Internship – Public Affairs (based in Brussels)
About CER
The Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER) represents the interests of its members towards the EU institutions, international bodies and stakeholders. Our mission is to promote the development of a sustainable, efficient and integrated railway system in Europe. CER members are active in freight, passenger, and infrastructure services across Europe.
The Role
CER is looking for a highly motivated Public Affairs Intern to join its Brussels-based team. The selected candidate will support the organisation’s advocacy and communications work with the EU institutions and stakeholders, contributing to CER’s goal of promoting the rail sector.
Key Responsibilities
- Monitor and analyse EU legislative and policy developments, particularly in the fields of transport, climate and energy.
- Assist in preparing briefing notes, policy summaries and internal updates.
- Attend and report on relevant conferences, hearings, and institutional meetings.
- Assist in organising events and meetings with stakeholders and EU decision-makers.
- Support the Public Affairs team with communication, administrative, logistical and outreach tasks.
Profile
- Master’s degree (or near completion) in Political Science, EU Affairs, International Relations, Law, Economics or a related field.
- Sound knowledge of the EU institutions and legislative processes.
- Strong interest in EU rail and transport policy.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills in English; proficiency in at least one additional EU official language is required.
- Strong organisational skills with high attention to detail.
- Proactive, adaptable and capable of working both independently as well as collaboratively within a team.
Commitment and Work permit
- This is a full-time internship position with a duration of 6 months, starting in March 2026.
- The successful candidate must be available to commit to the entire duration of the internship.
- The applicant must have the legal authorisation to work in Belgium.
What's in it for you?
- A paid, six-month vocational internship (CIP/BIO) based in our office in Brussels.
- A contribution to accommodation costs, meal vouchers and a 100% reimbursement of public transport travel costs.
- A challenging international job in a small, dynamic, young and multinational team.
- An excellent learning opportunity as well as a possibility for professional growth for a recent graduate who is interested in CER, as well as dealing with railway undertakings and their national associations.
How to apply
To apply, please send your CV and maximum one-page cover letter in English by e-mail to
The closing date for applications is 11 January 2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an in-person or online interview. Two rounds of interviews will be conducted.