The Dutch craftsman is becoming a rare profession, with hardly any new tradespeople being trained – despite the abundance of work available. Ergon Jobs views Europe as its recruitment ground and has been successfully bringing skilled workers to the Netherlands since 1998, specifically for the façade construction industry. The long-standing employment relationships are a testament to the fact that they treat their employees well.
Ergon Jobs has a history dating back to 1998. “Back then, we operated under a different name, but our philosophy and core values have remained largely unchanged,” says Stan Haag, senior account manager at Ergon Jobs. “We focus entirely on façade technology and recruit skilled workers from all across Europe.” Their payroll includes employees from no less than sixteen different nationalities. “Over the years, we've built a strong network. Our recruiters know exactly what’s needed and which candidates will succeed.” Since January 1st, 2024, Ergon Jobs has been part of the TRIXXO family, further enhancing their knowledge and capabilities.
VMRG Partner
Focusing solely on façade technology is a deliberate choice, says Tim van Lierop, sales manager at Ergon Jobs. “Within that niche, our scope is broad.” He refers to the fact that they provide staff for both production environments and on-site assembly. “We’re a partner of VMRG, operate nationwide, and are fortunate to have long-term partnerships with both our clients and our team. Some of our temporary workers have been on our payroll for nineteen years. Even though they’re frequently offered permanent contracts by companies, they choose to stay with us. That says a lot about us as an employer – and we’re truly proud of that,” says Van Lierop. “We still work with some of our very first clients.”
Dutch Employment Terms
All temporary workers are on the Dutch payroll of Ergon Jobs. “They speak at least German or English,” says Haag. “Communication and safety are top priorities for us. Occasionally we assign workers in pairs, but we increasingly see English becoming the main language on factory floors and project sites. One of our commitments is to visit our people every three to four weeks to check in and see how they’re doing. Everyone has their own room in their accommodation, and we only work with Dutch employment contracts that include pension accrual and vacation days. That’s a key differentiator compared to many of our competitors. Of course, we also provide the proper tools, personal protective equipment, and certifications.”
According to Van Lierop, the façade market is currently booming. “There’s a constant demand for qualified professionals. Our recruiters are working overtime.” Yet Ergon Jobs continues to meet the needs of its clients. “We’re involved in nearly all high-profile projects in the Netherlands in one way or another,” says Haag, who has ambitions to help establish a façade technology training program. “We had initial talks years ago with the VMRG and a vocational college, but the market wasn’t ready yet. It’s time to revisit the idea – in one form or another.”