en
2026
Finding a new job may seem straightforward. There are plenty of vacancies, recruiters reaching out every day, and LinkedIn is full of interesting opportunities. Yet many technical professionals discover that choosing the right opportunity is much more difficult. Which employer is the best fit? Where will you have the greatest opportunities to grow? And how can you tell whether a role truly matches your ambitions?
We spoke with Kim Houtepen, Account Manager Engineering & Industry at Trinamics. For nearly four years, she has been helping technical professionals take the next step in their careers. In this interview, she shares her experiences, addresses common misconceptions, and offers practical job interview advice.
"I'm 25 years old and live in Prinsenbeek. Shortly after graduating in Technical Business Administration, I was approached by a colleague from Trinamics. I was exploring the job market at the time and decided to have a conversation. From the very first meeting, it just felt right. That personal connection has stayed with me ever since."
That personal approach is exactly what Kim enjoys most about her role.
"No two days are the same. I work with both candidates and clients, supporting technical professionals from vocational (MBO) to university (WO) level. The best part is helping someone find a job where they're genuinely happy while also providing a client with the right solution. That's what makes this work so rewarding."
According to Kim, the engineering job market has changed significantly over the past few years.
"A competitive salary is still important, but today's candidates look far beyond pay and benefits. They want to work in a positive company culture, have flexibility, and maintain a healthy work-life balance."
She also notices that many engineers deliberately choose organizations they can genuinely be proud of.
"Many technical professionals want to contribute to products they can actually see and use. They like being able to say, 'I helped build that.' Innovation and opportunities for development play a major role in that decision."
Kim still hears the same question regularly.
"Many people believe you'll earn less if you work through a secondment agency. That's simply not true. Thanks to regulations on equal pay, employment conditions are aligned with those of the client company. You don't have to compromise on salary or benefits."
According to Kim, secondment is actually about providing additional support and creating more opportunities for professionals.
Many candidates underestimate how much preparation a successful job application requires.
"Motivation letters are sometimes too generic, candidates don't always prepare thoroughly, or their CV isn't tailored to the role. Those are exactly the areas where we provide guidance."
Because Trinamics has close relationships with both its clients and hiring managers, candidates can prepare much more effectively.
"We know how each organization operates, what questions are likely to be asked, and what employers are really looking for. That allows our candidates to enter interviews with much more confidence."
The demand for technical talent remains exceptionally high.
"Skilled technicians and maintenance engineers, in particular, are in very short supply."
As a result, technical professionals have more career options than ever before.
"That's a great position to be in, but it can also make choosing more difficult. We help candidates compare different employers and positions so they can make the right decision."
At Trinamics, our involvement doesn't end after introducing a vacancy.
The process starts with an in-depth conversation focused not only on work experience but also on personal ambitions and career goals. Next, we optimize the candidate's CV and identify the organizations that best match their aspirations.
Before every interview, we provide comprehensive preparation. Candidates receive insights into the company, the interviewer, and what to expect during the conversation. If salary negotiations follow, we offer guidance throughout the process and review the employment contract together, step by step.
Our support also continues after someone starts with a client. Through regular evaluations and personal contact, we help ensure they continue to develop and enjoy long-term career success.
According to Kim, Trinamics stands out because of its combination of market expertise and personal guidance.
"With more than twenty years of experience, we know the engineering market inside out. But ultimately, it's the personal attention that makes the difference. That's something we hear from candidates time and again. We genuinely take the time to get to know people."
That often leads to long-lasting relationships.
"I still keep in touch with candidates who have since been hired permanently by our clients. Sometimes those professional relationships even grow into personal friendships. That's what makes this job so special."
"With so many vacancies available, I completely understand why choosing can be overwhelming. My advice is simple: have a conversation. We can tell you much more about a company than you'll ever learn from a job description."
Her golden interview tip?
"Be yourself. Show genuine interest in the company, ask thoughtful questions, and let your motivation shine through. In the end, that's what makes the biggest difference."
Coffee or tea?
Coffee. "My day always starts with a good cup of coffee. It's also the perfect moment to catch up with colleagues before the workday begins."
Hybrid or office?
Office. "Personally, I prefer working in the office. It's easier to collaborate, exchange ideas, and celebrate successes together. Teamwork is incredibly important in recruitment."
CV or LinkedIn first?
CV. "A CV usually provides the clearest overview of someone's experience and background. After that, I always look at LinkedIn to get a more complete picture of the person behind the résumé."
What quality stands out to you first?
Commitment. "I pay close attention to whether someone is motivated, keeps their commitments, and is genuinely willing to invest in the next step of their career. A strong work ethic and a good personal connection make a real difference."
Your golden interview tip?
Be yourself. "Prepare thoroughly, learn about the company, and don't be afraid to ask questions. A job interview isn't a one-way conversation—it's also your opportunity to discover whether the organization is the right fit for you."
Are you curious about which engineering challenge best matches your ambitions? Kim would be happy to help you explore your options. During a no-obligation introductory meeting, she'll take the time to get to know you—not just your CV and work experience, but also your goals, talents, and plans for the future.
Thanks to her in-depth knowledge of the engineering job market and Trinamics' extensive network, she can help you find an employer where you'll have the opportunity to grow and genuinely enjoy going to work every day.
Together, you'll take the next step in your career.
In most cases, you will work for approximately one year at a single client through Trinamics. This is sufficient time to truly become part of the team and demonstrate your capabilities. At the end of this period, you will often be hired by the company. Could a project be shorter or longer? That is possible, but the starting point is always that the assignment aligns with your development and that you end up in a position where you can grow in the long term.
Yes, this happens regularly. If both you and the client are satisfied, a switch to a direct appointment is often negotiable. We will assist you in this process and ensure that it runs smoothly.
You remain employed by Trinamics. Before the end of your assignment, we will discuss the next step together. Sometimes this means that you will be taken on by the company where you are working. If that is not the case, we will help you look for a new job that matches your ambitions and qualities. This way, you always have a clear view of the next step in your career.