Wage watchers: how much does a dietitian earn?

Dietician Aukje Dierckx, 24, from Mechelen, talks about what she earns and how she spends it

What do you do for a living?

I studied nutrition and dietetics. As part of my degree, I did two internships, at the multiple sclerosis centre in Melsbroek and at the Imelda hospital in Bonheiden, near Mechelen (in the kitchens and the cardiac rehabilitation unit). Two placements where many different skills were required, and from which I learned a lot. Afterwards I had a stroke of luck: I was immediately offered a contract the Imelda hospital, first as cover for someone who went on maternity leave, then for someone who took a year off. I work in the cardiac rehabilitation unit, looking after heart patients before and after surgery . I follow their rehabilitation process . That's what I like best: working with the patient to find a tailor-made solution. Unfortunately, my contract is coming to an end and I must look for something new. I have already enrolled on a postgraduate course on the supervision of diabetics, which I can combine with a part-time job. Hopefully I will find something as nice as this later.

Do you enjoy your work?

I was fortunate to get straight into work immediately after graduating. My job is very varied, because I’m in contact with patients and specialists from different departments. As dietitian I will liaise with, for instance, a psychologist and a consultant to discuss the case of a patient we treat. That, and  the monitoring of patients on a long-term basis are two things that I enjoy tremendously.

How many hours a week do you work?

My latest contract is for 34 hours a week, spread over three long days and two mornings. In addition, I also do some one-on-one counselling. How do I divide my workload is up to me, as long as the work is done .

What do you think of your salary?

At the hospital we work with fixed scales. I take home €1,474 (+ €70 cycling incentive). It's my first job so I can’t really compare, but I think it’s certainly not a bad salary. It’s just a shame that we don’t get any bonuses. Our salaries only increase through seniority. But I’m definitely not complaining!

Would you look elsewhere if the money was better?

No. As long as I can do what I like to do, I'm satisfied . I want to save for later of course, but I am not seeking to change jobs. The atmosphere in the workplace, the colleagues, the fact that I enjoy going to work…  these things are equally important.

Do you save?

I live with my boyfriend, so three-quarters of my salary goes towards joint bills. The rest I keep to myself and I try to save a bit. I don’t have a pension scheme, although it’s been recommended to me by the bank . Once I have a steady job , I‘ll look into it.

What will you gladly pay good money for?

Going on holiday or weekend breaks. It doesn’t have to be a big holiday somewhere exotic; I’m already happy with a city trip. And I love eating out.

What do you resent parting with your money for?

Wellness. I sometimes hear my friends raving about their afternoon in the sauna, but I wouldn’t spend money on that.

Has the economic crisis affected you?

I have learnt to be sensible with money since childhood, I have nothing to worry about in that sense. But I have noticed, for example, how because of the economic crisis it is more difficult to find a job. Hospitals also need to save.

What would you do if you won the lottery ?

I would continue to work part-time, but without having to stress about money . Then I would support some charities, but not with large donations; I would give modest donations to different projects, so it wouldn’t look like I suddenly had lots of money! Eating in a Michelin-starred restaurant is also still on my list of things to do.

(kc)