What Jobs Can You Do Without a Diploma in the Netherlands

Are you living in the Netherlands and looking for a job, but don’t have a diploma or official certificate? Don’t worry – there are many job opportunities in the Netherlands that don’t require a diploma. Whether you’re a newcomer or a temporary worker, you can still find stable work and start earning quickly.

In this guide, we’ll explain:

Which jobs are possible without a diploma
What skills or experience help you
How to find these jobs
What to expect from the salary and working conditions

Why the Netherlands Offers Jobs Without Diplomas

In the Netherlands, your motivation and work ethic often matter more than paperwork. Many employers are happy to train you on the job. As long as you are reliable, can follow instructions, and are willing to learn, you can get started.

Top Jobs You Can Do Without a Diploma

Here are some of the most common and accessible jobs for people without formal education:

1. Warehouse Worker (Magazijnmedewerker)

Picking, packing, and moving products
No experience needed, training on the job
Often full-time with shifts (day/evening/night)

Popular employers: PostNL, DHL, Albert Heijn distribution centers

2. Production Line Operator (Productiemedewerker)

Working on factory lines (e.g. food, electronics, packaging)
Simple tasks: sorting, labeling, quality checks
Standing work, often in teams

Tip: Clean working clothes and safety shoes are usually provided.

3. Cleaning Staff (Schoonmaker/Schoonmaakster)

Offices, hotels, schools, or private homes
Flexible hours (morning/evening)
No experience required, but speed and precision help

4. Agricultural Work (Tuinbouw/Oogstmedewerker)

Greenhouses: picking tomatoes, cucumbers, flowers
Fields: harvesting vegetables or fruit
Often seasonal, physical work

Advantage: Many agencies offer housing and transport.

5. Food Industry Helper

Packing meat, fish, or vegetables
Keeping the work area clean
Often colder environments – jackets provided

6. Hotel & Hospitality Assistant

Housekeeping, dishwashing, or kitchen help
Tourist areas and hotels often accept international staff
Basic English is usually enough

7. Mover or Delivery Helper

Helping during house or office moves
Lifting and carrying furniture or boxes
Working in small teams, often per job/project

Do These Jobs Pay Well?

These are entry-level jobs, but the wages are usually fair. In 2025, the minimum wage in the Netherlands is around €13.27 per hour (gross). Some sectors pay better, especially for night shifts or weekend work.

Most jobs come with:

Weekly or monthly salary
Paid breaks
Holiday allowance (8%)
Extra pay for overtime or night hours

What You Do Need (Even Without a Diploma)

To work in the Netherlands legally, you need:

BSN number (citizen service number)
Valid ID or passport
Health insurance
Bank account
Often: basic English or Dutch

If you come through a temporary agency (uitzendbureau), they usually help you with these steps.

Where Can You Find These Jobs?

Here are some good starting points:

➤ Job websites:

➤ Facebook groups:

Romanians in the Netherlands
Jobs in the Netherlands (no experience)

➤ Temporary work agencies (Uitzendbureaus):

Many specialize in foreign workers and offer housing and transport.

Final Tips

Always ask for a work contract
Avoid working “black” (illegal), you risk fines or deportation
Don’t be afraid to start small – many people grow into better roles!

What Jobs Can You Do Without a Diploma in the Netherlands