Construction & Trades · EFZ
Polymechanic EFZ
Manufacture precision metal parts, programme CNC machines and build mechanical systems.
About this profession
Manufacture precision metal parts, programme CNC machines and build mechanical systems. 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
- ›Read CAD drawings
- ›Programme CNC machines
- ›Assemble parts
- ›Run quality checks
Skills you'll need
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
Workshops, construction sites, industrial production halls — often working outdoors and on customer sites.
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 850 – 1’100/ Mt.
Year 3
CHF 1’100 – 1’500/ Mt.
Year 4
CHF 1’400 – 1’900/ Mt.
Future-readiness
Score 4/5Our take
Swissmem reports continuous demand for skilled workers. Industry 4.0, robotics and sustainable production broaden the role.
Early contract endings in this field
Across Construction & Trades apprenticeships, roughly 25–35% of contracts are ended early, compared with about 23% nationally. Most of those apprentices continue their training elsewhere.
Further education & career
- Higher Technician (HF)
- University of Applied Sciences (mechanical engineering)
- Designer/draftsperson
Learn more
Official sources and further information about this profession.