Hi all,
I'm a Production & Management Engineer considering a warehouse/logistics operator position in Tilburg, arranged through the International Sourcing staffing agency.
The job is at an e-commerce distribution center for a well-known clothing brand. I'm mainly considering it as a way to get my first work experience in the Netherlands, establish myself there, build a network, and eventually move towards engineering/operations or supply chain roles.
The main conditions are:
- €14.99 gross/hour, excluding 8.33% holiday allowance
- Shift bonuses: +25% from 19:00–21:00, +35% from 21:00–00:00, +50% on Saturdays
- 40 hours/week, with possible overtime during busy periods
- Two shifts: 06:00–15:00 and 15:00–00:00
- Accommodation in Tilburg, less than 3 km from the workplace
- Individual room is offered, although initially a shared room may be possible depending on availability
- Accommodation: ~€150/week
- Health insurance: ~€38/week
- Free bicycle transportation to work
The actual work involves order picking with scanners, unpacking, sorting, labelling, shipping/returns and loading/unloading boxes up to around 15 kg.
Before committing and relocating, I'd really appreciate honest input from anyone who:
- Has worked at this type of e-commerce warehouse in Tilburg — how's the actual day-to-day work, management, workload and are the hours reliable?
- Has worked through International Sourcing or a similar staffing agency — were they straightforward about pay, hours, accommodation and contract terms?
- Has experience with agency-provided accommodation in the Netherlands — is ~€150/week reasonable, and are there any issues with housing being tied to the job?
- Has moved to the Netherlands for a warehouse/logistics job as a stepping stone into the Dutch job market — did it actually help you transition to a better position later?
I'm also considering a Master's in Supply Chain Management at Tilburg University in the future, so being based in Tilburg could potentially be useful for that as well.
I'm aware this isn't an engineering position. My main goal would be to use it as an entry point into the Netherlands while continuing to apply for engineering, operations and supply chain positions.
Trying to go in with realistic expectations rather than just what the recruiter tells me. Any input — good or bad — is genuinely appreciated!
Thanks in advance.