The Netherlands has become a goldmine for engineering professionals, where companies like Uber pay their software engineers an impressive €182,987 on average. This tech powerhouse ranks second globally in online connectivity and keeps drawing the best engineering talent with great pay packages.
This piece breaks down the 10 Top Paying Engineering Jobs in Netherlands. You’ll find detailed salary ranges, qualification requirements, and ways to grow your career in each field.
We analysed hundreds of job posts for each job category to come up with the salary range, required skills and educational qualifications, these job posts and statistics were obtained from reputable sources. These include job sites like Glassdoor, Indeed, and LinkedIn.
Top Paying Engineering Jobs in Netherlands
Software Engineering Manager
Software Engineering Managers play a vital role in the Netherlands tech industry. They lead development teams and blend technical expertise with people management skills. As highly paid engineers, they help their teams complete projects successfully and ensure tech initiatives match business goals.
Salary Range and Benefits
The compensation packages for Software Engineering Managers in the Netherlands reflect their responsibilities. The median total compensation is €137,598, and salaries range from €105,914 to €197,189. Different sources report varying figures based on location, company size, and data collection methods:
| Source | Average/Median Salary | Salary Range | Additional Compensation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glassdoor (Amsterdam) | €109,000 | €97,063 – €130,750 | €12,000 (bonuses/profit sharing) |
| PayScale | €89,147 (2025) | €56,000 – €117,000 | Up to €58,000 (bonuses/profit sharing) |
| Levels.fyi | €137,598 (median) | €105,914 – €197,189 | Included in total compensation |
Educational Requirements and Skills
Companies typically want a bachelor’s degree or higher in Computer Science or related technical fields. Some accept equivalent experience instead. They also look for:
- 5+ years of experience managing engineering teams in SaaS organizations
- Coding skills to understand software development processes
- Deep knowledge of software architecture principles
- Strong leadership abilities to guide and develop teams
- Strategic thinking to spot tech trends early
- Great communication skills and SDLC expertise
Data Engineering Specialist
Data Engineering is one of the highly paid Engineering Jobs. Thier specialists are just what tech companies in the Netherlands need right now. These professionals are the architects who create and maintain the strong data infrastructure that modern businesses rely on. They build reliable data pipelines and make sure data stays accessible, high-quality, and secure throughout organizations.
Salary Range and Benefits
Dutch companies offer competitive pay packages to Data Engineering Specialists based on their technical skills and market value. The average yearly salary falls between €60,000 to €80,000 based on experience and location. New engineers start at around €40,000, while experienced professionals can earn €70,000 or more.
Glassdoor reports that data engineers in Amsterdam earn a median base salary of €65,000 plus roughly €5,000 in yearly bonuses. All the same, company-specific salaries show substantial differences:
| Company/Level | Base Salary | Total Compensation |
|---|---|---|
| Booking.com (Senior) | €118,000-€120,000 | €149,000-€163,000 |
| Booking.com (Standard) | €90,000-€95,000 | €104,000-€129,000 |
| Average (Amsterdam) | €65,000 | €70,000 |
| Entry-Level (<1 year) | ~€37,734 | Varies |
Data engineers enjoy excellent benefits such as:
- Year-end bonuses at 8.33% guaranteed
- Remote work options for 2-3 days weekly
- Strong health insurance and retirement plans
- Budget for growth and sabbatical opportunities
- Sports memberships covering 50+ activities with over 10,000 partners
Educational Requirements and Skills
Companies typically look for candidates with a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Applied Mathematics, or Engineering. They also expect:
- 2-5 years of hands-on experience with data modeling and queries
- Python programming expertise
- Deep knowledge of SQL and database management
- Cloud platform experience with Azure, AWS, or GCP
- Skills in data processing tools like Spark or Hadoop
- Understanding of DevOps and data architecture basics
People skills matter too. Companies value candidates who can analyze well, communicate clearly, and work well with different teams.
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine learning Engineering is one of the best paying engineering jobs in nethalands. Thier engineers are now among the highly paid engineers in Netherlands. These specialists create algorithms and build models that make use of intelligent systems in various industries. Their combination of programming expertise and statistical knowledge gives them a strong position in the Dutch job market.
Salary Range and Benefits
Machine Learning Engineers’ pay in the Netherlands depends on their experience, location, and employer. Here’s what the reliable salary data shows:
| Source | Average/Median Salary | Salary Range | Additional Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glassdoor (Amsterdam) | €70,000 | €57,125 – €95,250 | €7,762 |
| ERI | €89,047 | €61,264 – €108,726 | Varies |
| DevitJobs | €55,400 (avg), €52,500 (median) | €40,000 – €77,500 | Varies |
| PayScale | €48,479 | €35,000 – €75,000 | €800 – €6,000 bonus |
Educational Requirements and Skills
Most Machine Learning Engineer roles need:
- Master’s degree or higher in AI, Computer Science, Mathematics, or similar fields
- 3-4 years of experience in data science or related work
- Strong programming skills, especially Python and SQL
- Deep understanding of statistics and mathematics
- Skills in data wrangling and building data pipelines
Python, C++, Hadoop, and Linux are the most important technical skills. Getting certified in Python and having security clearances can help you land better opportunities.
Semiconductor Process Engineer at ASML
Semiconductor Process Engineering is a high paying engineering jobs at ASML are key players in the Netherlands’ high-tech sector. They work with innovative lithography systems that help produce more powerful microchips. These highly paid engineers play a vital role in developing and optimizing manufacturing processes for the global semiconductor industry.
Salary Range and Benefits
ASML rewards its Semiconductor Process Engineers with competitive compensation packages. The total annual pay ranges from €131,680 to €172,710, which includes both base salary and benefits. Engineers receive an average base salary of €125,000 per year, plus additional compensation of €24,810.
| Compensation Component | Range | Median | % of Total Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Pay | €113,550 – €138,360 | €125,000 | 83.7% |
| Bonus | €10,500 – €19,080 | €13,360 | 9% |
| Profit Sharing | €8,590 – €15,270 | €11,450 | 7.3% |
Educational Requirements and Skills
ASML values candidates with strong technical backgrounds. The company looks for:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering with specialization in Semiconductor Devices & Technology
- Technical expertise in electronics, mechanics, optics, mechatronics, or computer sciences
- Strong problem-solving abilities for complex technical challenges
- Collaborative mindset for working in multidisciplinary teams
Cloud Architecture Engineer
Cloud Architecture Engineers play a key role in the Netherlands’ digital world. They design and build resilient cloud infrastructure solutions for companies of all sectors. These highly paid engineers blend technical know-how with strategic thinking to help organizations move to the cloud and make the most of it.
Salary Range and Benefits
Cloud Architecture Engineers in the Netherlands earn attractive packages that match their specialized skills. Their salaries vary based on experience, location, and data source:
| Source | Average Annual Salary | Salary Range | Additional Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glassdoor (Amsterdam) | €85,000 | €62,350 – €100,000 | €4,000 |
| ERI | €113,168 | €80,462 – €136,820 | Varies |
| Jobicy | €126,814 | €76,088 – €228,266 | €12,681 – €19,022 |
Educational Requirements and Skills
Cloud Architecture Engineers in the Netherlands need at least a bachelor’s degree. Most candidates come from Computer Science, Information Technology, or similar technical fields.
The job requires expertise in several technical areas:
- Strong knowledge of major cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)
- Expertise with Kubernetes, Docker, and containerization
- Understanding of networking principles and server management
- Programming skills in languages like Python, Java, Golang, or Rust
- Experience with Linux environments
DevOps Engineering Lead
Another field in the high paying engineering jobs list is DevOps Engineering which leads connect development and operations teams throughout the Netherlands tech ecosystem. They guide software deployment processes and maintain system reliability. These specialists blend their coding expertise with infrastructure knowledge to create efficient development lifecycles.
Salary Range and Benefits
DevOps Engineering Leads earn varying compensation based on their experience and company size. Glassdoor shows a median annual salary of €65,000 ranging from €55,100 to €77,000. These professionals also receive bonus payments around €3,000 yearly.
| Experience Level | Salary Range | Total Compensation |
|---|---|---|
| Standard DevOps Engineer | €58,000-€79,000 | €68,000 |
| Senior DevOps Engineer | €77,000-€99,000 | €82,000 |
| Lead DevOps Engineer | €70,500-€99,000 | €84,250 |
| Tech Lead DevOps (Amsterdam) | €107,200-€127,200 | €115,000 |
Educational Requirements and Skills
DevOps Engineering Lead positions typically ask for:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology or related fields
- 5-7 years of experience managing DevOps in large multinational companies
- Strong communication skills and team collaboration
- Experience with mission-critical cloud environments
Cybersecurity Engineering Specialist
Cybersecurity Engineering Specialists play a crucial role in the Netherlands. They protect reliable digital systems against threats that become more sophisticated each day. Dutch organizations need these high paying engineering jobs and thier experts more than ever to face growing security challenges in businesses of all types.
Salary Range and Benefits
Dutch cybersecurity professionals earn competitive pay packages:
| Position Level | Salary Range | Additional Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | €42,144 | Varies |
| Mid-Level | €70,000 | €5,000 (bonus/profit sharing) |
| Senior-Level | €94,000 | €5,000-€15,000 |
| Specialized Roles | €68,405-€120,499 | Performance-based |
Educational Requirements and Skills
You’ll need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, systems engineering, or computer programming. Key technical skills include:
- Programming languages like Python, Ruby, Node, and Power Shell
- Security tools such as Wireshark, Metasploit, John the Ripper, and Nmap
- Network security monitoring and encryption technologies
- Penetration testing and vulnerability scanning methods
Optical Design Engineer
Optical Design Engineers create precision systems for high-tech industries in the Netherlands. They work on intricate designs that need nanometer level accuracy measurements. These specialists develop optical components for different applications. Their work ranges from advanced microscopes to lithography systems used in semiconductor manufacturing.
Salary Range and Benefits
The compensation for Optical Design Engineers varies based on employer and experience level. Companies like ASML offer substantially higher salaries than industry averages:
| Company/Source | Base Salary | Total Compensation | Additional Components |
|---|---|---|---|
| ASML | €127,860 | €155,540 | Bonus (10.5%), Profit Sharing (7.2%) |
| Industry Average (Netherlands) | €60,000 | €70,000 | €10,000 additional pay |
| ERI Estimate | €96,464 | Varies | Projected to reach €104,103 by 2030 |
| PayScale | €55,000 | €36,000-€94,000 | Bonuses up to €8,000 |
Educational Requirements and Skills
Industry data shows most positions need advanced academic credentials, usually a doctorate degree. Key qualifications include:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s in physics, mechatronics, or related technical fields
- Deep knowledge of photonics and optics
- Programming skills in MATLAB and Python
- Mechanical or electrical engineering background
- Strong analytical and reporting abilities
- Business English fluency (Dutch language skills preferred)
Embedded Systems Engineer
Embedded Systems Engineering create smart hardware-software solutions that power countless everyday devices, from smart thermostats to medical diagnostic equipment. These tech professionals combine electrical engineering and computer science expertise to build the “brains” that make modern technological breakthroughs possible.
Salary Range and Benefits
The Netherlands tech market offers competitive compensation to Embedded Systems Engineers:
| Experience Level | Salary Range | Additional Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (1-3 years) | €53,989 | €3,442 bonus |
| Mid-Level | €55,000 – €70,000 | Company-specific bonuses |
| Senior Level (8+ years) | €95,815 | Profit sharing opportunities |
| Amsterdam Area | €54,500 – €87,208 | €12,996 additional pay |
Salary potential should reach approximately €83,294 by 2030, showing an 8% increase. The package typically includes market-competitive compensation, pension plans, flexible working hours, and training opportunities.
Educational Requirements and Skills
A successful career path requires:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Embedded Systems, Computer Science, Technical Informatics, or Electrical Engineering
- Strong skills in programming languages like C, C++, and Python
- Experience with electronic design and debugging techniques
- Knowledge of hardware schematics and embedded system functionality
- Expertise in operating scopes, logic analyzers, and firmware debugging
Senior roles usually need 3+ years of experience in embedded software development for resource-constrained systems.
Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical Engineers in the Netherlands blend engineering, biology, and medicine to create state-of-the-art solutions for complex medical problems. These highly paid engineers develop advanced imaging technologies, life-support apparatus, and regenerative medical materials.
Salary Range and Benefits
Biomedical Engineers earn excellent compensation that matches their expertise:
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Monthly Equivalent | Additional Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (1-3 years) | €53,051 | €4,421 | €2,548 average bonus |
| Mid-Career | €75,620 | €6,302 | Flexible working hours |
| Senior Level (8+ years) | €93,800 | €7,817 | Pension arrangements |
Educational Requirements and Skills
Biomedical Engineers typically need these educational qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree (45% of professionals)
- Master’s degree (38% of professionals)
- Doctorate degree (7% of professionals)
Essential skills for success include:
- Knowledge of molecular biological techniques, especially mRNA
- Strong communication skills for team environments
- Problem-solving abilities across disciplines
- Self-directed work capabilities
- Skills in experiment coordination and data analysis
Python certification remains the most sought-after additional credential in this field.
Engineering Job Outlook in the Netherlands (2024-2025)
The Dutch engineering job market continues to evolve faster than ever. Technology advancements and workforce changes have reshaped this dynamic field. Job forecasts show remarkable growth in high paying engineering jobs of all types, particularly in digital and sustainable technologies.
The technology sector shows an impressive 15% growth rate, while specialized fields demonstrate even stronger numbers. Machine learning expertise has experienced a 383% rise in demand since 2019. Cloud infrastructure skills have surged 77%. These numbers highlight the Netherlands’ role as a thriving hub of innovation.
Comparison Table for best paying engineering jobs in Netherlands
| Engineering Role | Entry Level | Mid-Career | Senior Level | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Software Engineering Manager | €105,914 | €137,598 | €197,189 | Bachelor’s in CS + 5+ years management experience |
| Data Engineering Specialist | €40,000 | €65,000 | €120,000 | Bachelor’s in CS/IT + Python/SQL expertise |
| Machine Learning Engineer | €41,231 | €70,000 | €95,250 | Master’s in AI/CS + Python/Statistics |
| Semiconductor Process Engineer (ASML) | €128,140 | €131,680 | €252,676 | Bachelor’s/Master’s in Electrical Engineering |
| Cloud Architecture Engineer | €76,088 | €101,451 | €228,266 | Bachelor’s in CS/IT + Cloud certifications |
| DevOps Engineering Lead | €58,000 | €82,000 | €115,000 | Bachelor’s in CS + 5-7 years experience |
| Cybersecurity Engineering Specialist | €42,144 | €70,000 | €120,499 | Bachelor’s in CS + Security certifications |
| Optical Design Engineer | €60,000 | €127,860 | €184,160 | PhD in Physics/Optics preferred |
| Embedded Systems Engineer | €53,989 | €70,000 | €95,815 | Bachelor’s in Embedded Systems/CS |
| Biomedical Engineer | €53,051 | €75,620 | €93,800 | Master’s/PhD in Biomedical Engineering |
Conclusion
Dutch engineering offers impressive salary potential in specialized roles. Software Engineering Managers earn as much as €197,189 yearly. ASML’s Semiconductor Process Engineers can make up to €252,676 per year. These salaries show how vital engineering expertise is to drive technological progress in the Dutch economy.
Most best paying engineering jobs in Netherlands require at least a bachelor’s degree in relevant fields. Certifications in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence can substantially boost your earning potential and career growth chances.
Success in Dutch engineering careers comes from staying current with technology and building new skills. Engineers who keep up with industry trends and develop expertise across different areas will land the best-paying jobs in this fast-moving market.
FAQs
Q1. What is the best paying engineering job in the Netherlands? Based on the data provided, Semiconductor Process Engineers at ASML can earn up to €252,676 annually at senior levels, making it one of the highest-paying engineering roles in the Netherlands.
Q2. How much can a Software Engineering Manager expect to earn in the Netherlands? Software Engineering Managers in the Netherlands can expect to earn between €105,914 for entry-level positions and up to €197,189 for senior roles, with a median total compensation of €137,598.
Q3. What are the educational requirements for high paying engineering jobs in the Netherlands? Most high-paying engineering jobs in the Netherlands require at least a bachelor’s degree in relevant fields like Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Information Technology. Some specialized roles, such as Optical Design Engineers, may prefer candidates with a PhD.
Q4. Which high paying engineering jobs are experiencing the most growth in the Netherlands? The technology sector in the Netherlands is growing at a 15% rate, with machine learning skills seeing a 383% increase in demand since 2019. Cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, and sustainable engineering are also experiencing significant growth.
Q5. How important are certifications for best paying engineering jobs in Netherlands? Certifications can significantly enhance earning potential and career prospects in the Netherlands, especially in fields like cloud computing, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. They demonstrate specialized knowledge and can be particularly valuable for roles in Cloud Architecture and Cybersecurity Engineering.
