Design & Media · EBA
Bookbinding Assistant EBA
Basic bookbinding tasks.
About this profession
Basic bookbinding tasks. Over 2 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 Certificate (EBA).
Day-to-day responsibilities
- ›Staple and bind books and brochures
- ›Cut and fold paper materials
- ›Operate and monitor machinery
- ›Prepare materials for production
Skills you'll need
A typical week as an apprentice
Host company
3 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
Design studios, agencies, in-house creative teams or as a freelancer.
Entry requirements
- Completed compulsory school. The EBA is a strong fit for hands-on learners; close support during the apprenticeship is built in.
- 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 Certificate (EBA) — a recognised qualification with a clear path to bridge into a 3-year EFZ apprenticeship (often shortened).
Apprentice wage
Typical monthly gross wage (CHF). Actual wages vary by sector and region.
Year 1
CHF 600 – 800/ Mt.
Year 2
CHF 800 – 1’100/ Mt.
Future-readiness
Score 2/5Our take
The profession remains relevant for specialized and niche products, but requires adaptability to automation and evolving technologies in daily tasks.
Sources
Early contract endings in this field
Across Design & Media apprenticeships, roughly 18–26% of contracts are ended early, compared with about 23% nationally. Most of those apprentices continue their training elsewhere.
Further education & career
- Bookbinder EFZ/CFC/AFC
- Federal vocational baccalaureate (MP)
- Further training at VET schools
- Specializations in bookbinding
Learn more
Official sources and further information about this profession.