Directorate for Communication Support and Analytics

As the voice of citizens, the European Parliament stands for European democracy. The Directorate-General for Communication (DG COMM) amplifies its message of the Parliament to reach every corner of Europe. We help connect Members of Parliament to the people they represent, and we communicate what the Parliament is, what it does, and what it stands for. When Parliament speaks, we make sure it’s heard.

We are committed communication professionals coming from various professional and academic backgrounds.

The Data Protection Coordinator team is part of the Directorate for Communication Support and Analytics, formerly known as the Directorate for Resources.

Our primary role is to support the data controllers by providing expert advice, ensuring that they are well equipped to handle data protection issues effectively. To achieve this, we rely on a network of active "Data Protection Focal Points" throughout the Directorates, who serve as liaison points in the different Units. We work closely with these Focal Points to prepare and coordinate data protection initiatives and address potential issues.

In addition to our work with the Focal Points, we maintain a close relationship with the Parliament's Data Protection Officer (DPO) team, relying on their expertise for particularly complex cases.

Our team currently consists of two newly appointed, highly motivated members.

We are now seeking an enthusiastic trainee to join us. We offer a positive and collaborative work environment, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and mutual support.

If you are interested in data protection and are looking for a challenging opportunity to develop your skills and expertise, we encourage you to apply for this traineeship.

As a trainee in our Data Protection Coordinator team, you will have the opportunity to work on a wide range of tasks, including:

• Assisting in the drafting of data protection documentation (such as records and data protection notices);
• Reviewing contractual clauses to identify potential data protection risks and ensure data protection compliance in procurements and grants procedures;
• Assessing IT tools to understand their technical features, their potential impact on data protection, and suggesting mitigation measures;
• Participating to meetings with colleagues to identify their data protection concerns and providing guidance;
• Developing training materials, such as guidelines, slides and presentations to educate colleagues on best practices in data protection;
• Handling data subjects’ requests;
• Assisting colleagues during European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) investigations and audits.

As part of the team, you will be involved in data protection aspects of various activities, including:

• Supporting events like conferences and workshops, including managing visitor access to our premises, image rights, the reception of minors, and other logistical aspects;
• Organising visits to our exhibitions, including handling booking systems, security access, financial reimbursements, and coordination with external partners and stakeholders;
• Welcoming and accrediting journalists and other media professionals to cover our activities;
• Coordinating the production and distribution of newsletters to internal and external stakeholders;
• Contributing to our social media and web presence, including using online monitoring tools, managing cookies (or similar technologies), and creating or removing content;
• Managing our audio-visual materials, including videos, photos, and other multimedia content.

This traineeship is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in Data Protection, IT, and Communication, while working in a dynamic and supportive team environment.

If you are interested in this opportunity and are looking for a challenging and rewarding experience, this is the place to be!

We are looking for a candidate who has:

• Obtained/will obtain a university degree (level 6 of EQF or higher) at least three months before the starting date of the traineeship;
• A strong interest in data protection (a legal background is not required, but a logical and methodical approach is essential);
• The ability to analyse and synthesise complex information;
• Exceptional attention to detail;
• A proactive and collaborative working style;
• Proven drafting and communication skills in English.

IT skills are highly valued. You should be able to use the office tools at our disposal, but, more importantly, understand the complexity of the systems involved in personal data processes and their vulnerabilities from a data protection perspective.

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.