How long does a career change to Design Engineer (Federal VET Diploma) take?

Via the "Career change via experience (Art. 32 BBG)" route, expect 66–72 months.

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

The median salary is ~CHF 74'000 per year (approximate).

← New start

Career change

Career change to Design Engineer (Federal VET Diploma)

Creating technical drawings and 3D models for machinery.

You don't need a second youth apprenticeship. With work experience there's a realistic route to the Design 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 74'000

✓ 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 74'000

Senior

~CHF 88'000

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

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