Careers for Holland code IRS

15 careers · typical salary €4,000 gross per month (Netherlands)

The Holland code IRS stands for Investigative, Realistic, and Social. This combination describes people who enjoy solving problems, working with practical tasks, and helping others. It is part of the Holland RIASEC model, which matches careers to personality types based on six codes: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional.

If your strongest interest is Investigative, followed by Realistic and then Social, you likely prefer work that involves analyzing information, hands-on activities, and collaborating with others. Careers fitting this profile often include science, technology, and health-related roles where you can apply knowledge to real-world issues and support people or communities.

This page lists 15 careers that suit the IRS code. Most require applied bachelor's or university education, with one career accessible through vocational training. The typical gross monthly salary in the Netherlands for these roles is around €4,000, with starting salaries near €2,800 and higher salaries up to about €5,200.

Not sure which career fits you? Take the free career test

All 15 careers

What is the work like?

Jobs for the IRS code usually involve investigating facts, working with tools or technology, and interacting with others to solve problems or improve situations. For example, as an Agricultural Consultant, you might analyze soil and crops to advise farmers, combining scientific knowledge with practical solutions and client communication.

Other careers like Ecologist or Environmental Scientist focus on studying natural environments and finding ways to protect them. These roles require both investigative skills to conduct research and social skills to work with organizations or communities. Some positions, such as Clinical Laboratory Technician or Orthopedic Surgeon, involve working in healthcare, where precise technical work and patient interaction are important.

Who fits these careers?

If you identify with the IRS code, you probably enjoy understanding how things work and applying that knowledge in hands-on ways. You like to solve problems based on facts and data, and you feel comfortable working with people when you can share your expertise or teach.

You may prefer structured environments where you can focus on concrete tasks but also appreciate teamwork and helping others. This combination suits people who are curious, practical, and caring, and who like to see the real-world impact of their work.

Education and route

Most careers matching the IRS code require higher education. Thirteen of the listed careers need applied bachelor's degrees, while twelve require university degrees. These programs often combine theory with practical training, preparing you for research, technical tasks, and professional practice.

Only one career on this list, Department for Environment Employee, is accessible through vocational training. This shows that many IRS careers demand advanced education, especially in fields like environmental science, agriculture, and healthcare. Choosing the right education path depends on your interests and the specific career you want to pursue.

Salary

Salaries for IRS careers in the Netherlands typically range from €2,800 to about €5,200 gross per month. The median salary is around €4,000. Entry-level positions tend to start near €2,800, while more experienced professionals can earn up to €5,200.

Some careers, like the Surgeon, have higher salaries ranging from €7,000 to €14,000, but this role requires extensive education and training beyond the usual applied bachelor's or university degrees. Understanding typical salaries can help you plan your career and education choices realistically.

Tips for choosing

  • Explore careers that combine science and helping others to find a good fit for your IRS code.
  • Consider applied bachelor's or university programs in environmental science, agriculture, or healthcare.
  • Gain practical experience through internships or volunteering to understand the hands-on aspects of these jobs.
  • Talk to professionals in fields like ecology or clinical laboratory work to learn about daily tasks and challenges.
  • Use your investigative skills to research education requirements and job prospects before deciding on a career path.

See also

Frequently asked questions

What does the IRS Holland code mean?

IRS stands for Investigative, Realistic, and Social. It describes people who like to solve problems using facts, work with practical tasks, and help others. This code helps match your personality to suitable careers.

What kinds of jobs fit the IRS code?

Jobs that involve research, hands-on work, and social interaction fit the IRS code. Examples include Agricultural Consultant, Ecologist, Clinical Laboratory Technician, and Orthopedic Surgeon.

What education do IRS careers usually require?

Most IRS careers need applied bachelor's or university degrees. Only one career on the list requires vocational training. Education often combines theory with practical skills in science or healthcare.

What is the typical salary for IRS careers in the Netherlands?

Typical gross monthly salaries range from €2,800 for entry-level jobs to about €5,200 for experienced roles. Some specialized careers like Surgeon have higher salaries but need more education.

How can I prepare for a career with the IRS code?

Focus on studying science and practical subjects, gain experience through internships, and develop both your problem-solving and communication skills. Research specific careers to understand their education and job requirements.