Operator in work coat near rolling metal in an industrial environment
Operator in work coat near rolling metal in an industrial environment

Working as an Operator

Are you technically inclined, enjoy working with machines, and looking for a stable role with growth opportunities? Then working as an Operator is a natural choice.

At PDZ, we help you find an Operator position that matches your profile. Whether you're a beginner, already experienced, or considering a career change, we provide personalized support to ensure a smooth landing.

Becoming an Operator without experience or diploma

You don’t always need a diploma or years of experience. What is important:

  • Interest in technology and production
  • A practical and precise way of working
  • Willingness to learn

Many companies provide internal training, and we offer guidance. Even without a diploma, you can start as an Operator with earnings averaging between €2,400 and €3,200 per month. Positions include:

  • Junior Operator
  • Machine Operator / Line Operator
  • Operator in 5‑shift or day-only schedules
Personal conversation between recruiter and candidate at the office

Complete your Operator training and grow

Want to advance to a higher level or broaden your skills? That’s possible. We assist you in planning for the long term. We help you grow within the field, or through further training toward roles such as:

  • Process Operator
  • Production Team Leader
  • Technical Operator (PLC, maintenance)

PDZ offers support and collaborates with employers who invest in their staff. Through secondment, you combine job security with flexibility.

Smiling operator working with wooden panels in a woodworking company

What does an Operator do?

An Operator works in a production environment and typically:

  • Operates machines and equipment
  • Addresses minor malfunctions
  • Checks product quality
  • Ensures an efficient and safe process

There are various Operator roles, such as Process Operators, Line Operators, and Machine Attendants. Exact duties vary by sector and position.

Where can you work as an Operator?

Work for top employers in the industrial sector! Through PDZ, you can start working as an operator at various companies across multiple industries. We collaborate with well-known clients in the food industry, pharmaceutical sector, and technical production. This means you can get started right away at companies such as:

Logo client Ahold Delhaize Coffee Company
Logo client Van Wijngaarden
Logo client Sortiva
Logo client Crown van Gelder
Logo client KLM Catering Services Schiphol
Logo client Cebo
Logo client Lassie
Logo client Goglio
Man smiling with a cup of coffee at the office

Vacancies for you

PDZ operates throughout the Netherlands. We work with production companies in the following sectors:

  • Technology and metalworking
  • Food industry
  • Packaging & logistics
  • Chemical and pharmaceutical industries

📌 We offer operator jobs in regions such as North Holland, Utrecht, Brabant, Flevoland, and Limburg. Check out the latest vacancies in your area now!

View all operator vacancies

Success stories

Mehmet stands in front of a PDZ location, ready to grow as an operator
"I want to get the best out of myself and not waste any more time."

Mehmet is currently taking a technical training course to continue developing himself and growing in his career. His Operator contract became permanent, but he's not done growing yet. Through us, he’s now completing the Operator A certification, with plans to move straight on to Operator B.

Danylo works as an operator in a technical workspace with a desk and monitors, visibly proud of his workplace
“I appreciate the clear processes and the support from my colleagues, as my Dutch isn’t perfect yet."

Danylo came to the Netherlands from Ukraine and now works as an operator in the metal industry. Through PDZ, he was able to start working quickly and was given the opportunity to take a forklift training course.

Katarzyna is smiling while working at a machine in a production environment, happy with the job she found through PDZ
“During my intake, the recruiter really wanted to understand me and found the best workplace for me.”

Katarzyna enjoys her role as an operator in the furniture industry, and her contract has since been taken over. She loves working with natural materials and appreciates the positive atmosphere on the work floor.

Request a no‑obligation career advice session

Curious, but not quite ready to apply?

Request a no-obligation career advice session and discover whether this role is truly the right fit for you. We’re happy to tell you more about the position and offer tailored advice based on your preferences. Leave your contact details, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Request career advice:

No obligations, just a good conversation!

Operators in white coats operate a packaging machine together in a clean production environment

What sets PDZ apart as an employment agency?

PDZ focuses entirely on you. Whether you’re just entering the job market or ready for a fresh career move, we stand by your side. With a personalized approach, we get to know your talents, motivations, and ambitions. We help you advance with training plans and, thanks to our local presence, find work close to home that suits you.

PDZ is more than an employment agency, we're a collective that believes in moving forward together. You can feel this in the warm culture, our social responsibility, and the variety we offer. Because job satisfaction begins with work that challenges and energizes you.

Frequently asked questions about working as an Operator

Do I need experience to become an Operator?

No, for many positions you can start without prior experience. We're mainly looking for people who are technically minded, reliable, and eager to learn.

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Do I need a diploma?

A technical diploma is a plus, but definitely not a must. Most of our clients offer in-house training programs to teach you everything you need to know on the job.

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What does an operator earn on average?

On average, gross monthly salaries range between €2.400 and €3.200. With shift or night work, you’ll often receive extra pay. Your exact salary depends on your experience, the industry, and your location.

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Do I have to work in shifts?

Many positions are in 2-, 3-, or 5-shift schedules, but there are also roles available in regular daytime hours. We’ll work with you to find what best fits your personal situation.

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Which industries can you work in as an operator?

Operators are active in sectors such as:

  • Food industry
  • Chemical and pharmaceutical industries
  • Metal and engineering
  • Logistics and packaging
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How quickly can I get started?

If you're available, you can sometimes start within just a few days. We'll guide you through the entire application process from start to finish.

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Intercedent glimlacht tijdens een gesprek met een kandidaat

Ask us about one of our vacancies

Wondering if the role of operator is right for you? Or curious about the opportunities available in your region? Get in touch with your nearest PDZ location. We’re happy to make time for a personal conversation to answer all your questions.

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