Wage Watchers: How much does a customs tax expert earn?

What do you do?
For 38 years I’ve been employed as a tax expert by the federal finance ministry, in the customs division. Once a week I’m at the reception, so I’m helping trade, moving the traffic of goods forward by signing the required certificates. The rest of the week I’m out in the field, carrying out tasks such as inspecting cargoes, imports as well as exports, checking on safety, health, counterfeits and so on.

Do you enjoy the work?
Yes, it’s a very interesting job. Every day we have some new business to take care of, so we have to have a broad knowledge, and you learn something new every day.

What do you think of the pay?
I earn €2,626 net per month, and I’m very happy with my salary.

How many hours a week do you work?
Currently, somewhere between 45 and 50 hours. From next year we’ll be working in shifts, so there won’t be a need for overtime any more.

Do you manage to save?
I try to save something every month, though it doesn’t always work out.

What do you enjoy spending money on?
Books, especially novels. Also music. From Arcade Fire and Elbow to classical, I’m a real glutton when it comes to music.

What do you refuse to spend money on?
Beach holidays, an expensive car, luxury items.

What would you do if you won the lottery?
Bury the money in the garden? [laughs] I might travel more, and give money to my children. Or I might buy myself a country house, or go and live in Norway or Ireland.