My job in Belgium: How much does a Brussels bus driver earn?

What is your job?

I have been a bus driver with the Stib for almost three years. Every morning I go to the bus depot and after filling in all the necessary paperwork (route plan for the start of every trip) I get behind the steering wheel and drive various bus routes all over Brussels. 

Do you like your job? 

Of course. I'm 100% satisfied with my job. We're talking about a job that I consciously chose to do and that I have a lot of fun doing. I love the routes and the connection with the customers and passengers. I get a lot of pleasure talking to the people that remember me or just to say hello to a stranger who'll reply with the same enthusiasm. 

Also the personal relationships between colleagues is very good and the hierarchy is respected. If someone is sick or would prefer to work mornings instead or the afternoons then we'll rely on those relationships to change our schedules. I work with precision because I like to do things well. The Stib like stability and if you work well it's possible to really develop your career here. 

What do you think of your salary? 

At the moment I'm single and live with my parents, so I'm happy with what I earn (€2,400 gross, €1,900-€2,000 net depending on the number of Saturdays worked, plus meal vouchers, hospitalisation insurance and free public transport). If I need a larger income in the future, then I won't hesitate to work during my holidays, in the evenings, in the weekend or during public holidays in order to have what I need at the end of the month. I can live perfectly well with my salary.

How many hours a week do you work? 

In general I work 38 hours per week but that can vary from week to week (between 36 and 40 hours). 

Do you save?

Of course, every month I try to put away €250 to €300. I don't deny myself anything and treat myself often. I try to take advantage of the fact that I'm still living with my parents.

What is your biggest expense? 

As I have no rent or mortgage to pay, my holidays take the biggest chunk from my salary. Also I have a slight passion for shopping and I spend a lot on clothes, handbags, shoes.

What can you absolutely not spend money on?  

Like so many people I hate having to pay fines. I also won't spend money on expensive accessories because afterwards I won't use it or use it a lot less than I expected. 

What would you gladly spend money on? 

Without a doubt, holidays. I have discovered that every now and then it's good to spontaneously take a few city trips if the opportunity arises. Also I rarely say no to a meal in a good restaurant. Gastronomy and me is a real love story. 

What would you do if you won the lottery? 

I would invest my winnings and watch them grow. I would be the most helpful of helpful people. I would also think of myself of course, I'd put some of it in a savings account and I'd buy property.