Retail · EBA
Sales Assistant EBA
Advise and serve retail customers.
About this profession
Advise and serve retail customers. 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
- ›Advise and serve customers expertly
- ›Present merchandise attractively
- ›Efficiently handle cash register duties
- ›Process goods deliveries effectively
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
Shops, department stores, specialist boutiques and the related online operations.
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
Demand for skilled sales staff persists, but requires digital proficiency and adaptability to evolving sales strategies to remain competitive in the market.
Sources
Early contract endings in this field
Across Retail apprenticeships, roughly 25–32% of contracts are ended early, compared with about 23% nationally. Most of those apprentices continue their training elsewhere.
Further education & career
- Retail Specialist EFZ (shortened apprenticeship)
- Federal VET Diploma (Retail)
- Higher Vocational College (with prerequisite education)
- Sales specializations
Learn more
Official sources and further information about this profession.