Nature & Agriculture · EBA
Animal Care Assistant EBA
Basic animal care tasks.
About this profession
Basic animal care tasks. 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
- ›Feeding and watering animals
- ›Cleaning animal enclosures and habitats
- ›Observing animal behavior
- ›Assisting with animal transfers or treatments
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
Farms, forests, gardens, food production — outdoors with the seasons.
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 600 – 800/ Mt.
Year 2
CHF 800 – 1’100/ Mt.
Future-readiness
Score 3/5Our take
Personal animal care remains essential despite automation; good prospects in specialized fields.
Sources
Early contract endings in this field
Across Nature & Agriculture apprenticeships, roughly 22–30% of contracts are ended early, compared with about 23% nationally. Most of those apprentices continue their training elsewhere.
Further education & career
- Animal Care Specialist EFZ (shortened)
- Professional examination in animal care
- Specialization (e.g. pets, wild animals)
- Additional apprenticeship in similar field
Learn more
Official sources and further information about this profession.