EPSO HQ.
FG I-FG IV Contract Agent

CAST Permanent (Contract Agents)

Specialised and support roles on renewable contracts. Four function groups from manual tasks (FG I) to professional roles (FG IV). Continuous recruitment — no fixed competition dates.

Overview

CAST Permanent is the EU's continuous recruitment mechanism for contract agents. Unlike AD/AST/AST-SC competitions that run on fixed schedules, CAST operates as a rolling recruitment database — you register your profile, and institutions contact you when they have matching vacancies.

Contract agents are hired under fixed-term contracts (typically 3-6 years, renewable). After two renewals, the contract can become indefinite. A 7-year rule limits total non-permanent service within a rolling 12-year period.

Four function groups exist: FG I (manual/support tasks), FG II (clerical), FG III (professional support), and FG IV (highest-level contract roles requiring a university degree).

Entry Requirements

  • EU citizenship with full civic rights
  • FG I-II: secondary education completed
  • FG III: post-secondary diploma + 3 years professional experience
  • FG IV: university degree (3+ years) + 3 years professional experience
  • Two official EU languages
  • Register in the CAST Permanent online database

Selection Tests

  • Verbal reasoning MCQ test
  • Numerical reasoning MCQ test
  • Abstract reasoning MCQ test
  • Tests administered when institution shortlists your profile
  • Institutional interview for successful test candidates
  • No fixed competition dates — tests triggered by hiring needs

Typical Roles

  • FG I: Manual tasks and administrative support services
  • FG II: Clerical, secretarial, and office management under supervision
  • FG III: Professional and specialised support (translation, finance, IT)
  • FG IV: Senior professional roles (policy, analysis, project management)

Salary & Benefits

FG I: from EUR 2,600/month. FG II: EUR 2,715-4,449/month. FG III: EUR 3,476-6,444/month. FG IV: EUR 4,449-9,335/month. Same allowance structure as officials but at contract agent rates.