Starting as a freelance engineer: where do you begin?
More autonomy and a higher rate beckon, but freelancing is more than a status switch. The trade-offs in a row.
More and more engineers consider going freelance. Understandably: more autonomy, varied projects and a rate that reflects your expertise. But the switch is more than a change of status, and preparation decides whether it becomes a success. This is the checklist we walk through with candidates before they jump.
Do the honest maths first
A day rate looks impressive next to a monthly salary, but it also has to cover your holidays, sick days, social contributions, insurances, accountant and periods without an assignment. Make the sum concrete: 550 euros a day sounds like 11,000 euros a month, but count on 180 to 210 invoiced days a year instead of 260, subtract roughly 20 percent social contributions, plus insurances, accounting, equipment and pension build-up. Only then compare what remains with your current package, including car, group insurance and paid leave. Freelancing often still comes out attractive, but the gap is smaller than the day rate suggests.
Arrange the basics before you jump
An accountant who knows technical freelancers, professional liability insurance, and at least six months of fixed costs as a buffer in the bank: that is the minimum before you resign. Also think about guaranteed income insurance (as a self-employed person, illness quickly leaves you with very little) and pension build-up through the Belgian VAPZ or IPT schemes. Not sexy topics, but arranging them upfront lets you freelance with a clear head.
Sole trader or company
If you start modestly or want to test freelance life, a sole proprietorship is quick and cheap to set up. If you generate structurally good revenue, a company becomes fiscally more attractive, but it brings incorporation costs, double-entry accounting and administration. The right choice depends on your revenue, family situation and plans; have your accountant calculate both scenarios instead of copying what a colleague did.
The first assignment
The safest start is a long-running first assignment lined up before you leave. Feel free to work with a partner who knows the demand side: we see daily which companies are looking for freelance expertise and which profiles they have budget for. That way you start with certainty instead of an empty pipeline, and from day one you build references that win your next assignments.
And remember: freelancing is not a one-way street. Those who prefer going back to permanent after two years usually return with a stronger profile and a bigger network.
Frequently asked questions
How many invoiced days per year are realistic?
Count on 180 to 210 days. From 260 working days, subtract your holidays, public holidays, sick days, training days and the gaps between assignments. Anyone counting on 220 or more builds their business plan on the best case instead of the average.
Can I go back to a permanent contract later?
Yes, and it happens more often than you think. Employers rarely see freelance experience as a drawback: you have worked in different environments and are used to delivering results independently. The only point of attention is your story: being able to explain why you are returning makes the conversation easy.
Take the next step in your career
Browse our open technical vacancies, each with a clear salary range.