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Construction & Trades · EBA

Painter Practitioner EBA

Simple painting work.

About this profession

Simple painting work. 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

  • ›Prepare and clean surfaces
  • ›Paint walls and ceilings
  • ›Treat wood and metal parts
  • ›Clean and maintain work materials

Skills you'll need

Manual dexterityCareful workTeam playerNo fear of heightsColor sensePrecise work

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. 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 700 – 900/ Mt.

Year 2

CHF 900 – 1’200/ Mt.

Future-readiness

Score 3/5
SolidSolid
Demand trend3/5
Adaptability3/5
Automation risk3/5

Our take

The demand for painters remains stable; automation poses low risk for personalized work, but continuous adaptability to new materials is essential.

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

  • Painter EFZ (shortened apprenticeship)
  • Specialization (e.g., decoration)
  • Further training in surface technology
  • Management role in painting company

Learn more

Official sources and further information about this profession.