Construction & Trades · EFZ
Meat Specialist EFZ
Process and refine meat.
About this profession
Process and refine meat. Over 3 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 Diploma (EFZ).
Day-to-day responsibilities
- ›Butcher and process meat
- ›Produce sausages and specialties
- ›Advise customers and sell products
- ›Ensure hygiene and quality standards
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
Workshops, construction sites, industrial production halls — often working outdoors and on customer sites.
Entry requirements
- Completed compulsory school (Sek A or B, depending on profession). Strong school report in relevant subjects helps.
- 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 Diploma (EFZ) — a nationally recognised qualification that opens doors to higher VET (HF), the vocational baccalaureate (BM) and universities of applied sciences.
Apprentice wage
Typical monthly gross wage (CHF). Actual wages vary by sector and region.
Year 1
CHF 700 – 900/ Mt.
Year 2
CHF 950 – 1’200/ Mt.
Year 3
CHF 1’300 – 1’700/ Mt.
Future-readiness
Score 3/5Our take
Demand for artisanal meat products remains stable; adaptability to new trends and sustainability are key. Automation primarily affects butchering, customer-facing creativity remains vital.
Sources
Early contract endings in this field
Across Construction & Trades apprenticeships, roughly 25–35% of contracts are ended early, compared with about 23% nationally. Most of those apprentices continue their training elsewhere.
Further education & career
- Federal Diploma of Higher Education (BP) as Meat Specialist
- Higher Technical College (HF) as Agricultural Technician
- Vocational Baccalaureate and University of Applied Sciences (FH)
- Specializations (e.g., charcuterie, catering)
Learn more
Official sources and further information about this profession.