With this job for which you need to be highly educated, you actually earn no cents.
Nice, those diplomas. Studying is very good for your development, but what does it do for your wallet? Do you always earn more if you are highly educated - say, a master's degree? Or is it a big disappointment?
In some jobs, it's not a gold mine. Although you need a lot of diplomas and papers for it, it doesn't pay super well. A bit of brains is required, but you certainly won't go home with the jackpot. Of course, your salary is never your main motivation in working life, but still. It does feel a bit better in those new shoes.
There are various highly educated professions where the financial reward is relatively low compared to the investments in education and the responsibility of the job:
1. Teacher in primary education
Educational requirements: a bachelor's or master's degree in education.
Average salary: In the Netherlands, the starting salary of a primary school teacher is around €2,678 gross per month, with opportunities to grow to about €4,113 gross per month.
Why it is relatively low: primary school teachers play a crucial role in the development of children, but their salary often does not reflect the workload, responsibility, and the need for continuous professional development. Moreover, they often spend extra time on preparation, grading, and parent communication outside regular school hours. I mentioned it before: education is perhaps the toughest job you can have.
2. Social worker
Educational requirements: a bachelor's or master's degree in social work or a related field.
Average salary: the salary of a social worker in the Netherlands ranges between €2,500 and €4,000 gross per month, depending on experience and specialization.
Why it is relatively low: social workers play a vital role in supporting vulnerable groups and addressing social issues. Despite the emotional burden and the often complex casework they deal with, the financial reward remains modest. But of course, most people do this because they find fulfillment in it and become happier.
3. Scientific researcher
Educational requirements: usually a PhD in a specific field.
Average salary: the salary of a postdoc researcher in the Netherlands ranges between €2,790 and €4,402 gross per month. For many academic positions, this is relatively low given the years of study and research that precede obtaining a PhD. Just realize that you have already studied for at least four years, are smart, because you have already obtained a master's degree, and you also have to fight to even get a place where you can obtain your PhD. And oh yes, bring your own lunch.
Why it is relatively low: researchers contribute to important scientific discoveries and innovations, but their work is often not well paid, especially in the early stages of their careers. Moreover, contracts are often temporary and uncertain, which brings additional financial insecurity. So you would need to have a paid job alongside your PhD. How then?
Do you know what the worst part is? It doesn't change quickly either. Many professionals in these sectors are strongly driven by their passion and dedication to their work. Employers often see this as a reason to offer lower salaries, assuming that the satisfaction from the work itself is sufficient reward. So: a nice job? Then I don't have to pay you as much. Terrible. Let's, especially in education - and certainly also for women - pay fair salaries. For the work someone does, not for the passion they have for it. Seems more than fair to me.
