Soldier

In short

What does a soldier do?

A soldier participates in military operations, performs tasks under physically demanding conditions, and works as part of a team.

How much does a soldier earn?

As an indication, a soldier earns between €2,400 and €4,000 gross per month in the Netherlands: starters around €2,400, experienced staff towards €4,000.

What education do you need to become a soldier?

In the Netherlands you usually get there through vocational education (MBO), a university of applied sciences (HBO) or a research university (WO), so there is more than one route.

Career description

As a soldier, you serve your country by participating in military operations, both nationally and internationally. You perform duties under often physically demanding and stressful conditions, where discipline, teamwork, and resilience are essential. Responsibilities include training, patrols, and maintaining security, often far from home.

Salary range

Salaried: €2,400 - €4,000 (Netherlands) gross per month (varies by industry, region, and experience).

Compare salaries across careers.

Education and preparation

Education level for Soldier: MBO/HBO/WO.

Focus on practical experience, internships, and specializations that fit this field.

RIASEC profile for this career

Top profile: Realistic (90%), followed by Social (70%).

Scores: R 90 • I 20 • A 20 • S 70 • E 50 • C 20

About the Soldier career

Being a soldier means dedicating yourself to protecting your country and its interests through military service. This role involves participating in a wide range of operations, from peacekeeping missions abroad to national defense tasks at home. The work can be physically demanding and mentally challenging, requiring resilience, discipline, and a strong sense of duty. You will often operate in diverse environments and under stressful conditions, where teamwork and quick decision-making are vital.

This career suits individuals who thrive in structured settings and enjoy active, hands-on roles. If you are someone who values camaraderie, has a strong sense of responsibility, and is willing to face physical and mental challenges, a career as a soldier could be fulfilling. It is also ideal for those who want to serve their country while developing leadership skills and gaining a variety of practical experiences.

A working day as a Soldier

A typical day as a soldier can vary greatly depending on your specific role and deployment location, but it generally starts early with physical training to maintain fitness and readiness. After this, you might engage in drills, tactical exercises, or maintenance of equipment and weapons. Training is continuous to ensure you are prepared for any situation, whether it is combat, peacekeeping, or humanitarian assistance.

Throughout the day, you work closely with your squad or unit, relying on teamwork and communication to complete missions safely and effectively. Soldiers often collaborate with other branches of the military, such as intelligence or logistics, as well as with allied forces during international operations. This cooperation is essential to coordinate strategies and share vital information.

In addition to active missions, your duties may include patrolling assigned areas to maintain security, conducting reconnaissance to gather intelligence, or assisting in disaster relief efforts. The work environment can be unpredictable, ranging from base camps to remote or hostile locations, requiring adaptability and mental toughness. You may also spend time preparing reports and attending briefings to stay informed about ongoing operations and updates.

Tasks and responsibilities

• Conduct physical fitness training to maintain operational readiness.
• Participate in tactical drills and simulations to develop combat skills.
• Perform patrols to secure designated areas and gather intelligence.
• Maintain and inspect weapons, vehicles, and equipment to ensure functionality.
• Collaborate with team members and other military units during missions.
• Follow strict orders and protocols to maintain discipline and safety.
• Assist in humanitarian aid or disaster relief operations when deployed.

Skills and traits

Physical fitness

Being physically fit is essential because soldiers must endure demanding tasks and harsh environments. Good fitness helps you perform effectively and reduces the risk of injury during operations.

Teamwork

Military tasks require close cooperation with others, so you must work well in a team to achieve common goals. Trust and clear communication with your comrades are critical for safety and mission success.

Discipline

Following orders and adhering to strict protocols ensures the smooth operation of military activities. Discipline helps maintain focus and control, especially in high-pressure situations.

Resilience

You will face stressful and sometimes dangerous conditions, so mental toughness is necessary to cope with challenges. Resilience allows you to recover quickly and keep performing under adversity.

Leadership

Even at early stages, soldiers may need to motivate and guide others during missions. Developing leadership skills helps you take initiative and support your team effectively.

Adaptability

The military environment is often unpredictable, requiring you to adjust plans and actions quickly. Being flexible helps you respond to changing circumstances and unexpected events.

Which personality fits?

Your RIASEC profile shows a strong Realistic component at 85%, indicating that you prefer practical, hands-on work involving physical activity and tangible results. This suits the soldier’s role well, as it demands action-oriented tasks and working with equipment and tools in real-world conditions. The Realistic trait reflects a preference for structured environments where clear rules and procedures guide your work.

The Enterprising score of 70% suggests you enjoy leadership and influencing others, which is important in military roles where taking charge and motivating your team are often necessary. The Social aspect at 60% means you value working with people and contributing to group objectives, aligning with the collaborative nature of military service. Lower scores in Investigative, Conventional, and Artistic areas indicate that this career is less focused on abstract thinking, routine office tasks, or creative expression, emphasizing instead action, leadership, and teamwork.

Education and route

Entering the military as a soldier typically requires a vocational (MBO) level education or equivalent, but many armed forces also welcome candidates with applied bachelor's (HBO) or university (WO) degrees depending on the role and specialization. The educational requirements can vary by country and military branch, but a general high school diploma or equivalent is usually the minimum. Additional specialized training is provided during basic training and throughout your career.

Basic training is a crucial phase where you learn essential military skills, physical conditioning, and discipline. Beyond this, soldiers often receive ongoing instruction in weapons handling, tactics, first aid, and technical skills related to their specific duties. Internships or practical placements are not typical in the traditional sense but deployment and field exercises serve as hands-on training experiences.

While there are no specific degree programs required universally for soldiers, pursuing studies in areas such as security, defense studies, or leadership can be beneficial for career advancement. Some individuals choose to enter the military after completing higher education, which can open opportunities for officer training programs or specialized roles within the armed forces. Continuous professional development is encouraged to enhance skills and qualifications over time.

Pay and career progression

Salary for soldiers depends on various factors including experience, rank, and the specific military branch or sector you serve in. Pay can also vary significantly by country and region, reflecting differences in government budgets and living costs. Additional allowances or benefits may be provided for deployments, hazardous duties, or specialized skills.

Career progression typically follows a structured path from enlisted ranks to non-commissioned officer and potentially commissioned officer roles if you pursue further education and leadership training. Advancement depends on performance, experience, and completion of required courses or qualifications. With time, you may take on more responsibility, lead larger teams, or specialize in technical or strategic areas within the military.

Where do you work?

Military bases

Permanent or temporary bases where soldiers train, maintain equipment, and prepare for operations.

Field deployments

Locations abroad or in conflict zones where soldiers carry out missions and maintain security.

Training centers

Facilities dedicated to physical conditioning, tactical exercises, and skill development.

Government defense agencies

Offices where strategic planning, intelligence analysis, and administrative tasks are performed.

Disaster relief sites

Areas affected by natural or man-made disasters where soldiers assist in humanitarian aid and recovery efforts.

Pros and cons

Pros

• Opportunity to serve your country and contribute to national security.
• Develop strong discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills.
• Varied and active work environment with physical challenges.
• Access to ongoing training and career development.

Cons

• Work can be physically and mentally demanding, involving risk.
• Long periods away from family and home during deployments.
• Strict hierarchy and limited personal freedom during service.
• Potential exposure to dangerous or stressful situations.

The future of this career

The role of soldiers is evolving with advancements in technology such as drones, cyber warfare, and enhanced communication systems, which are changing how military operations are conducted. Soldiers increasingly need to be proficient not only in physical combat but also in operating sophisticated equipment and adapting to new forms of warfare.

Societal changes also influence the military, with greater emphasis on peacekeeping, humanitarian missions, and cooperation between international forces. This broadens the scope of duties for soldiers and requires them to be versatile, culturally aware, and skilled in diplomacy as well as combat.

Does Soldier suit you?

• Do you enjoy physical activity and challenging your endurance?
• Are you comfortable working in a structured and disciplined environment?
• Do you like working closely with a team towards common goals?
• Can you stay calm and focused under pressure or in stressful situations?
• Are you motivated by serving others and contributing to a larger cause?

Frequently asked questions about Soldier

What education do I need to become a soldier?

Typically, a high school diploma or vocational level education is required, but many military forces accept candidates with higher education as well. Basic training and ongoing military instruction provide the specific skills needed for the role.

Is the work physically demanding?

Yes, being a soldier involves regular physical training and the ability to perform tasks in challenging environments. Maintaining good fitness is essential for success and safety in this career.

What kind of pay can I expect?

Pay varies widely depending on your country, rank, experience, and specific military branch. Additional benefits or allowances may also be provided, especially during deployments or for specialized roles.

Can I advance my career within the military?

Yes, there are clear paths for promotion and specialization based on performance, training, and education. Opportunities exist to move into leadership positions or technical fields as you gain experience.

How demanding is the workload?

The workload can be intense, especially during deployments or training periods, with long hours and physically or mentally stressful tasks. However, there are also periods of rest and routine duties depending on your assignment.

Can I become a soldier if I want to change careers?

Many people join the military as a second career, and prior experience or education can be valuable. You will still need to complete basic training and meet physical and medical requirements, but the military often welcomes career changers.

Next step

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