Vacancy – Circular Economy and Nature Protection Trainee
ECOS is seeking a new trainee with a focus on circularity and ecodesign. Learn about environmental policy and standards whilst supporting the Circular Economy and Nature team and gain valuable experience working in a dynamic and influential environmental NGO.
Deadline to apply: 14 May 2026
Your main tasks
- Assist programme managers’ work relating to environmental aspects in policy and standards on circularity and ecodesign, in support of our wider work on the circular economy and nature protection.
- Assist programme managers in the development of research and communication material, including blog posts and articles.
- Support the programme managers in the organisation of meetings and events.
- Assist with fundraising, reporting, and other administrative tasks.
Skills and experience required
- University degree in political, social and/or environmental sciences, or other relevant discipline.
- Knowledge of EU institutions and policy making.
- Commitment to the values, vision and mission of ECOS.
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
- Excellent writing, communication, networking skills.
- Professional fluency in oral and written English, other languages are an asset.
What we offer
- A six-month (renewable) full-time paid traineeship under the Belgian CIP framework (Convention d’immersion professionnelle). Internship allowance of €1,200 per month, teleworking allowance, meal vouchers, reimbursement of public transport expenses, and two days holidays per month.
- A flexible, dynamic, and pleasant international working environment, with an emphasis on transparency, well-being, and personal development.
- Join relevant training opportunities and briefings.
- Join a welcoming, pleasant, and dedicated team, with a common goal to protect the environment.
- A flexible working environment, with the possibility to partially telework.
These are a few competencies that you could acquire through this experience:
- Experience with campaigning on environmental issues.
- Hands-on experience working with EU institutions on policy-making.
- Understanding of EU and international standardisation organisations and standards-making.
- Digital skills and literacy in online collaboration tools.
How to apply
Applicants should attach a CV and cover letter in an email to careers@ecostandard.org by 14 May 2026 COB. Please use the subject line Circular Economy and Nature Protection trainee: YOUR NAME.
- Please note that this position is based in Brussels.
- Applicants will be assessed on a rolling basis – early applications are therefore encouraged.
- We regret that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
- Please note that applicants need to have the right to work in the EU or in Belgium.
ECOS is an equal opportunity employer, placing great value on diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We welcome applications from candidates with diverse cultural backgrounds and expertise.
Concerning the use of Artificial Intelligence in applications
We are interested in getting to know your authentic self and your unique set of skills and experiences, which cannot be generated by AI. Please therefore limit the use of AI to reformulation and be aware of its environmental impact. If you have used AI for your application, please declare it, indicating what type of AI tools you have used and for what purpose.
