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Construction & Trades · EBA

Structural Carpenter Practitioner EBA

Simple work in timber construction.

About this profession

Simple work in timber construction. 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

  • ›Process and assemble wood elements
  • ›Erect and dismantle scaffolding
  • ›Read and interpret plans
  • ›Transport and store materials

Skills you'll need

Manual dexterityPhysically fitTeam playerConscientiousNo fear of heights

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 4/5
StrongHighly future-proof
Demand trend4/5
Adaptability4/5
Automation risk2/5

Our take

Demand remains stable; automation affects the construction industry, requiring adaptability and practical skills.

Sources

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

  • Carpenter EFZ
  • Specializations in timber construction
  • Federal Diploma of Higher Education in Timber
  • Higher technical college in wood technology

Learn more

Official sources and further information about this profession.