Formwork Carpenter (PERI/DOKA) in the Netherlands
This page describes a typical Formwork Carpenter (PERI/DOKA) role on Dutch construction sites. Assignments are project-based (commercial, industrial, or infrastructure-adjacent), and the exact scope depends on the site team, the concrete phase, and the formwork system in use.
Hiring story (why this role exists)
On many Dutch sites, concrete cycles are tight: walls, cores, columns, and decks must be formed, poured, and stripped on schedule. Teams that know system formwork (PERI/DOKA) help the site keep rhythm — especially when cranes, pours, and inspections are time-boxed. That’s why experienced formwork carpenters are brought in for specific phases rather than “generic carpentry”.
Pay snapshot (gross)
Typical gross hourly range for this role: €18.5–€26.0 / hour (brutto). Final terms depend on the assignment, your experience with system formwork, and site conditions.
What affects your gross hourly rate
- Province / site location (local project budgets and logistics)
- Experience level (speed, accuracy, independent assembly, reading drawings)
- System familiarity (PERI/DOKA variants, safe stripping, reshoring routines)
- Overtime / shift work (project phase, pours, and handover deadlines)
- Allowances (may apply depending on project rules: travel, tools, shifts)
What you will do on site
Day-to-day tasks (PERI/DOKA)
- Assemble and install system formwork for walls, columns, and (depending on project) slabs or cores.
- Align, brace, and secure panels; place ties/anchors; verify plumb/level before concrete placement.
- Work in sequence with steel fixers, concrete crews, and crane operators to keep the pour plan on track.
- Strip formwork safely after curing (including reshoring where required) and prepare components for the next cycle.
- Handle materials responsibly: storage, cleaning, minor repairs, and safe lifting/rigging awareness.
Tools, handling, and teamwork
- Use basic hand tools (hammer, spanner set, measuring tape) and site tools (impact/torque tools where allowed).
- Interpret simple drawings/setting-out instructions; communicate issues early (tolerances, openings, embeds).
- Maintain a clean, safe work zone — especially around pours, edges, and lifting operations.
Requirements for selection
Must-have
- Relevant formwork / shuttering experience (system formwork strongly preferred).
- Safety mindset and ability to work physically on construction sites (outdoors/indoors, varying weather).
- Basic on-site communication in English (for safety instructions and coordination).
- CV in English is required for review and selection.
Nice-to-have
- Recognized safety certification (site-dependent; may be requested after screening).
- Ability to read drawings more independently (openings, dimensions, tolerances).
- Experience with concrete cycles on large projects (warehouses, commercial shells, industrial sites).
Candidate portrait
You are a good fit if you…
- have hands-on experience with PERI/DOKA (or similar) and understand safe assembly/stripping.
- work accurately with levels, lines, and braces — and care about tolerances.
- can keep pace during concrete cycles without cutting corners on safety.
- communicate clearly with the team (especially around pours and lifting).
- take ownership of your station: preparation, cleanliness, and component care.
- are comfortable with repetitive cycles and methodical work.
This role is not for you if you…
- avoid physical site work or cannot handle sustained standing, lifting, and climbing.
- dislike structured routines (formwork is repetitive by design: assemble → pour → strip → repeat).
- ignore PPE/toolbox rules or take risks around edges, loads, or wet concrete zones.
- need constant supervision to follow instructions or basic measurements.
Typical conditions on Dutch projects
Schedule & overtime
Most projects follow a standard weekday schedule, but concrete phases can create peaks. Overtime, early starts, or occasional weekend work may occur depending on pours and deadlines.
Safety and PPE
- PPE is expected (helmet, safety footwear, hi-vis; additional PPE per site).
- Toolbox talks and method statements are normal on Dutch sites.
- Edge protection and lifting rules are taken seriously — consistent compliance matters.
Travel/accommodation (when applicable)
Some assignments may include arranged accommodation or travel support depending on project and employer policy. If accommodation is arranged, deductions and house rules can apply (details are clarified before acceptance).
Documents & legal work principles (non-EU candidates)
- Valid passport and a complete English CV (plus certificates if available).
- Work authorization depends on the employer and assignment (often employer-specific routes rather than “open” work access).
- Some sites request background checks or proof of trade history (project-dependent).
- Basic English for safety instructions is expected on most construction sites.
Questions about the process can be sent via the contact page: Contact MaViAl.
FAQ (PERI/DOKA formwork — Netherlands)
Is the hourly rate shown net or gross?
All rates on this page are gross (brutto). Net pay depends on your tax situation, allowances, and any project deductions (if applicable).
Do I need my own tools?
It depends on the assignment. Many sites provide major equipment; candidates are usually expected to have basic hand tools. Requirements are confirmed after CV screening.
Is PERI/DOKA experience mandatory?
It is strongly preferred. If you have solid shuttering experience, system-formwork projects may still be possible depending on the site team and supervision level.
Can non-EU candidates apply?
Yes. The applicable legal route (permit/visa or other basis) depends on the employer and your profile and is clarified after screening.
How fast is the selection process?
Project timelines vary. A complete CV and clear experience details (systems used, tasks, project types) speed up screening and matching.