Plant Nursery Worker in the Netherlands
Project-based plant nursery work typically combines careful handling (quality) with steady pace (output). You may work with potted plants, trays, labels and packing lines, depending on the site and season.
Snapshot
| Category | Greenhouse & Plant Nursery (Horticulture) |
|---|---|
| Gross pay | €14.71–€16.50 per hour (indicative). Final offer depends on site, shift pattern, and experience. |
| Schedule | Most sites run day shifts; early starts are common during peak season. Overtime may occur depending on harvest/dispatch cycles. |
| Typical tasks | Potting, spacing, labeling, grading, packing, moving trays/carts, basic line quality checks. |
| What you need | English CV + valid ID/passport; basic communication for safety instructions. |
Note: gross pay ranges are indicative; premiums/allowances (e.g., overtime/irregular hours) depend on project rules and assignment details.
Hiring story (what sites usually look like)
Many plant nurseries operate like a calm production floor: plants arrive in batches, get spaced or re-potted, labeled, checked, then staged for dispatch. During seasonal peaks, speed matters—but so does careful handling to avoid damage.
Day-to-day tasks
- Potting, transplanting, spacing plants and preparing trays
- Labeling, scanning or manual sorting by variety/size/quality
- Packing and staging orders for dispatch; maintaining a clean workstation
- Moving trolleys/carts, stacking light-to-medium boxes where applicable
- Following hygiene and safety instructions (clean zones, walkways, tools)
Requirements and skills
- Reliability and steady pace (repetitive tasks, quality consistency)
- Attention to detail (labels, varieties, order accuracy)
- Basic English communication for safety briefings and instructions
- CV in English is required for screening and selection
Nice-to-have
- Experience in horticulture/greenhouse/packing lines
- Driving licence (B) for some locations (not always required)
- Comfort working early shifts during peak season
Physical demands & safety
- Standing/walking for most of the shift; repetitive hand movements
- Manual handling within safe limits; correct lifting technique expected
- Compliance with PPE and site standards is mandatory
Short candidate portrait
You are a good fit if you…
- can keep a steady pace without sacrificing accuracy
- are comfortable with repetitive tasks and routine quality checks
- follow hygiene and safety rules without reminders
- can work early starts during seasonal peak periods
- handle plants carefully (no rushing that causes damage)
- communicate basic needs/instructions in English
- have a complete CV ready (English preferred)
This role is not for you if you…
- cannot work standing/walking for most of the shift
- dislike repetitive work or fast, routine production environments
- struggle to follow hygiene or safety standards consistently
- expect a fully fixed schedule with no seasonal peaks
Pay (gross) and typical allowances
Gross hourly rate (indicative)
Expected gross range: €14.71–€16.50/hour. The lower bound aligns with statutory minimum levels for 21+; final rate depends on province/site, shift pattern, experience and role mix.
- Overtime and irregular-hours premiums may apply depending on assignment rules
- Holiday allowance and other statutory items may apply (assignment dependent)
- Weekly hours and peak-season overtime vary by project
Working conditions (typical)
- Schedule: day shifts; early starts common in horticulture
- Safety: PPE rules apply; site briefing on day one
- Tools: usually provided on-site; bring basic work attitude and readiness
- Travel: commute rules depend on project; clarify after screening
- Accommodation: may be available for some projects; depends on assignment
- Deductions: if applicable (e.g., accommodation), they are communicated before acceptance
- Probation/intro period may apply (site-dependent)
Documents & process (non-EU candidates)
Documents (baseline)
- Valid passport / identity document
- CV (English preferred) + certificates if available
- Basic background checks may be required depending on the site/client
- Any relevant training (e.g., safety, equipment) is a plus
Work authorization (high-level)
Work authorization depends on your nationality, residence status and the hiring arrangement. Some routes are employer-specific; others depend on individual residence rights. Feasibility is confirmed after screening based on your profile and project constraints.
For questions, use the contact page (internal link): Contact.
What happens after you apply
- CV review: role fit, availability, communication level, site constraints.
- Short screening: tasks you can handle, pace, shift readiness, reliability.
- Project match: location, start window, pay level, and practical logistics confirmed.
- Confirmation: you receive assignment details and next steps.
FAQ
Do I need experience in horticulture or greenhouse work?
Not always. Many sites can train routine tasks, but you must be reliable, accurate, and ready for repetitive work at a steady pace.
What gross hourly rate should I expect?
Typical projects start from statutory minimum levels and go up with experience, shift pattern and assignment complexity. This page uses an indicative range to stay realistic and compliant.
Is accommodation available?
Some projects may offer accommodation; others require self-arranged housing. If accommodation applies, any cost/deduction conditions are communicated before you accept.
Can couples or friends apply together?
Sometimes, depending on available slots and housing logistics. Apply with separate CVs and mention you want to be placed together; final confirmation depends on the project.
Do I need a driving licence?
Not always, but a Category B licence can expand project options—especially for sites with limited public transport.