Why Global Companies Hire Warehouse Automation Engineers from Belgium
Belgium has emerged as a strategic hub for warehouse automation expertise, offering several compelling advantages for global companies seeking specialized engineering talent:
- Strategic logistics hub: Belgium’s position as a central European logistics hub has created a thriving ecosystem for warehouse automation innovation. The Port of Antwerp, Brussels Airport, and extensive distribution networks have driven significant investment in cutting-edge automation technologies.
- Advanced educational infrastructure: Belgian universities and technical institutions offer specialized programs in automation, robotics, and logistics engineering, producing graduates with highly relevant skills for warehouse automation projects.
- Strong industrial automation experience: Belgium’s strong manufacturing sector has fostered expertise in industrial automation that transfers effectively to warehouse environments, including PLC programming, SCADA systems, and robotics integration.
- Multilingual capabilities: Belgian engineers typically speak multiple languages (Dutch, French, English, and often German), facilitating international project collaboration and documentation.
- EU regulatory knowledge: Engineers from Belgium understand European safety standards, CE certification requirements, and other regulations critical for compliant warehouse automation systems.
For companies implementing or expanding warehouse automation initiatives, staffing agencies in Belgium can provide access to this specialized talent pool with expertise spanning from control systems to robotics integration.
Who Should Consider Hiring Belgian Warehouse Automation Engineers
Several types of organizations can benefit significantly from hiring warehouse automation engineers from Belgium:
- E-commerce companies: Businesses experiencing rapid growth in online sales need automation expertise to scale fulfillment operations efficiently while maintaining speed and accuracy.
- Third-party logistics (3PL) providers: Companies offering warehousing and fulfillment services can leverage Belgian engineering talent to implement advanced automation solutions that provide competitive advantages in efficiency and scalability.
- Manufacturing organizations: Manufacturers seeking to optimize their warehouse operations and create seamless integration between production and logistics can benefit from Belgian engineers’ industrial automation background.
- Retail chains: Retailers with distribution centers serving brick-and-mortar locations and online channels need sophisticated automation solutions to manage complex inventory and fulfillment requirements.
- Warehouse automation vendors: Companies that develop and implement warehouse automation technologies can strengthen their capabilities by adding Belgian engineering talent with specialized expertise in control systems, robotics, or software integration.
For companies undertaking warehouse modernization projects without permanent hiring needs, outsourcing work to Belgium can provide access to specialized automation engineers for project-based engagements.
Key Skills and Specializations for Warehouse Automation Engineers
Warehouse automation engineers in Belgium typically possess a diverse set of technical skills and specialized knowledge areas:
Core Technical Skills
- Control systems programming: Proficiency with PLCs (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Schneider), industrial PCs, and control system architectures
- Robotics integration: Experience with industrial robots, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and collaborative robots (cobots)
- Material handling systems: Knowledge of conveyor systems, sortation equipment, AS/RS, and other automated transport mechanisms
- Software development: Programming skills in languages relevant to automation (C/C++, Python, .NET)
- Industrial communication protocols: Expertise with Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus, OPC-UA, and other industrial networks
- HMI development: Design of operator interfaces and visualization systems
- System integration: Ability to integrate multiple automation components and subsystems
Specialized Knowledge Areas
| Specialization | Key Technologies | Applications in Warehouse Automation |
|---|---|---|
| Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) | SAP EWM, Manhattan Associates, Blue Yonder, HighJump | Inventory management, order processing, labor management |
| Warehouse Control Systems (WCS) | Proprietary systems, middleware platforms | Real-time control of material handling equipment, order routing |
| Warehouse Execution Systems (WES) | Integrated WMS/WCS platforms | Optimized order fulfillment, resource allocation, workflow management |
| Goods-to-Person Technologies | Shuttle systems, vertical lift modules, robotic picking | High-density storage, efficient picking operations |
| Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)/AMRs | Fleet management systems, navigation technologies | Autonomous material transport, flexible routing |
| Vision Systems and Sensing | 2D/3D cameras, barcode/RFID technologies | Quality control, item identification, dimensioning |
Belgian engineers often bring additional expertise in project management methodologies, safety system design (including machinery safety standards EN ISO 13849 and IEC 62061), and commissioning procedures for complex automation systems.
Their experience with automated HR and payroll implementations can also be valuable for companies seeking to integrate workforce management systems with their warehouse automation infrastructure.
Experience Levels of Belgian Warehouse Automation Engineers
Understanding the different experience levels of warehouse automation engineers in Belgium helps employers match candidates to their specific project requirements:
Entry-Level Engineers (0-3 years)
These engineers typically have an educational foundation but limited practical experience:
- Recent graduates with degrees in automation, electromechanical engineering, or computer science
- Strong theoretical knowledge of control systems, robotics, and programming fundamentals
- Experience with basic PLC programming, HMI development, and simple automation projects
- Familiarity with CAD tools and simulation software
- May have internship experience with automation vendors or end-users
- Usually work under supervision on specific components or subsystems
Mid-Level Engineers (3-7 years)
Engineers at this level bring substantial practical experience in warehouse automation:
- Hands-on experience implementing and commissioning automation systems
- Proficiency with multiple control platforms and integration methodologies
- Ability to design control architectures for medium-complexity systems
- Experience with project management and coordination with multiple stakeholders
- Familiarity with industry-specific challenges in warehousing and distribution
- Capable of troubleshooting complex automation issues
- Often specialized in specific areas like robotics, conveyor systems, or WCS/WMS integration
Senior Engineers (7+ years)
Seasoned professionals with comprehensive expertise and strategic capabilities:
- Deep technical expertise across multiple automation technologies and platforms
- Experience designing and implementing large-scale warehouse automation systems
- Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and manage complex projects
- Strategic understanding of warehouse operations and optimization opportunities
- Expertise in system validation, performance optimization, and regulatory compliance
- Experience with ROI analysis and business case development
- Often possess specialized knowledge in emerging technologies like AI, machine learning applications in warehousing
- Capabilities in system lifecycle management and technology roadmap development
Belgian engineers often bring additional value through their international project experience, multilingual capabilities, and understanding of European standards and practices relevant to warehouse automation.
Hiring Models to Choose From
When hiring warehouse automation engineers in Belgium, companies can select from several employment models, each with distinct advantages and considerations:
| Hiring Model | Description | Advantages | Considerations | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Employment | Traditional employment relationship with your company as the employer | Full integration, IP ownership, direct control, long-term commitment | Requires legal entity in Belgium, compliance responsibilities, less flexibility | Long-term automation programs, core engineering teams |
| Contract Engineering | Fixed-term contracts for specific automation projects | Flexibility, specialized expertise, defined timeline and deliverables | Higher rates, potential contractor misclassification risks | Project-based work, specialized technology implementation |
| Staff Augmentation | Engineers provided through third-party staffing firms | Quick access to talent, scalable workforce, reduced administrative burden | Less control over selection, potential cultural integration challenges | Temporary capacity needs, specialized skill gaps |
| Employer of Record (EOR) | Legal employment through third-party while maintaining operational control | No need for Belgian entity, compliance handled, simplified administration | Service fees, shared employment responsibilities | International companies without Belgian presence, market entry |
| Project Outsourcing | Contracting entire automation projects to specialized firms | Turnkey solution, defined deliverables and timeline, reduced management | Less control, potential integration challenges with existing systems | Complete automation implementations, companies lacking internal expertise |
The choice of hiring model often depends on factors including the duration of your automation project, the strategic importance of the expertise, and your existing presence in Belgium. For companies undertaking automation projects without a Belgian entity, the Employer of Record model offers an efficient path to securing qualified engineering talent while ensuring compliance with local regulations.
How to Legally Hire Warehouse Automation Engineers in Belgium
Navigating the legal requirements for hiring warehouse automation engineers in Belgium involves understanding the available options and their implications:
Option 1: Establish a Legal Entity in Belgium
Setting up your own Belgian entity gives you direct employer status:
- Register your company with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (BCE/KBO)
- Register with the National Social Security Office (ONSS/RSZ)
- Implement Belgian payroll and tax withholding procedures
- Create compliant employment contracts under Belgian law
- Adhere to relevant collective bargaining agreements (typically Joint Committee 111 for metal industry engineers or 200 for office workers)
- Provide mandatory benefits and insurance coverage
- Establish workplace policies aligned with Belgian employment regulations
Option 2: Use an Employer of Record (EOR) Service
An EOR solution like Asanify handles legal employment while you manage the work:
- No need to establish a Belgian legal entity
- EOR assumes the legal employer role and compliance responsibilities
- Compliant employment contracts and documentation
- Proper tax withholding and social security contributions
- Management of benefits and statutory requirements
- Adherence to applicable collective bargaining agreements
- You maintain day-to-day operational control of the engineer’s work
Comparison: Entity Setup vs. EOR Solution
| Factor | Own Legal Entity | Employer of Record (Asanify) |
|---|---|---|
| Setup Time | 2-4 months | 1-2 weeks |
| Setup Costs | €10,000-25,000+ | Minimal to none |
| Ongoing Administration | Substantial (legal, HR, payroll, tax) | Minimal (operational management only) |
| Compliance Risk | Full company liability | Shared with EOR provider |
| Employment Flexibility | Limited by Belgian termination laws | More adaptable to project timelines |
| IP Protection | Direct through employment contracts | Secured through proper agreements |
| Best For | Long-term presence, multiple employees | Project-based needs, market testing, limited headcount |
For companies implementing warehouse automation projects without an established Belgian presence, the EOR model provides a compliant and efficient path to accessing specialized engineering talent without the complexity and time investment of entity establishment.
Step-by-Step Guide to Hiring Warehouse Automation Engineers in Belgium
Follow this structured approach to successfully hire warehouse automation engineers in Belgium:
Step 1: Define Your Automation Requirements
- Identify specific automation technologies and systems needed (conveyor systems, robotics, WMS, control systems)
- Determine required technical expertise and specializations
- Clarify project scope, timeline, and deliverables
- Define required certifications or experience with specific platforms
- Establish language requirements (Dutch, French, English, possibly German)
- Determine if on-site presence is required or if remote work is possible
Step 2: Select the Appropriate Hiring Model
- Evaluate project duration and long-term staffing needs
- Assess your current legal presence in Belgium
- Determine budget constraints and hiring timeline
- Consider intellectual property protection requirements
- Evaluate flexibility needs for scaling the team up or down
- Select the most appropriate model (direct hire, contract, staff augmentation, EOR)
Step 3: Source Qualified Candidates
- Engage with Belgian technical universities (KU Leuven, Ghent University, VUB)
- Utilize specialized engineering recruitment agencies
- Post on industry-specific job boards and platforms
- Leverage LinkedIn and professional networks for automation engineers
- Connect with Belgian automation industry associations
- Attend or participate in logistics and automation trade shows in Belgium
Step 4: Evaluate and Select Candidates
- Review technical qualifications and automation project experience
- Conduct technical assessments specific to warehouse automation
- Evaluate experience with relevant control systems and software platforms
- Assess problem-solving capabilities through scenario-based questions
- Verify language proficiency required for your project
- Check references from previous automation projects
- Consider cultural fit with your existing engineering team
Step 5: Onboard Successfully
- Create comprehensive employment agreements with clear scope and expectations
- Provide access to necessary technical documentation and systems
- Establish communication protocols with existing engineering teams
- Define project methodologies and documentation standards
- Implement proper knowledge transfer procedures
- Set clear milestones and performance expectations
For companies using an EOR solution, Asanify simplifies this process by handling the complex employment compliance aspects while allowing you to focus on finding the right technical talent and integrating them into your automation projects.
Salary Benchmarks
Understanding the competitive compensation landscape is essential when hiring warehouse automation engineers in Belgium. Salaries vary based on experience level, technical specialization, and location within Belgium.
| Experience Level | Annual Gross Salary Range (EUR) | Additional Benefits (Typical) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-3 years) | €42,000 – €55,000 | Meal vouchers, health insurance, commuting allowance |
| Mid-Level (3-7 years) | €55,000 – €75,000 | Above + company car, pension plan, performance bonuses |
| Senior-Level (7+ years) | €75,000 – €95,000 | Above + expanded benefits package, profit sharing |
| Lead/Principal Engineer | €90,000 – €120,000+ | Comprehensive package including additional allowances and executive benefits |
Factors Affecting Compensation
- Technical specialization: Expertise in advanced technologies like robotics integration, artificial intelligence, or specialized control systems can command premium rates
- Industry experience: Prior experience in e-commerce, pharmaceutical, or other specialized warehouse environments may increase compensation
- Certifications: Specialized certifications in automation platforms (Siemens, Rockwell, etc.) or project management can boost salary expectations
- Language skills: Engineers fluent in multiple languages (especially Dutch, French, English, and German) often command higher compensation
- Location: Positions in Brussels or Antwerp typically offer higher salaries than those in smaller cities
Mandatory Benefits in Belgium
In addition to base salary, Belgian employment packages must include:
- Annual vacation pay (approximately 92% of monthly salary)
- 13th-month bonus (end-of-year premium)
- Health insurance contributions
- Pension scheme contributions
- Family allowance contributions
- Meal vouchers (typically €8 per working day)
Note that employer costs in Belgium include substantial social security contributions (approximately 25% on top of gross salary), which should be factored into total compensation budgeting.
What Skills to Look for When Hiring Warehouse Automation Engineers
To identify the most qualified warehouse automation engineers in Belgium, evaluate candidates across both technical expertise and soft skills:
Essential Technical Skills
- Control system programming: Proficiency with industrial automation platforms (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Schneider, etc.) and programming languages (Ladder Logic, Structured Text, Function Block)
- System integration: Experience connecting diverse automation components (conveyors, robots, vision systems, etc.) into cohesive systems
- Industrial networking: Knowledge of protocols like EtherNet/IP, Profinet, EtherCAT, and OPC UA for automation system communication
- HMI development: Ability to design effective operator interfaces and visualization systems
- Robotics expertise: Experience with industrial robots, AGVs/AMRs, and robotic picking systems
- Warehouse software systems: Understanding of WMS, WCS, and WES platforms and their integration
- Electrical engineering: Knowledge of industrial electrical systems, panel design, and safety circuits
- Mechanical systems: Understanding of conveyor systems, sortation equipment, and material handling mechanisms
- Safety systems: Familiarity with machinery safety standards (ISO 13849, IEC 62061) and implementation
Critical Soft Skills
- Problem-solving capabilities: Ability to troubleshoot complex automation issues and develop effective solutions
- Project management: Experience coordinating multiple stakeholders and technical disciplines
- Communication skills: Clear documentation and explanation of technical concepts to diverse audiences
- Adaptability: Flexibility to work with different automation platforms and technologies as required
- Collaborative approach: Ability to work effectively with mechanical engineers, software developers, and operations personnel
- Analytical thinking: Systematic approach to optimization and performance improvement
- Client interaction: Professional communication with stakeholders and end users
Valuable Additional Qualifications
- Industry certifications: Platform-specific certifications from major automation vendors (Siemens, Rockwell, etc.)
- Project methodology expertise: Experience with structured approaches like Agile for automation projects
- Multilingual capabilities: Proficiency in Dutch, French, English, and possibly German
- Commissioning experience: Track record of successful system startups and handovers
- Performance optimization: Experience improving throughput, accuracy, and efficiency of automation systems
- ROI analysis: Ability to quantify automation benefits and payback periods
- Emerging technology knowledge: Familiarity with AI, machine learning, digital twins, and other advanced concepts
When evaluating candidates, prioritize those with direct experience in warehouse automation projects rather than just general industrial automation, as warehouse environments present unique challenges and requirements.
Legal and Compliance Considerations
Hiring warehouse automation engineers in Belgium requires adherence to several important legal and compliance areas:
Employment Law Requirements
- Employment contracts: Written contracts are mandatory and must include specific elements under Belgian law
- Collective bargaining agreements: Engineers typically fall under Joint Committee 111 (metal, mechanical and electrical construction) or 200 (auxiliary white-collar workers)
- Working hours: Standard 38-hour work week with strict regulations on overtime
- Notice periods: Legally mandated termination notice periods based on seniority
- Annual leave: Minimum 20 working days plus 10 public holidays
- Trial periods: Regulations on probationary clauses in contracts
Intellectual Property Considerations
- IP ownership: Clear contractual provisions regarding inventions and innovations
- Non-compete clauses: Restrictions on post-employment competition (subject to specific limitations under Belgian law)
- Confidentiality: Protection of proprietary automation designs and methodologies
- Patent rights: Understanding Belgian and EU patent regulations for automation innovations
Engineering-Specific Regulations
- Professional qualifications: Recognition of engineering degrees and certifications
- CE marking: Compliance with European machinery directives for automated systems
- Safety standards: Adherence to EN ISO 13849, IEC 62061, and other safety requirements
- Technical documentation: Requirements for system documentation and risk assessments
Remote Work Considerations
- Home office allowances: Legal requirements for reimbursing remote work expenses
- Equipment provision: Obligations to provide necessary tools and technology
- Work environment: Employer responsibilities for ergonomic and safe home workspaces
- Working time monitoring: Compliance with tracking requirements for remote employees
Data Protection
- GDPR compliance: Protection of employee personal data
- Data security: Measures for protecting sensitive automation designs and specifications
- Cross-border data transfers: Regulations on sharing technical information internationally
Navigating these complex requirements can be challenging for companies without established Belgian operations. Using an Employer of Record service like Asanify ensures compliance with all relevant regulations while allowing you to focus on the technical and operational aspects of your warehouse automation projects.
Common Challenges Global Employers Face
Companies hiring warehouse automation engineers in Belgium often encounter several key challenges:
Competitive Talent Market
Belgium’s warehouse automation sector faces strong demand for specialized skills:
- Limited pool of engineers with specialized warehouse automation expertise
- Competition from established logistics companies and automation vendors
- Rising salary expectations due to market demand
- Extended recruitment timelines for specialized roles
- Difficulty attracting talent without an established local presence
Complex Employment Regulations
Belgian employment law creates several hurdles for international employers:
- Strict termination protections and notice requirements
- Complex collective bargaining agreement provisions
- Mandatory benefits and allowances
- Detailed documentation requirements for employment contracts
- Language requirements for employment documents (Dutch/French depending on region)
Project-Based Employment Challenges
Warehouse automation often involves project-based work with specific challenges:
- Aligning employment terms with project timelines
- Managing ramp-up and ramp-down of engineering resources
- Ensuring knowledge transfer between project phases
- Balancing permanent staff with temporary resources
- Contractor misclassification risks for project-based engagements
Cross-Border Collaboration Complexities
Integrating Belgian engineers with global teams presents coordination challenges:
- Synchronizing work across different time zones
- Managing cultural differences in engineering approaches
- Standardizing documentation across multinational teams
- Ensuring consistent methodology and quality standards
- Coordinating remote and on-site engineering activities
Intellectual Property Protection
Safeguarding automation innovations requires careful management:
- Ensuring clear IP ownership in employment agreements
- Managing confidential information across distributed teams
- Navigating Belgian and EU patent regulations
- Protecting proprietary automation designs and methodologies
- Balancing knowledge sharing with information security
Asanify’s EOR solution addresses many of these challenges by handling the complex employment and compliance aspects, allowing your company to focus on the technical and operational integration of Belgian automation engineers with your warehouse projects.
Best Practices for Managing Remote Warehouse Automation Engineers in Belgium
While warehouse automation projects often require on-site work, many engineering tasks can be performed remotely. Here are best practices for effectively managing Belgian automation engineers in remote or hybrid settings:
Establish Clear Technical Requirements and Documentation
- Develop detailed specifications for automation systems and components
- Standardize documentation formats and version control procedures
- Create comprehensive design guidelines and standards
- Implement structured approval workflows for technical deliverables
- Utilize collaborative engineering tools with strong documentation capabilities
Implement Effective Collaboration Tools
- Deploy specialized engineering collaboration platforms
- Utilize virtual simulation environments for testing and validation
- Implement PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems for design management
- Use screen sharing and remote access tools for troubleshooting
- Provide access to control system emulation platforms
- Establish secure file sharing solutions for large technical documents
Create Clear Communication Protocols
- Establish regular technical review meetings with defined agendas
- Develop escalation procedures for critical engineering issues
- Define communication expectations for different project phases
- Create dedicated channels for different technical disciplines
- Document key decisions and action items thoroughly
- Respect Belgian business hours and holiday schedule
Balance Remote Work with Necessary Site Visits
- Identify phases requiring physical presence (commissioning, testing)
- Plan strategic site visits for critical milestones
- Utilize local technicians for eyes-on-site when engineers work remotely
- Implement visual collaboration tools (smart glasses, mobile cameras)
- Create detailed site survey documentation to support remote engineering
Support Professional Development
- Provide access to training on relevant automation platforms and technologies
- Support certification in specialized areas (robotics, safety systems)
- Encourage participation in Belgian and European automation communities
- Create opportunities for knowledge sharing with your global engineering team
- Recognize and leverage unique Belgian expertise in logistics automation
Respect Belgian Work Culture
- Acknowledge the importance of work-life balance in Belgian culture
- Recognize regional differences (Flemish vs. Walloon approaches)
- Appreciate the direct communication style typical in Belgian engineering
- Understand the collaborative decision-making culture
- Respect the strong emphasis on planning and structured approaches
Implementing these practices creates an environment where Belgian warehouse automation engineers can effectively contribute to your projects regardless of physical location, while maintaining high standards of technical quality and collaboration.
Why Use Asanify to Hire Warehouse Automation Engineers in Belgium
Asanify offers specialized Employer of Record (EOR) services that solve the unique challenges of hiring warehouse automation engineering talent in Belgium:
Specialized Technical Employment Expertise
- Understanding of engineering role classifications and requirements
- Experience with appropriate compensation structures for automation specialists
- Familiarity with relevant collective bargaining agreements (Joint Committees 111 and 200)
- Knowledge of industry-standard benefits for technical professionals
- Ability to structure appropriate IP and confidentiality provisions
Streamlined Hiring Process
- Rapid employment setup without Belgian entity establishment
- Compliant employment contracts tailored for engineering roles
- Efficient onboarding aligned with project timelines
- Ability to quickly scale engineering teams up or down
- Support for both permanent and project-based hiring needs
Comprehensive Compliance Management
- Full adherence to Belgian employment regulations
- Management of all tax withholding and social security contributions
- Proper administration of mandatory and supplementary benefits
- Compliance with working time regulations for engineering roles
- Proper documentation in required languages (Dutch/French)
- Management of any work permits or visas for non-EU engineers
Project Flexibility
- Support for alignment between employment terms and project timelines
- Ability to transition between projects without administrative complexity
- Options for both on-site and remote work arrangements
- Capability to manage engineers across multiple locations in Belgium
- Flexibility to adjust employment terms as project needs evolve
Risk Mitigation
- Protection from contractor misclassification risks
- Proper handling of intellectual property provisions
- Management of confidentiality requirements
- Compliance with Belgian health and safety regulations
- Proper handling of any employment disputes or terminations
- Insurance coverage appropriate for engineering activities
With Asanify as your EOR partner, you can quickly and compliantly secure the specialized warehouse automation engineering talent needed for your projects in Belgium, without navigating the complexities of entity setup or mastering Belgian employment regulations independently.
FAQs: Hiring Warehouse Automation Engineers in Belgium
What is the average salary for warehouse automation engineers in Belgium?
Warehouse automation engineers in Belgium typically earn between €42,000-55,000 for entry-level positions, €55,000-75,000 for mid-level roles, and €75,000-95,000+ for senior engineers, with lead engineers commanding €90,000-120,000+. These figures represent gross annual salaries and vary based on specialization, location, and experience. Additional benefits like company cars and performance bonuses are standard expectations.
Do I need to establish a legal entity in Belgium to hire warehouse automation engineers?
No, establishing a legal entity is not required. Using an Employer of Record (EOR) service like Asanify allows you to legally hire warehouse automation engineers in Belgium without setting up your own entity. The EOR handles all employment compliance, payroll, and benefits administration while you maintain day-to-day operational management of your engineering team members.
What technical skills are most important for warehouse automation engineers in Belgium?
The most valued technical skills include proficiency with industrial control systems (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Schneider), experience with warehouse management systems (WMS) and warehouse control systems (WCS), robotics integration capabilities, material handling systems expertise, and knowledge of industrial networking protocols. Strong system integration skills and experience with safety systems compliance are also highly valued in the Belgian market.
How long does it typically take to hire a warehouse automation engineer in Belgium?
The hiring timeline for specialized warehouse automation engineers typically ranges from 6-10 weeks, including recruitment (3-4 weeks), interview process (2-3 weeks), and notice period (1-3 months depending on seniority). Using an EOR service like Asanify can streamline the administrative aspects but won’t affect candidates’ notice period obligations to their current employers.
What language skills should I look for in Belgian automation engineers?
For comprehensive coverage across Belgium, engineers should ideally be fluent in both Dutch and French, plus English for international projects. In Flanders (northern Belgium), Dutch and English are essential; in Wallonia (southern Belgium), French and English are required. Many Belgian engineers are trilingual, making them valuable for international projects and documentation across multiple languages.
How do I protect intellectual property when hiring automation engineers in Belgium?
Intellectual property protection requires clear contractual provisions regarding ownership of inventions, innovations, and technical solutions. Belgian employment law has specific provisions regarding employee inventions that must be addressed in contracts. When using an EOR service like Asanify, appropriate IP assignment clauses can be incorporated into employment agreements to protect your automation intellectual property.
What are the mandatory benefits for employees in Belgium?
Mandatory benefits include health insurance contributions, pension scheme, annual vacation pay (approximately 92% of monthly salary), end-of-year premium (13th month), and meal vouchers (typically €8 per working day). Most employers also provide commuting allowances or company cars, especially for engineering roles. When using Asanify’s EOR services, all mandatory benefits are properly structured and administered.
Can warehouse automation engineers work remotely from Belgium?
Yes, many aspects of warehouse automation engineering can be performed remotely, particularly system design, programming, and project planning. However, certain phases like commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting typically require on-site presence. Belgian employment law has specific requirements for remote workers, including allowances for home office expenses, which Asanify can help manage compliantly.
What are the key differences between hiring contractors versus employees for automation projects?
Hiring contractors offers flexibility and specialized expertise for specific project phases but presents risks of misclassification under Belgian law, which has strict criteria for independent contractors. Employees provide more stability and stronger IP protection but require compliance with employment regulations. An EOR solution offers a middle ground, providing employment compliance while maintaining project flexibility.
How does Belgian work culture differ from other countries?
Belgian engineering culture emphasizes thoroughness, planning, and attention to detail. Work-life balance is strongly valued, with clear boundaries between professional and personal time. Decision-making tends to be collaborative, and communication is typically direct and focused on technical specifics. Belgian engineers expect autonomy in their technical approach while working within defined project frameworks and standards.
What certifications or qualifications are most valuable for warehouse automation engineers in Belgium?
Valuable certifications include platform-specific qualifications from major automation vendors (Siemens SIMATIC, Rockwell Automation, etc.), safety system certifications (TÜV Functional Safety), project management credentials (PMP, PRINCE2), and specialized robotics certifications. Belgian engineering degrees are highly regarded, particularly from technical universities like KU Leuven, Ghent University, and VUB.
How can I ensure compliance with Belgian safety regulations for automation systems?
Compliance with Belgian safety regulations requires adherence to European machinery directives, implementation of safety standards like EN ISO 13849 and IEC 62061, proper risk assessments, and CE marking procedures. Hiring engineers familiar with these requirements is essential. Additionally, ensuring proper documentation in the required languages (Dutch/French) is necessary for regulatory compliance.
Conclusion
Hiring warehouse automation engineers in Belgium offers global companies access to specialized technical expertise in a country that serves as a strategic logistics hub for Europe. With its strong educational infrastructure, multilingual workforce, and deep experience in automation technologies, Belgium provides an excellent talent pool for companies implementing or expanding warehouse automation initiatives.
The success of your warehouse automation projects depends significantly on securing the right engineering talent with the specific technical skills and experience needed for your systems. Whether you’re implementing conveyor systems, robotics, automated storage and retrieval systems, or sophisticated warehouse management software, finding engineers with relevant expertise is crucial.
For companies without an established presence in Belgium, the Employer of Record model offers a streamlined path to hiring qualified automation engineers without the complexity and time investment of entity setup. This approach ensures full compliance with Belgian employment regulations while providing the flexibility needed for project-based work.
By following the guidance in this comprehensive hiring guide and leveraging specialized services like Asanify’s EOR solution, you can efficiently build your warehouse automation engineering team in Belgium, ensuring both technical excellence and regulatory compliance. This strategic approach allows you to focus on your core automation objectives while navigating the complexities of international hiring with confidence.
Not to be considered as tax, legal, financial or HR advice. Regulations change over time so please consult a lawyer, accountant or Labour Law expert for specific guidance.

