Intern - Human Resources

Intern - Human Resources

CEPS - Centre for European Policy Studies

Brussels, Belgium

The HR team is part of the larger Finance and Administration unit, which deals with HR, payroll, budgeting and accounting. Our HR team’s mission is to support and empower CEPS people and create a workplace that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion, where everyone can thrive and develop according to their talents and aspirations. The team consists of a Senior HR Manager and HR Coordinator and is led by the Director of Finance and Administration.

Main tasks

• You will support the CEPS HR team in its daily activities and projects, working under the supervision of the HR Coordinator;
• You will contribute to recruitment and hiring processes, including posting vacancies, screening applications, coordinating interviews, managing recruitment documentation, and supporting the recruitment of interns and visiting fellows;
• You will manage the applications mailbox, respond to spontaneous applications, forward applications to relevant units, and ensure appropriate follow-up;
• You will assist with onboarding and offboarding activities, including scheduling induction sessions, coordinating IT access and equipment, collecting documentation, preparing onboarding materials, and supporting employee departures;
• You will contribute to HR administration by maintaining employee records, updating leave and attendance records, managing HR intranet content, and following up on employee and intern expenses;
• You will participate in a range of HR projects, including the finalisation of the career and reward framework, preparation for the HR Excellence in Research on-site assessment, implementation of performance management tools, HR policy reviews, internal communications, staff surveys, and handbook updates;
• You will support learning and development activities by tracking training participation, organising workshops and training sessions, managing learning materials, processing survey feedback, and researching HR best practices.

Your background and qualifications

• You are currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Organisational Management, or a closely related field. For recent graduates, the option of the CIP (Convention d'Immersion Professionnelle) scheme may be considered, subject to the candidate’s eligibility;
• You have a strong interest in human resources and people management and are eager to learn more about the employee lifecycle and HR processes;
• Any previous internship or relevant work experience in HR, administration, or organisational support is considered an asset but is not required;
• You have excellent written and spoken English. Knowledge of additional languages is an advantage;
• You are proficient in Microsoft 365. Experience with Salesforce, Odoo, or other HR information systems is considered an asset;
• You have a basic understanding of HR concepts such as staff engagement, payroll processes, labour law fundamentals, and organisational development;
• You can work effectively in an international environment and manage multiple priorities while maintaining a high level of accuracy and professionalism.

Your profile

• You are a reliable team player who works effectively with colleagues across different departments and levels of seniority;
• You are proactive and take initiative, demonstrating a willingness to learn and contribute to a variety of HR activities and projects;
• You have strong organisational skills and excellent attention to detail;
• You are able to manage competing priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain high-quality standards in your work;
• You communicate clearly and professionally, both orally and in writing;
• You handle confidential information with discretion and demonstrate a high level of professionalism and integrity;
• You are empathetic, approachable, and committed to providing a positive experience for employees, candidates, interns, and visiting fellows;
• You have an inclusion-oriented mindset and absolute respect for diversity;
• You are enthusiastic about contributing to the success of CEPS as an organisation and supporting a positive workplace culture.