Job Description

Deadline for application: 25 September 2026. The ESM is looking for a trainee to join the Internal Audit division. The selected trainee will assist in planning and conducting audits and advisory assignments with the aim to improve and add value to the ESM’s operations, effectiveness of risk management, controls, and internal governance processes.

Through this traineeship, you will be enabled to acquire practical experience and knowledge of the day-to-day work of the different business areas and to work in a multilingual and multicultural environment, and you will be introduced to the professional world and the constraints, duties and opportunities therein. In this context, you will interact with internal and external stakeholders.

PURPOSE OF THE TRAINEESHIP

• Support advisory activities, covering all aspects of an audit life cycle:
• Planning: assist in defining audit objectives, scope, risks, and controls, and in developing audit work programmes.
• Fieldwork: assist in performing interviews and tests as required; assist in evaluating the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls; document work performed and evidence.
• Reporting: propose draft findings and recommendations.
• Support internal audit in follow-up activities, quality assurance, and coordination of external auditors’ requests.

KEY BACKGROUND

• Hold or be in the process of obtaining a relevant university degree
• Successful completion of all relevant courses according to the university curriculum and entitlement for a traineeship according to this curriculum
• Fluency in English, both oral and written
• A previous traineeship experience in the field of audit would be an asset

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Strong analytical and synthesising skills as well as sound judgement.
• Good written and verbal communication.
• Good interpersonal skills and team player.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective professional relationships with business areas.

APPLICATION PROCESS AND PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Deadline for application: 25 September 2026
• Expected start date: as soon as possible
• Expected duration: 6 months, renewable once
• Competitive allowance granted
• Place of the traineeship: Luxembourg 
• Current working arrangements: possibility to work remotely, normally up to two days a week, from Luxembourg and the border region (or from further away under certain conditions).

Note: Please make sure your availability clearly appears on your CV. 

The ESM aims to provide equal opportunity to all candidates irrespective of their gender, nationality, age, race, culture, education, religious beliefs, sexual orientation or disability. To further enhance the diversity of our workforce, we particularly encourage women to apply.

Note: The ESM reserves the right to refrain from hiring, or to slightly modify job responsibilities, as needed. 

The European Stability Mechanism (ESM) is the permanent crisis resolution mechanism for euro area countries. It provides financial assistance to Members facing financing difficulties. To date, the ESM and its predecessor organisation, the European Financial Stability Facility (EFSF), have launched six financial assistance programmes to five countries, provided financial support, monitored repayment capacity, and engaged with partner institutions for programme design in areas of financial interest.

The ESM is a unique place to work with around 230 individuals committed to making a difference to the future of the euro area. It recruits talented professionals of any nationality from both the private and public sectors. The ESM’s senior management is committed to preserving and enhancing a diverse, inclusive recruitment and work environment.