VACANCY NOTICE - CONTRACT AGENT

About us

The Directorate-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion (DG EMPL) develops and implements policies, legislation and funding instruments to promote a competitive social market economy and a modern European social model. Through the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights and the effective use of EU funding, it aims to create more and better jobs, promote skills, improve labour market performance and reduce poverty and social exclusion.

Within this framework, Unit D.4 contributes to the objectives of the European Pillar of Social Rights by supporting a fair recovery, facilitating the green and digital transitions, and strengthening economic and social resilience in France, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg.

To achieve these objectives Unit D.4 plays a central role in the European Semester. It monitors and analyses developments in employment, social and skills policies, providing the evidence base for the development, implementation and monitoring of EU legislation and policy recommendations across the four countries it oversees.

The Unit also works closely with Member States, social partners and civil society, to support the effective programming and implementation of the European Social Fund Plus (2021–2027) and the development of the Social Climate Fund. It also coordinates these funds with other EU funding programmes, including the Recovery and Resilience Facility, to which it contributes in terms of assessment and monitoring.

Finally, Unit D.4 contributes to discussions on the design and allocation of the next Multiannual Financial Framework for the countries under its responsibility.

About the role

We offer a challenging position for a highly motivated candidate. The successful candidate will be primarily responsible for the monitoring and analysing developments in employment, skills and social inclusion policies in the Netherlands and Belgium, and for preparing relevant recommendations and proposals. In addition, the successful candidate may contribute to the management of EU funds in these two countries.

In particular, the main tasks of the candidate will include:

(1) Gathering information on changes in the national socio-economic situation and analysing policy developments, as well as drafting and contributing to the various Commission documents and reports related to the European Semester and related initiatives
(2) Contributing to discussions on the design and allocation of the next Multiannual Financial Framework
(3) Monitor the implementation and contributing to the sound management of the EU funds under the responsibility of the unit.

The primary focus of these responsibilities will be on the Netherlands and Belgium. However, the selected candidate may also be asked to contribute to work related to other countries within the unit's remit, depending on the needs of the unit.

The jobholder will maintain regular and close contact with other Commission services, national and regional authorities, as well as relevant stakeholders.

Qualifications, experience and skills

We are looking for a policy officer with a passion for Social Europe, creative thinking, and a proactive drive. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in social, employment, or economic policies. A strong technical and analytical background is essential, along with the ability to work effectively with economic, statistical data and reports. The successful candidate will be selected based, in part, on their ability to present complex and specialized information in a clear and accessible manner.

Experience working with a variety of stakeholders—including national or EU authorities, international organizations, civil society organizations, and think tanks—is also important. A strong command of English and Dutch, both oral and written, would be important for the successful performance of the role. Knowledge of French would be an asset.

Previous experience within the European Institutions in the fields of this vacancy is also an asset. Candidates should possess strong organizational, delivery, and communication skills, as well as a proactive, service-oriented attitude. Sound policy judgment and intellectual curiosity are also essential qualities.

How to express your interest?

You should send your documents in a single pdf in the following order:

1. Your CV
2. Completed application form

Please send these documents by the publication deadline to EMPL-DIRECTORATE-D-VACANCIES@ec.europa.eu indicating the selection reference EC-2026-EMPL-325975 .

Eligibility

For eligibility, please consult this page with all the information needed.