Vegetable/Fruit Sorter in the Netherlands
This role focuses on sorting and grading fresh produce for quality and packing standards. Assignments are project-based and may differ by facility (sorting hall, packing line or greenhouse logistics).
Quick facts
- 1Typical gross pay: €14.71–€17.50 per hour (brutto). Final rate depends on site/CAO, shift pattern, province, and experience.
- 2Example locations: Venlo, Barneveld, Westland area (project-based).
- 3Work type: sorting / grading / packing-line support (fresh produce).
- 4Language: basic English for safety and coordination is commonly expected.
Hiring story (what this job looks like on real sites)
During peak export weeks, sorting halls run at a steady pace to meet dispatch windows. Teams separate produce by size/appearance, remove damaged items, and keep crates flowing to packing. If you are consistent, attentive, and comfortable with repetitive work, you will do well.
Some projects are colder (near chilled storage), others are warmer (near greenhouse logistics). Conditions and rotation rules are confirmed per assignment.
Candidate fit
You are a good fit if you…
- can keep a steady pace for repetitive tasks and stay focused on quality
- are comfortable standing for long periods and doing light-to-moderate lifting
- follow hygiene rules and food-handling instructions consistently
- communicate simply in English (or learn basic phrases fast)
- arrive on time and work reliably in shifts (including early starts)
- prefer clear, practical tasks rather than complex decision-making
This role is not for you if you…
- cannot handle repetitive work or constant attention to small defects
- have severe limitations with standing, bending, or basic manual handling
- expect guaranteed fixed hours regardless of seasonal volume
- are not willing to follow hygiene/safety rules (hairnets, gloves, PPE)
Your day-to-day tasks
- ✓Sort and grade vegetables/fruit by visual quality, size, and category (site rules apply).
- ✓Remove damaged items and keep the line clean and organized.
- ✓Pack produce into crates/boxes, apply labels when required, and stack safely.
- ✓Work with supervisors on speed/quality targets; report defects or contamination risks.
- ✓Follow hygiene protocols (hand washing, protective wear, restricted items on the floor).
Depending on the project, tasks may rotate between sorting tables, packing stations, and basic warehouse support (moving crates, staging pallets).
Pay & allowances (gross / brutto)
All figures below are shown as gross (brutto). Net pay depends on individual tax situation, deductions (if any), and applicable rules for the assignment.
| Component | Typical range (gross) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Base hourly rate | €14.71–€17.50 / hour | Depends on site, collective agreement (CAO), province, experience, and role scope. |
| Shift / irregular hours | Project-specific | May apply for evenings/nights/weekends depending on schedule and CAO rules. |
| Overtime | Project-specific | Only if approved/needed; paid according to project terms and applicable rules. |
| Holiday allowance | Project-specific | Often included or accrued depending on contract structure. |
What affects your hourly rate
- Province & site: large export hubs may pay differently than smaller facilities.
- CAO / company policy: collective agreements can define premiums and allowances.
- Shift pattern: early starts, evenings, weekends can add premiums where applicable.
- Experience & reliability: consistent output and low error rates matter on sorting lines.
Working conditions & safety
Schedule: typically 32–40 hours/week, often in shifts. Workload can rise during peak harvest/export periods.
Environment: standing work, repetitive movements; some areas may be cooler (near chilled storage) or warmer (near greenhouses).
Safety & hygiene: PPE and hygiene rules are mandatory (e.g., gloves/hairnets, no jewelry on the floor, reporting contamination risks).
Practical notes:
- Bring safety-minded attitude and follow supervisor instructions.
- Comfortable footwear is essential; anti-slip requirements may apply.
- Transport/commute arrangements depend on project and location.
Accommodation (if offered) and any deductions (if applicable) are always project-specific and confirmed before acceptance. No promises are made on this page.
Requirements
- Physical stamina for standing work; ability to do repetitive tasks with attention to detail.
- Reliability, punctuality, and willingness to follow hygiene and safety rules.
- Basic English for safety instructions and coordination is typically expected.
- CV in English is required for review and selection.
Certificates are usually not mandatory for sorting roles, but any proof of relevant food/warehouse experience can strengthen your profile.
Documents & legal work notes (non-EU candidates)
Non-EU candidates can apply. Work authorization requirements depend on the employer, the assignment, and your profile. Details are confirmed after CV screening.
- ✓Passport (valid) + any current residence/visa documents you already have.
- ✓CV (English preferred) + certificates/proof of experience if available.
- ✓Employer-specific authorization may be required for certain cases (permits/visa steps vary).
- ✓Background checks may apply on some sites (project policy).
- ✓Onboarding basics typically include a BSN registration flow, bank details, and site induction (project-dependent).
If you are employed by a Polish company and posted to a Dutch site, additional administrative steps may apply (e.g., posted-worker declarations and social security documentation such as A1), depending on the arrangement and project rules.
FAQ
Is this role seasonal or year-round?
Many produce sorting assignments are seasonal (peak harvest/export windows). Some facilities operate year-round. Duration depends on the project and site.
What is the typical gross hourly pay?
Gross pay commonly starts from the Dutch statutory minimum hourly wage and can increase with experience, shift work, and overtime. Final pay is confirmed per assignment.
Do I need experience?
Not always. Sites often train for line standards. However, any produce/packing/warehouse experience can improve your chances and may influence rate.
Do I need English?
Basic English for safety instructions and teamwork is usually required. Some projects may accept limited English if tasks are clearly supervised.
Can non-EU candidates apply?
Yes. Work authorization depends on employer and profile. If additional permit/visa steps are needed, they are discussed after CV screening.
Is accommodation provided?
Some assignments offer accommodation options, often with deductions. Availability, standards, and costs are project-specific and confirmed before acceptance.