AI Engineer Jobs in Utrecht
The Smart Alternative to Amsterdam.

Utrecht has emerged as the Netherlands' second-largest tech hub with significant AI activity. Utrecht University's AI department drives research commercialization, while major employers like Rabobank (one of the world's largest banks) and ASR Insurance run substantial AI teams. The gaming industry (including studios working on ML for game development) and health tech sector add diversity. While smaller than Amsterdam, Utrecht offers less competition and a more focused community where networking yields faster results.

Key Utrecht AI employers include: Rabobank (ML for risk, fraud detection, customer analytics), ASR Insurance (predictive modeling, automation), Utrecht University and its spin-offs (research positions, NLP, computer vision), gaming companies like Guerrilla Games satellite teams, health tech firms in the Utrecht Science Park, and growing startups in the Jaarbeurs area. Many Amsterdam-headquartered companies also have Utrecht offices due to its central location and lower costs.

Utrecht AI salaries typically range from EUR 55,000-80,000 for mid-level engineers and EUR 80,000-110,000+ for senior roles in 2026. While slightly lower than peak Amsterdam salaries, the cost of living advantage (especially housing) means your purchasing power is often comparable or better. Banking and insurance sectors tend to pay at the higher end. Factor in the Dutch 30% ruling tax benefit if you're relocating internationally - it makes a significant difference.

Consider Utrecht if: you value quality of life (easier housing, less crowded, more affordable), you want to work in banking/finance AI (Rabobank HQ), you prefer a tight-knit tech community over a massive market, or you're interested in research-adjacent roles near Utrecht University. Utrecht is also just 25 minutes from Amsterdam by train, so you can access Amsterdam networking events while enjoying Utrecht living. Many senior AI professionals make exactly this choice.

Yes, Utrecht's tech sector operates primarily in English, especially at international companies and university-connected organizations. Rabobank, ASR, and most tech companies use English as their working language for technical teams. However, learning basic Dutch accelerates networking and daily life. The Utrecht International Center and expat communities provide excellent support. For client-facing roles in smaller Dutch companies, some Dutch may eventually be expected.

Utrecht consistently ranks as the Netherlands' most livable city. Key advantages: a beautiful historic center with canals, significantly easier housing market than Amsterdam, excellent cycling infrastructure, Utrecht Science Park campus with modern facilities, family-friendly with great schools, and central location connecting to all major Dutch cities in under an hour. The city attracts professionals who want serious careers without sacrificing lifestyle. Many engineers who start in Amsterdam relocate to Utrecht after a few years.

Not necessarily. While some programming experience is helpful, many of my clients have successfully transitioned from web development, data science, or other technical backgrounds. We'll assess your current skills during our strategy call and create a personalized plan that meets you where you are.

Most clients invest 10-15 hours per week, but this can be flexible based on your schedule. We'll have weekly 1:1 calls plus time for you to work on projects and learning. The key is consistency. Regular, focused effort beats occasional marathons.

You become a member of the AI Native Engineer community, and you stay and keep going. Career transitions take different amounts of time for everyone, and I'm not going to abandon you if things take longer. You get ongoing support through good times and bad.

Online courses give you content. 1:1 coaching gives you a personalized roadmap, direct feedback on your work, career strategy, interview prep, and accountability. You get answers to your specific questions and guidance tailored to your unique situation instead of generic advice meant for everyone.

Investment details are discussed during the 30-minute strategy call, where we'll assess your goals and create a custom plan. The program is designed to pay for itself quickly through your increased salary. Most AI engineers see a 20-50% pay increase.

Absolutely. Most of my clients work full-time and make steady progress. We'll schedule calls at times that work for you and create a realistic plan that fits your schedule. Consistency matters more than intensity.