Design & Media · EFZ
Glassblower EFZ
Crafting hollow glassware, lighting, and decorative pieces by hand through blowing and shaping molten glass materials.
About this profession
Crafting hollow glassware, lighting, and decorative pieces by hand through blowing and shaping molten glass materials. 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
- ›Prepare glass batches and monitor melting furnaces
- ›Shape glass using blowing pipes and manual tools
- ›Refine products through grinding, polishing, and engraving
- ›Maintain precise temperature controls for cooling processes
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 (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 900 – 1’200/ Mt.
Year 3
CHF 1’200 – 1’700/ Mt.
Future-readiness
Score 3/5Our take
Authentic craftsmanship and luxury customization ensure longevity, though automation handles mass production and high energy costs pose challenges.
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
- Specialization in artistic glass
- Master crafts exams
- Design or Fine Arts degree
- Entrepreneurship / Private studio
Learn more
Official sources and further information about this profession.