Health & Social · EFZ
Optometrist EFZ
Conduct eye examinations and vision tests.
About this profession
Conduct eye examinations and vision tests. Over 4 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
- ›Perform vision tests and eye examinations
- ›Fit glasses and contact lenses
- ›Detect vision deficiencies and eye diseases
- ›Advise and care for clients comprehensively
Skills you'll need
A typical week as an apprentice
Host company
3–4 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
Hospitals, nursing homes, home-care services (Spitex), social institutions, day-care centres.
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 – 1’150/ Mt.
Year 3
CHF 1’200 – 1’550/ Mt.
Year 4
CHF 1’500 – 1’950/ Mt.
Future-readiness
Score 4/5Our take
Stable demand driven by aging population and digital eye strain; adaptability to new technologies is key.
Sources
Early contract endings in this field
Across Health & Social apprenticeships, roughly 16–24% of contracts are ended early, compared with about 23% nationally. Most of those apprentices continue their training elsewhere.
Further education & career
- Vocational Baccalaureate and University of Applied Sciences
- Higher Vocational School for Optometry
- Federal VET Diploma advanced examinations
- Specializations in ocular diagnostics
Learn more
Official sources and further information about this profession.