IT & Engineering · EFZ
Laboratory Technician EFZ
Carry out chemical, biological or textile analyses.
About this profession
Carry out chemical, biological or textile analyses. Over 3 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
- ›Prepare samples, conduct experiments/analyses.
- ›Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment.
- ›Document and evaluate test results accurately.
- ›Perform quality controls following protocols.
Skills you'll need
A typical week as an apprentice
Host company
3 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 950 – 1’200/ Mt.
Year 3
CHF 1’300 – 1’700/ Mt.
Future-readiness
Score 4/5Our take
Demand for skilled lab technicians remains steady. Adaptability to new technologies ensures long-term career prospects in this evolving field.
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 (e.g., Laboratory Technician)
- College of Higher Education (e.g., Biotechnology)
- Vocational Baccalaureate + University of Applied Sciences
- Specialization in analytics or research & development
Learn more
Official sources and further information about this profession.