Findind a job in Rotterdam

How to find a job in Rotterdam

Finding a job in Rotterdam can be relatively straightforward if you know where to look and use several methods at the same time.

Employment agencies are widely used in the Netherlands, particularly for temporary work in sectors such as logistics, production, hospitality and administration. However, you should also use online job portals, company websites, LinkedIn and your personal network.

If you are new to the Netherlands, make sure you understand whether you are allowed to work here and arrange your BSN number as soon as possible.

Using employment agencies in Rotterdam

Temporary employment agencies, known as uitzendbureaus, are an important part of the Dutch labour market.

You register with the agency, provide your CV and explain what kind of work you are looking for. The agency can then introduce you to companies that need staff.

If you work through an agency, the employment agency is normally your official employer, while you perform your day-to-day work at another company. The agency is responsible for matters such as your employment contract and wages. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Employment agencies can be particularly useful when you have recently arrived in Rotterdam, have limited professional contacts in the Netherlands or are looking for temporary work while searching for a longer-term position.

See our separate guide to employment agencies in Rotterdam for agencies and job portals you can use.

Where to look for jobs in Rotterdam

Do not depend on a single website or agency. The best approach is to combine several channels.

UWV also recommends registering with job sites and employment agencies, using your personal network and sending open applications directly to employers. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Jobs if you do not speak Dutch

Not speaking Dutch does not necessarily prevent you from finding work in Rotterdam. The city has many international companies and a large logistics and maritime sector where English is commonly used.

Your options depend heavily on your profession. English-speaking jobs are more common in international business, technology, logistics, engineering and some hospitality roles.

For other jobs, particularly positions involving customers, public services or local administration, Dutch can significantly improve your chances.

If you plan to stay in the Netherlands, take a look at our guide on learning Dutch in Rotterdam.

Prepare your CV for the Dutch job market

Your CV should be clear, easy to scan and adapted to the job you are applying for.

• keep your experience and qualifications relevant to the vacancy
• use keywords from the job description where they genuinely match your experience
• make your contact details easy to find
• mention the languages you speak
• check spelling and formatting carefully
• update your LinkedIn profile at the same time

You do not need to fill your CV with keywords that do not describe your real experience. The aim is to make it easy for both recruiters and recruitment systems to understand why you fit the position.

Preparing for a job interview

If an employer or agency invites you to an interview, prepare a few examples that demonstrate your experience and explain why you are interested in the position.

Before the interview:

• read the vacancy again
• research the company
• prepare examples of your experience
• think about questions you want to ask
• be ready to explain why you want the job

You can find more detailed advice in our guide on job interviews in the Netherlands.

Check your contract before accepting a job

Before accepting a job, make sure you understand the contract and employment conditions.

Check your:

• gross salary
• contracted working hours
• holiday entitlement and holiday allowance
• trial period
• notice conditions
• travel allowance
• pension arrangements where applicable
• any housing deductions if accommodation is provided by an agency or employer

If you work through an employment agency, your agreement may contain specific rules about how and when the assignment can end. Agency workers are also protected by Dutch employment rules and applicable collective agreements. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Read our guide on employment contracts in the Netherlands before signing.

A practical job search strategy

Things to arrange when moving to the Netherlands

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