Demolition Laborer in the Netherlands (Gross pay shown)
This page describes a typical Demolition Laborer role on Dutch construction sites (often strip-out / soft-strip projects in offices, retail units, residential renovations, and logistics facilities). Openings are project-based and can differ by province and site rules.
CV is mandatory:candidates without a CV are not considered.
Typical rate (gross): €14.00–€18.75 per hourCommon areas: Rotterdam, The Hague, RandstadSite type: Renovation / strip-out / clearance
Pay range (gross) and what affects it
All figures below are gross (brutto). Your final rate depends on the province, the project’s collective agreement (CAO), your experience, shift pattern, and whether you handle additional responsibilities (e.g., machine-assisted demolition under supervision).
Component
Typical approach on NL projects
Base hourly pay (gross)
€14.00–€18.75 / hour (indicative)
Overtime / shifts
Often paid with premiums depending on schedule (evenings/nights/weekends) and site policy.
Allowances
May include travel/transport arrangements or project-specific allowances (site dependent).
Weekly deductions
If accommodation/insurance/transport is arranged, deductions may apply (always confirmed before acceptance).
Practical benchmark: entry-level demolition ads and construction references in the Netherlands frequently show gross hourly figures in the mid-teens and higher, depending on role scope and benefits. (No promises—project rules differ.)
A quick “hiring story” (what projects usually need)
Projects typically need extra hands for strip-out phases, controlled demolition support, and fast site clearing—especially when deadlines are tight and multiple trades share the same space.
Expect dust/noise controls and strict waste separation rules.
Access may require a site induction and PPE checks on arrival.
Work pace is steady: clear, move, sort, and keep walkways safe.
What you will do day-to-day
Soft strip / interior strip-out
Remove non-structural elements (fixtures, partitions, ceilings, floor coverings) following site instructions.
Protect surfaces and isolate areas to reduce dust spread where required.
Carry materials safely through shared corridors and lifts (often in occupied buildings).
Structural demo support (where permitted)
Assist qualified workers with controlled demolition tasks under supervision.
Set up exclusion zones, signage and barriers; keep the workface organized.
Stop work and report if materials look hazardous or outside the agreed scope.
Waste sorting, chutes, skips, and housekeeping
Sort waste into designated streams (e.g., mixed debris, wood, metal) as per site rules.
Load wheelbarrows, bins or skip containers and keep walkways clear.
Maintain tidy work areas to reduce slip/trip hazards for all trades.
Requirements and safety expectations
Must-have
Physical readiness for manual handling, repetitive lifting, and working on your feet.
Safety mindset: following instructions, PPE use, and respect for exclusion zones.
Basic communication in English for safety instructions and daily coordination.
CV in English is required for review and selection.
Nice-to-have
Demolition / strip-out experience on renovation projects (residential or commercial).
VCA (or comparable safety certificate) and/or documented site inductions.
Experience with hand tools and safe material handling (without improvisation).
Ability to work early starts, shifts, or occasional weekend work (project dependent).
Safety boundary: specialist tasks (e.g., asbestos work) are handled only by certified teams. If you are unsure, you stop and ask.
Work conditions in the Netherlands
Schedule: commonly day shifts with early starts; exact hours depend on the project/site.
Overtime: may be available during peak phases; premiums depend on project rules and CAO.
Tools & PPE: standard PPE is required (safety boots, helmet, gloves, eye/ear protection); site may specify additional items.
Travel: some sites are in the Randstad (Rotterdam/The Hague/Utrecht/Amsterdam area); transport arrangements vary.
Accommodation: sometimes offered/arranged on project contracts; if arranged, deductions may apply (confirmed before acceptance).
No two projects look identical—some are quiet “soft strip” renovations, others are fast clear-outs with strict deadlines and multiple trades sharing the space.
Documents & process (including non-EU candidates)
Identity documents: valid passport/ID; additional checks may be required by a client site.
CV + proof: certificates, photos of past projects, references—anything that supports your experience.
Work authorization: for non-EU candidates, the legal route depends on the employer and the contract model (employer-specific authorization vs other permitted arrangements).
Onboarding basics: you may need a BSN (Dutch citizen service number), banking details, and health insurance arrangements depending on the setup.
If posted via an EU employer: projects may require posting compliance documents (project and role dependent).