat of the Committee on Budgetary Control (CONT) assists rapporteurs and committee members with oral and written information, preparing draft reports and opinions, drafting working documents, notes, and letters, as well as compromise amendments, and preparing voting lists. It supports the work of the Committee Chair and Members in their daily tasks, overseeing the implementation of the EU Budget.
The main responsibility is to ensure the final approval of the implementation of the budget for all Union bodies through the annual discharge procedure. The Secretariat also works on legislative and non-legislative files mainly concerning the improvement of budget management and the safeguarding of the EU's financial interests, including the prevention of economic and financial corruption. CONT's work is supported by the European Court of Auditors. Its remit also covers the European Public Prosecutor's Office and the European Anti-Fraud Office.
This is a relatively small but dynamic team; dedication and team spirit are essential values for us.
Your tasks
As a trainee, you will be swiftly integrated into the team and introduced to budgetary control and the way the European Parliament evaluates how the EU budget is spent. You will be fully involved in the ongoing work of the secretariat: contributing to legislative proposals and own-initiative reports, following the work of the European Court of Auditors in its Special and Annual Reports (the main source of input for the discharge exercise), and participating in public hearings on budgetary control-related issues.
You will actively participate in the preparation and follow-up of committee meetings and, under supervision, you will be assigned tasks and responsibilities. This will allow you to gain an insider's understanding of a great variety of EU policies.
You are
If you have a solid background in law, economics (budget management and audit) or public administration, if you are interested in acquiring more knowledge about EU policies and procedures, and wish to understand the functioning of a parliamentary committee covering a broad range of issues, you will enjoy being part of our team.
We are looking for someone who is highly motivated, eager to learn and to contribute to our work. You will need excellent research and drafting skills and the ability to react quickly to requests. Working in a political environment also requires flexibility and sensitivity.
The European Parliament is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. We welcome all candidates, regardless of their geographical, racial or ethnic origin, political or religious beliefs, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, civil status, or family situation.