Business & Administration · EFZ
Inland Boatman EFZ
Operate vessels in inland shipping.
About this profession
Operate vessels in inland shipping. 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
- ›Steer and maneuver inland vessels
- ›Perform deck maintenance and care
- ›Load and unload cargo efficiently
- ›Ensure safety protocols on board
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
Offices, banks, insurers, public administration, larger companies of any sector.
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 4/5Our take
Inland shipping maintains importance for freight, requiring adaptation to evolving technologies and environmental regulations.
Sources
Early contract endings in this field
Across Business & Administration apprenticeships, roughly 12–18% 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
- Higher vocational school for navigation
- Vocational baccalaureate and university of applied sciences
- Specialization in specific vessel types
Learn more
Official sources and further information about this profession.