How Much Can You Earn as a CNC Machinist or Welder in the Netherlands?
The Dutch metal and manufacturing industry is facing a persistent shortage of qualified technical workers — and that means competitive pay, strong benefits, and excellent job security for skilled professionals. Whether you’re a CNC operator, turner, miller, programmer, or welder, the Netherlands offers some of the best earning opportunities in Europe.
This guide breaks down real salaries for CNC and welding jobs in the Netherlands in 2026, based on current job market data, recruitment agency rates, and official Dutch salary surveys.
CNC Salaries in the Netherlands 2026
The CNC sector is one of the most active areas for international recruitment in the Netherlands. Dutch precision engineering, automotive supply chains, semiconductor equipment manufacturing (think ASML, VDL, NTS), and high-tech production all depend heavily on skilled CNC professionals. Your pay depends on the role, the control system you work with, and your level of independence.
CNC Operator
A CNC Operator runs CNC machines (lathes, mills, or press brakes) based on pre-set programs. The operator loads materials, monitors the machining process, performs quality checks, and makes minor adjustments. This is the entry point into the CNC profession.
| Experience level | Gross per hour | Gross per month | Net per week (40h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–2 years) | €14.71 – €16.50 | €2,350 – €2,640 | €430 – €480 |
| Mid (2–5 years) | €16.50 – €19.00 | €2,640 – €3,040 | €480 – €550 |
| Experienced (5+ years) | €19.00 – €22.00 | €3,040 – €3,520 | €550 – €620 |
Most CNC operator positions through recruitment agencies offer €480–€600 net per week for 40 hours, often with accommodation included or arranged at a subsidised rate. Common control systems: Fanuc, Siemens (Sinumerik), Heidenhain, Okuma OSP, Mazak.
CNC Turner
A CNC Turner operates and sets up CNC lathes and turning centres. This role requires more independence than a basic operator — turners read technical drawings, select tooling, set up machines from scratch, and produce precision-turned components to tight tolerances. Knowledge of specific control systems (Fanuc, Okuma, Siemens) is essential.
| Experience level | Gross per hour | Gross per month | Net per week (40h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid (2–5 years) | €17.00 – €20.00 | €2,720 – €3,200 | €500 – €570 |
| Senior (5+ years) | €20.00 – €24.00 | €3,200 – €3,840 | €570 – €680 |
| Turner/Programmer | €22.00 – €27.00 | €3,520 – €4,320 | €620 – €750 |
CNC Turners who can independently program (Fanuc or Siemens) are among the most sought-after profiles in the Netherlands right now. Weekly net rates of €600–€700 are standard for experienced turner/programmers. Positions are available across Brabant, Zeeland, and South Holland.
CNC Miller
A CNC Miller operates CNC milling machines to produce precision components from metal, plastic, or composite materials. Millers work with 3-axis, 4-axis, or 5-axis machines and need strong knowledge of tooling, feeds and speeds, and technical drawing interpretation. Heidenhain TNC and Fanuc are the dominant control systems in Dutch workshops.
| Experience level | Gross per hour | Gross per month | Net per week (40h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid (2–5 years) | €17.00 – €20.00 | €2,720 – €3,200 | €500 – €570 |
| Senior (5+ years) | €20.00 – €24.00 | €3,200 – €3,840 | €570 – €680 |
| Miller/Programmer | €22.00 – €27.00 | €3,520 – €4,320 | €620 – €750 |
5-axis CNC millers with Heidenhain experience are exceptionally sought after, especially in the Eindhoven high-tech region. The semiconductor equipment supply chain (ASML, VDL, NTS) drives constant demand for precision milling specialists.
CNC CAD/CAM Programmer
A CNC CAD/CAM Programmer creates machining programs using dedicated software (Mastercam, SolidCAM, Hypermill, NX CAM), translates technical drawings into optimised toolpaths, and fine-tunes programs on the shop floor. This is the highest-paid CNC role, combining deep programming skills with hands-on machining knowledge.
| Experience level | Gross per hour | Gross per month | Net per week (40h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid (3–5 years) | €22.00 – €28.00 | €3,520 – €4,480 | €620 – €780 |
| Senior (5+ years) | €28.00 – €34.00 | €4,480 – €5,440 | €780 – €920 |
| Lead / Specialist | €34.00+ | €5,440+ | €920+ |
CNC Salary Summary
| Role | Net/week (40h) | Net/month | Annual gross |
|---|---|---|---|
| CNC Operator (entry) | €430 – €480 | €1,720 – €1,920 | €28,000 – €32,000 |
| CNC Operator (experienced) | €550 – €620 | €2,200 – €2,480 | €36,000 – €42,000 |
| CNC Turner (mid) | €500 – €570 | €2,000 – €2,280 | €33,000 – €38,000 |
| CNC Turner/Programmer | €620 – €750 | €2,480 – €3,000 | €42,000 – €52,000 |
| CNC Miller (mid) | €500 – €570 | €2,000 – €2,280 | €33,000 – €38,000 |
| CNC Miller/Programmer | €620 – €750 | €2,480 – €3,000 | €42,000 – €52,000 |
| CAD/CAM Programmer (senior) | €780 – €920 | €3,120 – €3,680 | €54,000 – €72,000 |
Welding Salaries in the Netherlands 2026
The Netherlands has a strong and growing demand for welders across multiple sectors: metal fabrication, shipbuilding, offshore wind energy, food-grade stainless steel manufacturing, construction, and automotive. The welding method you specialise in directly affects your earning potential.
MIG/MAG Welder
MIG/MAG welding (process 135/136) is the most common welding method in the Netherlands. It is widely used in steel construction, machine building, automotive parts, and general fabrication. MIG/MAG welders work with carbon steel and stainless steel on structural components, frames, and assemblies.
| Experience level | Gross per hour | Gross per month | Net per week (40h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (1–2 years) | €14.71 – €16.50 | €2,350 – €2,640 | €430 – €480 |
| Mid (2–5 years) | €16.50 – €19.00 | €2,640 – €3,040 | €480 – €560 |
| Experienced (5+ years) | €19.00 – €22.00 | €3,040 – €3,520 | €560 – €650 |
Most recruitment agencies offer MIG/MAG welders €500–€650 net per week for 40 hours, with free accommodation and transport arranged. Overtime (frequently available in this sector) can increase your take-home pay by €100–€200 per week.
TIG Welder
TIG welding (process 141) is a precision technique used for stainless steel (RVS), aluminium, and thin-walled components. TIG welders command higher rates due to the advanced skill level required. This method is essential in food processing equipment, pharmaceutical piping, shipbuilding, and aerospace supply chains.
| Experience level | Gross per hour | Gross per month | Net per week (40h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid (2–5 years) | €17.00 – €21.00 | €2,720 – €3,360 | €500 – €600 |
| Experienced (5+ years) | €21.00 – €25.00 | €3,360 – €4,000 | €600 – €720 |
| Specialist (pipe/6G) | €25.00 – €30.00 | €4,000 – €4,800 | €720 – €850 |
Multi-Process Welder (MIG/MAG + TIG)
Welders who master both MIG/MAG and TIG techniques are the most versatile and valued professionals in the Dutch job market. They can switch between processes depending on the project — from heavy structural steel to precision stainless work — making them ideal for diverse fabrication environments.
| Experience level | Gross per hour | Gross per month | Net per week (40h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid level | €18.00 – €22.00 | €2,880 – €3,520 | €520 – €630 |
| Experienced | €22.00 – €27.00 | €3,520 – €4,320 | €630 – €780 |
Multi-process welders have the strongest negotiating position and the widest range of job options in the Netherlands. If you’re currently a MIG/MAG welder, investing in TIG certification can increase your weekly earnings by €100–€200.
Welding Salary Summary
| Role | Net/week (40h) | Net/month | Annual gross |
|---|---|---|---|
| MIG/MAG Welder (entry) | €430 – €480 | €1,720 – €1,920 | €28,000 – €32,000 |
| MIG/MAG Welder (experienced) | €560 – €650 | €2,240 – €2,600 | €36,000 – €42,000 |
| TIG Welder (mid) | €500 – €600 | €2,000 – €2,400 | €33,000 – €40,000 |
| TIG Welder (specialist/pipe) | €720 – €850 | €2,880 – €3,400 | €48,000 – €58,000 |
| Multi-process MIG+TIG (experienced) | €630 – €780 | €2,520 – €3,120 | €42,000 – €52,000 |
What’s Included Beyond Your Salary?
When working in the Netherlands through a recruitment agency like NB Recruitment, your total compensation package typically includes much more than your base pay:
- Holiday allowance (vakantiegeld): 8% of your annual gross salary, paid out once a year (usually May or June). This is a legal right for every employee in the Netherlands. At €3,000 gross/month, that’s an extra ~€2,880 per year.
- Accommodation: Many employers provide free or subsidised housing — fully furnished, with Wi-Fi, located close to your workplace. Housing through an agency typically saves €400–€600/month compared to renting independently.
- Health insurance: Mandatory Dutch health insurance arranged by the employer or agency. Basic coverage costs approximately €130–€160/month.
- Travel allowance: Standard compensation of €0.21/km for distances over 10 km between home and work.
- Pension contributions: Employers contribute to your Dutch pension fund on top of your salary.
- Overtime and shift premiums: Evening, night, and weekend shifts typically pay 120–150% of your standard hourly rate.
Which Regions Pay the Most?
Salaries for CNC and welding positions vary by region, driven by the concentration of manufacturing and the type of work available.
| Region | Key industries | Pay level |
|---|---|---|
| Eindhoven / North Brabant | High-tech, semiconductor supply chain, precision CNC | Highest |
| Rotterdam / South Holland | Shipbuilding, offshore, pipe welding | Highest |
| Zeeland | Heavy industry, steel fabrication, prefab welding | High |
| Tilburg / Breda area | General CNC, welding, automotive | High |
| Limburg | Automotive, general metalwork | Average |
| Gelderland / Overijssel | Agricultural equipment, lighter CNC | Average |
How to Get Started — Working in the Netherlands as an EU Citizen
As an EU citizen, you have the full right to work in the Netherlands without a work permit. Here’s what you need:
- A valid EU passport or ID card
- Your CV in English — including your CNC control systems or welding methods and certifications
- BSN number — your Dutch citizen service number, arranged within the first days after arrival
- Health insurance — mandatory, typically organised by your employer or recruitment agency
- A reliable recruitment partner — like NB Recruitment, connecting EU workers with verified employers in the Netherlands and Germany
No work permit needed: EU citizens can start working in the Netherlands immediately. NB Recruitment handles the paperwork — BSN registration, employment contract, accommodation, and health insurance — so you can focus on the job.Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Dutch language skills to work as a CNC machinist or welder?
For most CNC and welding positions, Dutch is not required at entry level. English is widely spoken in workshops and on production floors, especially in international manufacturing environments. However, Dutch language skills open doors to team leader roles and faster salary progression.
Are certifications recognised in the Netherlands?
Yes. EU welding certifications (EN ISO 9606) and CNC training certificates are recognised. Specific certifications like 6G pipe welding (TIG) are highly valued and directly increase your earning potential. If you have a VCA safety certificate from another EU country, it is generally accepted.
How quickly can I start working?
With NB Recruitment, the process from application to first day of work typically takes 2–4 weeks. We handle accommodation, contract, and BSN registration so you can arrive ready to start.
Is accommodation provided?
Many of our client companies provide housing for technical workers. Accommodation is typically fully furnished, close to the workplace, and offered at a subsidised rate (max. €199.43/month deducted from salary under Dutch law).
This salary guide is based on data from ERI Economic Research Institute, SalaryExpert, PayScale, Glassdoor Netherlands, current Dutch job postings, and real recruitment agency rates as of Q1–Q2 2026. All figures represent typical ranges and may vary based on individual qualifications, employer, and region. Net salary estimates assume standard Dutch tax rates for single employees without the 30% ruling.
How Much Can You Earn as a CNC Machinist or Welder in the Netherlands?
The Dutch metal and manufacturing industry is facing a persistent shortage of qualified technical workers — and that means competitive pay, strong benefits, and excellent job security for skilled professionals. Whether you’re a CNC operator, turner, miller, programmer, or welder, the Netherlands offers some of the best earning opportunities in Europe.
This guide breaks down real salaries for CNC and welding jobs in the Netherlands in 2026, based on current job market data, recruitment agency rates, and official Dutch salary surveys.
CNC Salaries in the Netherlands 2026
The CNC sector is one of the most active areas for international recruitment in the Netherlands. Dutch precision engineering, automotive supply chains, semiconductor equipment manufacturing (think ASML, VDL, NTS), and high-tech production all depend heavily on skilled CNC professionals. Your pay depends on the role, the control system you work with, and your level of independence.
CNC Operator
A CNC Operator runs CNC machines (lathes, mills, or press brakes) based on pre-set programs. The operator loads materials, monitors the machining process, performs quality checks, and makes minor adjustments. This is the entry point into the CNC profession.
| Experience level | Gross per hour | Gross per month | Net per week (40h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–2 years) | €14.71 – €16.50 | €2,350 – €2,640 | €430 – €480 |
| Mid (2–5 years) | €16.50 – €19.00 | €2,640 – €3,040 | €480 – €550 |
| Experienced (5+ years) | €19.00 – €22.00 | €3,040 – €3,520 | €550 – €620 |
Most CNC operator positions through recruitment agencies offer €480–€600 net per week for 40 hours, often with accommodation included or arranged at a subsidised rate. Common control systems: Fanuc, Siemens (Sinumerik), Heidenhain, Okuma OSP, Mazak.
CNC Turner
A CNC Turner operates and sets up CNC lathes and turning centres. This role requires more independence than a basic operator — turners read technical drawings, select tooling, set up machines from scratch, and produce precision-turned components to tight tolerances. Knowledge of specific control systems (Fanuc, Okuma, Siemens) is essential.
| Experience level | Gross per hour | Gross per month | Net per week (40h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid (2–5 years) | €17.00 – €20.00 | €2,720 – €3,200 | €500 – €570 |
| Senior (5+ years) | €20.00 – €24.00 | €3,200 – €3,840 | €570 – €680 |
| Turner/Programmer | €22.00 – €27.00 | €3,520 – €4,320 | €620 – €750 |
CNC Turners who can independently program (Fanuc or Siemens) are among the most sought-after profiles in the Netherlands right now. Weekly net rates of €600–€700 are standard for experienced turner/programmers. Positions are available across Brabant, Zeeland, and South Holland.
CNC Miller
A CNC Miller operates CNC milling machines to produce precision components from metal, plastic, or composite materials. Millers work with 3-axis, 4-axis, or 5-axis machines and need strong knowledge of tooling, feeds and speeds, and technical drawing interpretation. Heidenhain TNC and Fanuc are the dominant control systems in Dutch workshops.
| Experience level | Gross per hour | Gross per month | Net per week (40h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid (2–5 years) | €17.00 – €20.00 | €2,720 – €3,200 | €500 – €570 |
| Senior (5+ years) | €20.00 – €24.00 | €3,200 – €3,840 | €570 – €680 |
| Miller/Programmer | €22.00 – €27.00 | €3,520 – €4,320 | €620 – €750 |
5-axis CNC millers with Heidenhain experience are exceptionally sought after, especially in the Eindhoven high-tech region. The semiconductor equipment supply chain (ASML, VDL, NTS) drives constant demand for precision milling specialists.
CNC CAD/CAM Programmer
A CNC CAD/CAM Programmer creates machining programs using dedicated software (Mastercam, SolidCAM, Hypermill, NX CAM), translates technical drawings into optimised toolpaths, and fine-tunes programs on the shop floor. This is the highest-paid CNC role, combining deep programming skills with hands-on machining knowledge.
| Experience level | Gross per hour | Gross per month | Net per week (40h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid (3–5 years) | €22.00 – €28.00 | €3,520 – €4,480 | €620 – €780 |
| Senior (5+ years) | €28.00 – €34.00 | €4,480 – €5,440 | €780 – €920 |
| Lead / Specialist | €34.00+ | €5,440+ | €920+ |
CNC Salary Summary
| Role | Net/week (40h) | Net/month | Annual gross |
|---|---|---|---|
| CNC Operator (entry) | €430 – €480 | €1,720 – €1,920 | €28,000 – €32,000 |
| CNC Operator (experienced) | €550 – €620 | €2,200 – €2,480 | €36,000 – €42,000 |
| CNC Turner (mid) | €500 – €570 | €2,000 – €2,280 | €33,000 – €38,000 |
| CNC Turner/Programmer | €620 – €750 | €2,480 – €3,000 | €42,000 – €52,000 |
| CNC Miller (mid) | €500 – €570 | €2,000 – €2,280 | €33,000 – €38,000 |
| CNC Miller/Programmer | €620 – €750 | €2,480 – €3,000 | €42,000 – €52,000 |
| CAD/CAM Programmer (senior) | €780 – €920 | €3,120 – €3,680 | €54,000 – €72,000 |
Welding Salaries in the Netherlands 2026
The Netherlands has a strong and growing demand for welders across multiple sectors: metal fabrication, shipbuilding, offshore wind energy, food-grade stainless steel manufacturing, construction, and automotive. The welding method you specialise in directly affects your earning potential.
MIG/MAG Welder
MIG/MAG welding (process 135/136) is the most common welding method in the Netherlands. It is widely used in steel construction, machine building, automotive parts, and general fabrication. MIG/MAG welders work with carbon steel and stainless steel on structural components, frames, and assemblies.
| Experience level | Gross per hour | Gross per month | Net per week (40h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (1–2 years) | €14.71 – €16.50 | €2,350 – €2,640 | €430 – €480 |
| Mid (2–5 years) | €16.50 – €19.00 | €2,640 – €3,040 | €480 – €560 |
| Experienced (5+ years) | €19.00 – €22.00 | €3,040 – €3,520 | €560 – €650 |
Most recruitment agencies offer MIG/MAG welders €500–€650 net per week for 40 hours, with free accommodation and transport arranged. Overtime (frequently available in this sector) can increase your take-home pay by €100–€200 per week.
TIG Welder
TIG welding (process 141) is a precision technique used for stainless steel (RVS), aluminium, and thin-walled components. TIG welders command higher rates due to the advanced skill level required. This method is essential in food processing equipment, pharmaceutical piping, shipbuilding, and aerospace supply chains.
| Experience level | Gross per hour | Gross per month | Net per week (40h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid (2–5 years) | €17.00 – €21.00 | €2,720 – €3,360 | €500 – €600 |
| Experienced (5+ years) | €21.00 – €25.00 | €3,360 – €4,000 | €600 – €720 |
| Specialist (pipe/6G) | €25.00 – €30.00 | €4,000 – €4,800 | €720 – €850 |
Multi-Process Welder (MIG/MAG + TIG)
Welders who master both MIG/MAG and TIG techniques are the most versatile and valued professionals in the Dutch job market. They can switch between processes depending on the project — from heavy structural steel to precision stainless work — making them ideal for diverse fabrication environments.
| Experience level | Gross per hour | Gross per month | Net per week (40h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid level | €18.00 – €22.00 | €2,880 – €3,520 | €520 – €630 |
| Experienced | €22.00 – €27.00 | €3,520 – €4,320 | €630 – €780 |
Multi-process welders have the strongest negotiating position and the widest range of job options in the Netherlands. If you’re currently a MIG/MAG welder, investing in TIG certification can increase your weekly earnings by €100–€200.
Welding Salary Summary
| Role | Net/week (40h) | Net/month | Annual gross |
|---|---|---|---|
| MIG/MAG Welder (entry) | €430 – €480 | €1,720 – €1,920 | €28,000 – €32,000 |
| MIG/MAG Welder (experienced) | €560 – €650 | €2,240 – €2,600 | €36,000 – €42,000 |
| TIG Welder (mid) | €500 – €600 | €2,000 – €2,400 | €33,000 – €40,000 |
| TIG Welder (specialist/pipe) | €720 – €850 | €2,880 – €3,400 | €48,000 – €58,000 |
| Multi-process MIG+TIG (experienced) | €630 – €780 | €2,520 – €3,120 | €42,000 – €52,000 |
What’s Included Beyond Your Salary?
When working in the Netherlands through a recruitment agency like NB Recruitment, your total compensation package typically includes much more than your base pay:
- Holiday allowance (vakantiegeld): 8% of your annual gross salary, paid out once a year (usually May or June). This is a legal right for every employee in the Netherlands. At €3,000 gross/month, that’s an extra ~€2,880 per year.
- Accommodation: Many employers provide free or subsidised housing — fully furnished, with Wi-Fi, located close to your workplace. Housing through an agency typically saves €400–€600/month compared to renting independently.
- Health insurance: Mandatory Dutch health insurance arranged by the employer or agency. Basic coverage costs approximately €130–€160/month.
- Travel allowance: Standard compensation of €0.21/km for distances over 10 km between home and work.
- Pension contributions: Employers contribute to your Dutch pension fund on top of your salary.
- Overtime and shift premiums: Evening, night, and weekend shifts typically pay 120–150% of your standard hourly rate.
Which Regions Pay the Most?
Salaries for CNC and welding positions vary by region, driven by the concentration of manufacturing and the type of work available.
| Region | Key industries | Pay level |
|---|---|---|
| Eindhoven / North Brabant | High-tech, semiconductor supply chain, precision CNC | Highest |
| Rotterdam / South Holland | Shipbuilding, offshore, pipe welding | Highest |
| Zeeland | Heavy industry, steel fabrication, prefab welding | High |
| Tilburg / Breda area | General CNC, welding, automotive | High |
| Limburg | Automotive, general metalwork | Average |
| Gelderland / Overijssel | Agricultural equipment, lighter CNC | Average |
How to Get Started — Working in the Netherlands as an EU Citizen
As an EU citizen, you have the full right to work in the Netherlands without a work permit. Here’s what you need:
- A valid EU passport or ID card
- Your CV in English — including your CNC control systems or welding methods and certifications
- BSN number — your Dutch citizen service number, arranged within the first days after arrival
- Health insurance — mandatory, typically organised by your employer or recruitment agency
- A reliable recruitment partner — like NB Recruitment, connecting EU workers with verified employers in the Netherlands and Germany
No work permit needed: EU citizens can start working in the Netherlands immediately. Eu Recruitment handles the paperwork — BSN registration, employment contract, accommodation, and health insurance — so you can focus on the job.Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Dutch language skills to work as a CNC machinist or welder?
For most CNC and welding positions, Dutch is not required at entry level. English is widely spoken in workshops and on production floors, especially in international manufacturing environments. However, Dutch language skills open doors to team leader roles and faster salary progression.
Are certifications recognised in the Netherlands?
Yes. EU welding certifications (EN ISO 9606) and CNC training certificates are recognised. Specific certifications like 6G pipe welding (TIG) are highly valued and directly increase your earning potential. If you have a VCA safety certificate from another EU country, it is generally accepted.
How quickly can I start working?
With EU Recruitment, the process from application to first day of work typically takes 2–4 weeks. We handle accommodation, contract, and BSN registration so you can arrive ready to start.
Is accommodation provided?
Many of our client companies provide housing for technical workers. Accommodation is typically fully furnished, close to the workplace, and offered at a subsidised rate (max. €199.43/month deducted from salary under Dutch law).
This salary guide is based on data from ERI Economic Research Institute, SalaryExpert, PayScale, Glassdoor Netherlands, current Dutch job postings, and real recruitment agency rates as of Q1–Q2 2026. All figures represent typical ranges and may vary based on individual qualifications, employer, and region. Net salary estimates assume standard Dutch tax rates for single employees without the 30% ruling.
Ready to start working in the Netherlands?
Send us your CV we’ll match you with the right employer, arrange accommodation, and support you every step of the way.