How long does a career change to Joiner / Cabinet Maker EFZ take?

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

What does a career change to Joiner / Cabinet Maker EFZ cost?

Estimated costs are CHF 100–3'000.

Do I need a regular apprenticeship for Joiner / Cabinet Maker EFZ?

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

How much do you earn as Joiner / Cabinet Maker EFZ?

The median salary is ~CHF 82'000 per year (approximate).

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Career change

Career change to Joiner / Cabinet Maker EFZ

You build furniture, doors, windows, and interior fittings from wood.

You don't need a second youth apprenticeship. With work experience there's a realistic route to the Joiner / Cabinet Maker EFZ 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 82'000

✓ 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 64'000

Mid

~CHF 82'000

Senior

~CHF 100'040

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

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