Do I need a regular apprenticeship for Automation Engineer (Federal VET Diploma)?

Not necessarily. With work experience you can earn the qualification via Art. 32 VPETA, saving about 36 months.

How much do you earn as Automation Engineer (Federal VET Diploma)?

The median salary is ~CHF 76'000 per year (approximate).

Career change

Career change to Automation Engineer (Federal VET Diploma)

You develop, build and program automated systems and control systems for industry.

You don't need a second youth apprenticeship. With work experience there's a realistic route to the Automation Engineer (Federal VET Diploma) qualification — here are the duration, costs and how your experience is recognised.

Career change via experience (Art. 32 BBG)

Duration

66–72 months

Costs

CHF 100–3'000

Salary after

~CHF 76'000

✓ Art. 32 VPETA· saves ~36 months

Typically 5+ years of relevant work experience let you sit the final qualification exam directly — without a regular apprenticeship.

How the path works

1
Work experience
60 months
2
Final apprenticeship exam (Art. 32 BBG)
6–12 months · CHF 100–3'000

Salary progression

Entry

~CHF 58'000

Mid

~CHF 76'000

Senior

~CHF 105'000

Approximate values — they vary by region, employer and experience.

Is Automation Engineer (Federal VET Diploma) really right for you? Find out in a few minutes.

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