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IT & Engineering · EFZ

Automation Technician EFZ

Build and maintain automated systems, robotics and controls.

About this profession

Build and maintain automated systems, robotics and controls. Over 4 years you learn this profession in a host company, at the vocational school and in inter-company courses. At the end you receive a nationally recognised Federal VET Diploma (EFZ).

Day-to-day responsibilities

  • ›Develop electronic control hardware and software
  • ›Assemble automated systems and machinery
  • ›Program and commission robotic systems
  • ›Analyze faults and troubleshoot malfunctions

Skills you'll need

Logical thinkingTechnical understandingPrecisionTeam playerRoboticsProgramming

A typical week as an apprentice

Host company

3–4 days/week — you learn the trade hands-on alongside experienced professionals.

Vocational school

1–2 days/week — general education plus job-specific theory.

Inter-company courses (üK)

Several blocks per year — practise core techniques together with other apprentices.

Where you'll work

Software houses, IT departments, engineering firms, start-ups and large industrial companies.

Entry requirements

  • Completed compulsory school (Sek A or B, depending on profession). Strong school report in relevant subjects helps.
  • A 'Schnupperlehre' (1–5 day taster) is the best way to find out if the profession suits you.

What you earn at the end

Federal VET Diploma (EFZ) — a nationally recognised qualification that opens doors to higher VET (HF), the vocational baccalaureate (BM) and universities of applied sciences.

Apprentice wage

Typical monthly gross wage (CHF). Actual wages vary by sector and region.

Year 1

CHF 700 – 900/ Mt.

Year 2

CHF 900 – 1’150/ Mt.

Year 3

CHF 1’200 – 1’550/ Mt.

Year 4

CHF 1’500 – 1’950/ Mt.

Future-readiness

Score 4/5
StrongHighly future-proof
Demand trend4/5
Adaptability4/5
Automation risk2/5

Our take

Demand for automation technicians remains high as industries heavily rely on digitalization and smart systems.

Sources

Early contract endings in this field

Across IT & Engineering apprenticeships, roughly 12–18% of contracts are ended early, compared with about 23% nationally. Most of those apprentices continue their training elsewhere.

Further education & career

  • Federal PET Diploma (BP) e.g. Automation Specialist
  • Advanced Federal Diploma of Higher Education (HF)
  • Vocational Baccalaureate, then university of applied sciences
  • Specialization in robotics or Industry 4.0

Learn more

Official sources and further information about this profession.