'Experiencing history and nature at the same time'
Ms. Christine Walker from the U.S.A. works for Synthon on a one year assignment

If you are looking for employment in Nijmegen, it is important to find out about the legal requirements for working in the Netherlands in your specific circumstances. What residence visa and work permits do you need, do you speak Dutch well enough, is your diploma, certificate or degree internationally accepted?

Permits
First find out whether your legal status allows you to work in the Netherlands. The IND website tells you everything there is to know about rules and permits for moving, living and working here. Possessing highly sought after skills in the Netherlands or experience in a work field where there are shortages in the Netherlands (e.g., Health & Medicine, Education) could work in your advantage. Read on about permits.

Personal situation
Another thing to think about when looking for a job is the language issue. If you don’t speak Dutch, you could try to find a (international) company that (also) speaks English or your own language at work. Your knowledge of the culture and language could even be an advantage! And don’t forget to make arrangements for day care for your children in advance. Be aware of waiting lists.

Expats & knowledge workers
Are you moving to the Netherlands because your employer has asked you to, because you’re an expatriate being relocated or a knowledge migrant? Or have you already obtained employment with an organisation in Nijmegen? Ask the Human Resources department of your company to help you sort out relevant permits and visas, if they haven’t already done so. The website of the Radboud University has got a special website for its international staff: www.ru.nl/staff. Even if you are not going to work for the University, the 'Working in the Netherlands'-information might be helpful for you.

Finding a job
Job ads can be found in regional and national newspapers (especially on Saturdays), on the internet at jobsites and company websites, at the Center for Work and Income or through employment agencies (called ‘uitzendbureau’ in Dutch).

The Dutch Center for Work and Income (CWI), at the Mariënburg 30 in Nijmegen, can help you find employment and sort out the paperwork. It might be wise to call first to check if the Center can help with your specific problems. Don't forget to ask which documents to bring along. Telephone (024) 751 60 00 (from abroad: + 31-24-7516000).

Useful websites

• The ‘ACCESS Guide to Working in The Netherlands’ provides helpful tips for your job search (available in on-line shop at www.access-nl.org).
• At www.euraxess.nl vacant positions in research and supporting staff can be found. This site also provides practical information about living and working The Netherlands.
• Through search engines on the internet, you will find several agencies and websites offering vacant English speaking jobs in the Netherlands, such as www.xpatjobs.com.
• Find out if large companies in Nijmegen are in need of new employees at their company-websites.