Working as a production worker: the work, the salary and the career progression

Manufacturing work means that you work in a factory or production hall. You make products, check quality, assemble parts, or operate a machine. The tasks vary from company to company, but the entry threshold is low everywhere. If you are physically fit, can follow instructions, and can work with concentration, this is right for you.

A typical day begins with a brief briefing. You hear what is being produced that day, which machine you are operating and what the quality standard is. After that, you get to work. Typical tasks include assembling products on a conveyor belt, loading or unloading materials, checking products for defects, refilling or setting up machines, and packaging.

Physically, the work is active. You stand for most of your shift, sometimes lifting, bending, and repeating the same action several times per minute. After a few weeks, it becomes automatic. It takes an average of two to four weeks to get used to it. During that period, you get to know the machine, the safety procedures, and the pace of the line. After that, you work independently.

What does EU-People arrange for you?

If you are new to the Netherlands or just starting out, practical matters can sometimes be a barrier. EU-People arranges accommodation near your workplace and organizes transportation to the workplace. You will have a personal job coach who will guide you in the beginning, even if you have questions about your contract, your pay slip, or your work situation. You don’t have to figure it out on your own.