European Commission administrators

European Commission administrators job description: Typical employers | Qualifications and training | Key skills | Useful links | Find jobs and courses

The European Commission, European Parliament and several other EU institutions employ administrators. Typical responsibilities of the job include:

• writing reports;
• organising and attending meetings;
• preparing policy proposals;
• implementing policies;
• managing staff and resources;
• undertaking research to ensure consistency of policies and procedures throughout member states;
• debating and negotiating ideas;
• drafting European Community legislation;
• overseeing relations between EU and non-EU member states.

Promotional opportunities are excellent for those who can demonstrate appropriate skills, experience and performance.

Only a small number of vacancies occur each year, for which there is intense competition. Most jobs are located in Luxembourg and Brussels and are advertised in national newspapers and by careers services. There is a lengthy and rigorous entrance procedure (which can take up to a year to complete) designed to identify graduates possessing outstanding ability.

Qualifications and training required

A degree gained in any discipline is acceptable for entry, although qualifications in subjects such as statistics, law, economics, business studies, accounting or finance can be helpful. Applicants should possess an excellent record of academic achievement (min. 2.2), including good A level results. Prior relevant work experience is necessary for entry at some, but not all, levels. Knowledge of EU policies/institutions and/or managerial experience gained within the public sector can be advantageous, as can postgraduate qualifications, especially those with a European element. A ‘stage' work experience placement can be particularly helpful.

Key skills for European Commission administrators

All candidates must be confident, mature in attitude and decisive; with excellent interpersonal, numerical and verbal/written communication skills. Foreign language abilities are of particular importance to the job and all candidates are required to have knowledge of a second official language. Employees are actively encouraged to undertake further training in this area, particularly in French and German.