R&D Project Engineer Diogo

Diogo is a 28-year-old Mechanical Engineer from Portugal, working as an R&D Project Engineer within the Product Development Industry. This was not only a new job at a new company but also a new home in a new country. An interesting project to experience living abroad.

As an R&D Project Engineer, Diogo is responsible for designing the hydraulic systems of an all-electric heat pump module, focused specifically on domestic hot water systems. He develops, materializes, and prototypes the products he creates. “I think the most enjoyable part of my work is that I’m able to accompany the full process of the project, starting from sketches and seeing them slowly turning into fully working, series-production-ready machines,” says Diogo.

Job Search in the Area of Utrecht

Diogo got in contact with AKOS T-Level through an application for an in-house vacancy. “After an introductory meeting with Bram Van de Schee, I accepted the help of AKOS T-Level to find a position better suited to both my skills and personality within the area of Utrecht,” explained Diogo. AKOS T-Level helped him with the search for a job that was appealing to him. “The first questions that normally go through my head are: Does the subject interest me? Do I see myself doing this for a long time? After that, I think it is key that the work environment allows you to be yourself and to be relaxed during your work hours. In the mechanical engineering field, stress is almost always a certain factor within certain phases of the project. A good working environment is key to surpass these moments.”

Working Abroad

Diogo finished his Master’s six years ago and began his professional career by enrolling in a four-year stint within the world of climatic chambers in Portugal. “In these first four years of work experience, I developed my knowledge in refrigeration systems, mechanical structures design, and a few basics of machine control logic and electrical systems. I also became proficient in 3D CAD as I was responsible for the design of the machines,” says Diogo.

Moving from Portugal to the Netherlands was a two-person project. Diogo and his girlfriend wanted to experience living abroad. “Since we both would like to experience the North European way of living, but also stay in a very central position to be able to travel around, the Netherlands seemed a very nice mix of good work culture, friendly people, and various opportunities.”

Diogo continues: “So far, the experience has matched the expectations with the surplus that the Dutch are more welcoming than we initially anticipated. Also, in this country, there is a great amount of respect for the employees, and we find that a healthy work-life balance is easily achieved.”

Objective Advice and Support

Changing jobs always has its challenges. If you combine a new job with moving to a new home in a new country, the challenges you face can be extra difficult. The role of AKOS T-Level during the search for a new job can vary. As every person is unique, the search and support from AKOS T-Level is tailored to the wishes and needs of each candidate. Diogo was matched with Consultant Bram during his search. “As an objective advisor, I could assist Diogo on various levels. From negotiating wages and benefits to explaining different types of rules in the Netherlands. We try to make the switch as smooth as possible,” Senior Consultant Bram explains.

Support that was very welcome for Diogo. “Not knowing the market standards and bureaucracy of the Dutch system, I could always count on their support to better understand it. As an example, they supported me in obtaining a tax deduction for highly skilled foreign workers.” Diogo continues: “My experience with AKOS T-Level was very, very good. I always felt a genuine care for my well-being as every month or so I would receive a message, a phone call or even occasionally an in-person visit to see how the process was going. From the first meeting I felt genuine care for how my future was going to turn out. Even through his parental leave Bram kept a small line of contact to understand if things were going ok with the process. During that time, I was also assisted by Danny which was also impeccable.”

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