Careers in engineering

407 careers · typical salary €2,800 gross per month (Netherlands)

Engineering covers a wide range of careers focused on designing, building, and maintaining structures, machines, and systems. You can find roles that involve hands-on work, problem-solving, and technical knowledge across many industries. With 407 engineering careers listed, there are options for different interests and education levels.

Most engineering careers require vocational training, applied bachelor's degrees, or university education. Many jobs involve working with technology, materials, or infrastructure, and often require practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. The typical salary for engineering roles in the Netherlands is around €2,800 gross per month, with starting salaries from about €2,300 and higher pay reaching up to €5,200.

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All 407 careers

What is the work like?

In engineering, you might work as an Acoustical consultant, Aircraft electrotechnician, or Civil Engineering Technician. Some roles focus on construction, like Construction manager or Building design drafter, while others involve maintenance and repair, such as Auto body repair technician or Gas maintenance technician. You may also find careers in research and development, like R&D Scientist or Product specialist.

Your daily tasks could include designing machinery, inspecting installations, or operating specialized equipment. Engineering jobs often require teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to solve technical problems. Depending on the role, you might work in offices, labs, or on-site at construction or manufacturing locations.

Who fits these careers?

Engineering careers often suit people who enjoy working with practical problems and technical details. Many roles fit the Realistic personality type, which means you like hands-on work and working with tools or machines. Investigative types who enjoy analyzing and understanding how things work also find engineering rewarding.

Some engineering jobs require creativity and precision, while others involve managing projects or coordinating teams. You may need to be patient and persistent, as engineering projects can take time and involve complex challenges.

Education and route

To enter engineering careers, you can follow different education routes. Vocational training (MBO) prepares you for technical roles such as Mechanic or Electronic equipment installer and repairer. Applied bachelor's programs (HBO) offer more in-depth knowledge for careers like Chemical engineer or Maritime officer.

University education (WO) is typical for advanced engineering roles such as Nuclear Engineer or Physical engineer. Many careers allow a combination of education levels, for example, Construction manager positions can be accessed with MBO, HBO, or WO qualifications. Choosing the right education depends on your interests and the specific career you want to pursue.

Salary

Salaries for engineering careers in the Netherlands vary depending on the role and education level. Typical monthly gross salaries start around €2,300 for entry-level vocational positions like Assistant engineer aircraft installations or Mechanic (automotive).

With higher education and experience, salaries can increase to about €5,200 per month in roles such as Acoustical consultant, Drilling engineer, or Surveyor. Middle-range salaries for many applied bachelor's and university roles fall around €3,200 to €4,200 gross per month.

Tips for choosing

  • Explore different engineering fields to find what interests you most, such as civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering.
  • Consider your preferred work environment—some jobs are office-based while others require on-site or hands-on work.
  • Gain practical experience through internships or vocational training to understand day-to-day tasks in engineering roles.
  • Talk to professionals in engineering careers to learn about their education paths and daily responsibilities.
  • Keep developing your problem-solving and technical skills, as these are important for success in engineering.

Torn between two careers?

See also

Frequently asked questions

What education do I need to start a career in engineering?

Engineering careers can start from vocational training (MBO), applied bachelor's degrees (HBO), or university education (WO), depending on the job. Technical roles often require MBO, while more complex engineering positions usually need HBO or WO qualifications.

What kind of work can I expect in engineering?

Engineering work varies widely. You might design machinery, inspect installations, repair equipment, or manage construction projects. Tasks often involve problem-solving, teamwork, and using technical tools or software.

Are engineering careers well paid?

Typical salaries in engineering start around €2,300 gross per month for entry-level roles and can rise up to about €5,200 for experienced professionals in advanced positions. Salaries depend on education, experience, and specific job roles.

Which personality types fit engineering careers?

Engineering suits people who enjoy realistic, hands-on work and investigating how things function. If you like solving practical problems and working with technology, engineering could be a good fit.

Can I switch between different engineering fields?

It is possible to move between engineering fields, especially if you have a broad education or relevant experience. Gaining additional training or certifications can help when changing specializations within engineering.