Becoming a CFC electrician in Switzerland

The trade

• 30,000 electricians active in Switzerland
• Acute shortage: 8,000-10,000 open positions
• Demand driven by energy renovation, EV charging stations, home automation
• CLA: strong sector protection

CFC apprenticeship

• Duration: 4 years (3 in some cases)
• Routes: assembly electrician, electrical fitter, electrical installer
• Dual apprenticeship: 3-4 days/week company + 1-2 days school
• Apprentice salary: CHF 800-2,000/month (progressive)
• Conditions: end of compulsory schooling + technical aptitude

Evolution

• Federal electrician project manager diploma: 1-2 years post-CFC
• Master craftsman diploma: required for self-employment
• Federal energy expert diploma

Salaries

• Apprentice: CHF 800-2,000/month
• Starting CFC electrician: CHF 5,200-6,200/month
• 5-10 years XP: CHF 6,500-8,000/month
• Home automation / EV specialist: CHF 7,500-9,500/month
• Team leader: CHF 8,000-10,500/month
• Self-employed master: CHF 100-200K/year

2026 specialisations

• EV charging stations: vehicle charging installation
• Photovoltaic: solar installation
• Home automation: smart home (KNX, Loxone)
• Industry 4.0: automation

Tips

• Find a training employer: électricité.ch offers listings
• Driving licence essential: client travel
• Master diploma: opens self-employment, 30-40% margin
• Communicate in German: numerous opportunities in German-speaking Switzerland
• Learn home automation early: differentiates and raises salary