Jobs in factories in the Netherlands are among the most sought after by Romanians who want to work abroad. You don't need much experience, you receive a Dutch contract, and for many positions, accommodation and transport are organized. In the guide below, you will find out what types of production jobs are available, how much you can earn, and how to apply.
What types of production jobs can you find in the Netherlands
- Food industry: meat processing, vegetables, dairy and cheese, baking, packaging.
- Packaging and production lines: feeding lines, quality control, labeling, palletizing.
- Technical production: PVC and aluminum carpentry, metal processing, assembly, CNC operator.
- Industrial laundries and technical cleaning: washing crates, sorting, maintenance.
- Production combined with warehousing: order picking, forklift, internal deliveries.
How much can you earn in a factory in the Netherlands
The starting salary cannot be less than the legal minimum wage: €14.99 gross per hour for workers over 21 years old, starting from July 1, 2026. Many factories pay more, depending on:
- shifts: night shift, weekend shift, or the 3-shift system come with bonuses established by the collective labor agreement (CAO);
- experience: machine operators or CNC operators and welders have higher rates;
- certifications: forklift (heftruck/reachtruck) and VCA licenses can increase the salary;
- overtime, paid separately.
In addition to the salary, you receive at least 8% vacation allowance (vakantiegeld). Details about gross, net, and deductions can be found in our article about minimum wage in the Netherlands in 2026.
Working hours and conditions
A typical schedule has between 36 and 40 hours per week, often in rotating shifts (morning, afternoon, night). The work usually involves standing, working at a constant pace, and, in the food industry, at low temperatures. Protective equipment is provided by the employer.
What is required to get hired
- valid ID or passport (Romanian citizens do not need a visa or work permit);
- availability for at least a few months;
- basic English, preferably (for many positions it is not mandatory);
- a simple and clear CV. You can create it for free with our CV assistant.
After you arrive, you register at the municipality to receive your BSN (Dutch tax number) and obtain your mandatory health insurance.
Accommodation and transport
For many production jobs, the employer or agency provides accommodation in shared houses or apartments and transport to the factory. Costs are deducted from the salary, within the limits set by law. Ask in advance how much accommodation costs per week and how many people live in a room.
How to apply through Irimia Recruitment
- Choose a position from the list of jobs in the Netherlands and Belgium.
- Submit your application (it takes about 2 minutes).
- We will call you, explain the job, salary, and accommodation in Romanian, and prepare you for departure.
Frequently asked questions
Can I work in a factory in the Netherlands without experience?
Yes. Many helper positions in production, packaging, or food processing do not require experience, and training is provided on the job.
Do I need to know Dutch?
No, for most production jobs, basic English is sufficient, and for some positions, it is not even mandatory.
How quickly can I start?
It depends on the position. For some jobs, you can start within a few days or weeks from applying. We will inform you of the exact date.
Looking for a job in the Netherlands or Belgium?
Verified jobs, Dutch contracts and support in Romanian, from application to hiring.