List of Most Demanded Jobs in Switzerland
Looking for a job in Switzerland? Here are the 5 of the most demanded jobs in Switzerland:
Civil engineer
Cybersecurity specialist
Cloud engineer
Financial advisors
Welders
Switzerland is one of the best places for expats who are looking for stable jobs. The Swiss economy is one of the most stable and prosperous economies in the world, and it is a member of the European Free Trade Association. In 2023, the employment rate in Switzerland showed some positive trends. In the third quarter of 2023, the total employment (number of jobs) in Switzerland rose by 1.9% compared to the same quarter a year earlier. Despite a low unemployment rate, there was a shortage of skilled workers and a lack of job opportunities to meet the demand. However, overall job satisfaction among employees remained high.
The average salary in Switzerland in 2023 is around 78,000 CHF per year according to Joinhorizons.com. The job opportunities for English speakers in Switzerland are quite substantial, with approximately 8,413 curated job offers for English speakers available as of December 2023.
As an expat who has worked abroad, I know how challenging it can be to find a job in a foreign country. Switzerland is a great place to work, but it also has a competitive and regulated job market. You need to have the right skills, qualifications, and language abilities to stand out from the crowd and get the attention of Swiss employers. You also need to be aware of the visa requirements, the work culture, and the cost of living. Finding a job in Switzerland is not impossible, but it requires patience, persistence, and preparation.
This is why we have created this list of the most demanded jobs in Switzerland. In this blog post, we will provide detailed insights into the Swiss job market and work culture.
Curious what are the most common jobs in Switzerland?
Jobs in Switzerland for English-Speaking Job Seekers
There are 8,413 English-speaking job offers available for professionals looking for opportunities in Switzerland. The labor market in Switzerland is known for its flexibility, low incidental wage costs, and high quality of life, making it an attractive destination for expat workers.
The industry and service sectors in Switzerland posted an overall year-on-year increase of 2.2% in the second quarter of 2023, with a total of 5.432 million jobs filled. The top three professions experiencing labor shortages in Switzerland are healthcare workers, teachers, and natural sciences, mathematics, and engineering professions.
On the other hand, the top three professions with surplus labor supply are managers, administrative staff, and auxiliary personnel in agriculture, forestry, and fishing. The job market in Switzerland is dynamic and offers diverse opportunities for English-speaking job seekers across various sectors, such as computer science and teaching jobs. To give you more idea, here are the high demand or sought after jobs in Switzerland for expats in this country:
1. Civil Engineer
Civil engineering is a highly sought-after profession in Switzerland, with 175 open civil engineering jobs and 79 civil engineer jobs as of December 2023. A Civil Engineer is responsible for designing, planning, and supervising the construction of various types of infrastructure projects, such as buildings, bridges, roads, and dams. They play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and functionality of these structures.
Some of the skills required for this job include:
Civil engineers must be able to analyze complex data and develop solutions to problems.
Civil engineers must communicate effectively with clients, contractors, and other professionals.
Civil engineers must be able to lead teams of professionals and manage projects from start to finish.
Civil engineers must use advanced mathematical concepts to solve problems.
Civil engineers must be able to identify problems and develop solutions to them.
Civil engineers must be proficient in using computer-aided design (CAD) software and other technical tools.
The average salary for highly skilled civil engineers in Switzerland ranges from CHF 81,969 to CHF 152,284. The demand for civil engineers is mostly unaffected by the economy, as civil engineers are always needed, and many contracts are long-term.
Switzerland’s flourishing infrastructure and development projects have led to a high demand for civil engineering jobs in 2023. As a civil engineer, you will be responsible for designing, building, and maintaining infrastructure such as roads, bridges, tunnels, and buildings. You will also be involved in project management, ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget.
If you are interested in applying for civil engineering jobs in Switzerland, you can check out companies hiring on job portals such as jobs.ch. You can also submit job applications to companies directly. Some companies may offer up to three months of training for new hires before they start working as a project manager.
2. Cybersecurity Specialist
A Cybersecurity Specialist is responsible for protecting computer systems from external threats and data loss. They identify risks for data theft and loss, develop solutions for addressing vulnerabilities, and deploy countermeasures to respond when cyber attacks occur.
Some of the skills required for this job are the following:
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Knowledge of cybersecurity best practices and tools.
Cybersecurity specialists should also be able to communicate technical information to non-technical individuals.
The demand for cybersecurity specialists in Switzerland is high, leading to competitive salaries in the field. Cyber Security Engineers in Switzerland can earn between 107,500 CHF and 140,000 CHF per year, with an average salary of 121,600 CHF. The country’s tech industry boom and the increasing reliance on digital platforms have contributed to the growing need for cybersecurity experts, with the number of cybersecurity job postings having increased by over 22% in the past year alone1.
The IT services market in Switzerland is projected to grow at an annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.59% between 2023 and 2028, resulting in a market volume of US$16.92 billion by 2028, according to statista.com.
Switzerland is a small country with a great demand for cybersecurity specialists. Some potential employers in Switzerland include Deloitte, Swiss Cyber Institute, and many more.
If you are a non-Swiss citizen, you will need a work permit and a residence permit to work in Switzerland. Fluency in English is a must, and knowledge of other languages such as German and French is a plus.
3. Cloud Engineer
A Cloud Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining cloud-based systems and infrastructure. They work with cloud providers such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform to ensure that cloud-based systems are secure, scalable, and reliable.
Some of the skills required for this job are the following:
Knowledge of cloud computing platforms,
Software development skills,
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Fluency in English is a must, and knowledge of other languages such as German and French is a plus.
The average salary for a Cloud Engineer in Switzerland is CHF 108,600 per year, with the median salary being CHF 107,500 per year. The AWS Europe (Zurich) Region is estimated to support an average of over 2,500 full-time jobs annually at external businesses in Switzerland from 2022-2036, including jobs in sectors such as non-residential construction, software development, facilities maintenance, and more.
Cloud Engineer jobs are in high demand in Switzerland due to the country’s reputation as a global leader in various sectors, such as life sciences, pharmaceuticals, finance, and manufacturing, which consistently attract foreign investments. The Adecco Swiss Job Market index also increased by 7% in the third quarter of 2023, driven particularly by the strength of the mechanical, electrical, and metallurgical (MEM) industries sector.
If you are a non-Swiss citizen, you will need a work permit and a residence permit to work in Switzerland. Self-employed individuals must also obtain a work permit.
4. Financial Advisors
A Financial Advisor/Wealth Manager is responsible for providing financial advice to clients, including investment advice, retirement planning, and estate planning. They help clients make informed decisions about their finances and investments, and work to ensure that their clients’ financial goals are met.
Some of the skills required for this job are the following:
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Knowledge of financial products and markets.
Good communication skills. Fluency in English is a must, and knowledge of other languages such as German and French.
As Switzerland is home to more than 355 fintech companies, with 37% of them located in Zurich, the country’s financial sector is experiencing significant growth. According to the search results, the average salary for a financial advisor in Switzerland in 2023 is CHF 62,201 per year to CHF 103,437 per year.
There are many companies hiring financial advisors and wealth managers in Switzerland, including Credit Suisse, UBS, and Julius Baer.
5. Welders
Welders are in demand in Switzerland due to the booming construction industry. The construction market size in Switzerland was $93.6 billion in 2022 and is projected to achieve an AAGR of more than 1% during 2024-2027. Welders are responsible for joining metal parts together using various welding techniques. They work in a variety of industries, including construction, manufacturing, and repair.
The average salary for welders in Switzerland ranges from CHF 66,376 to CHF 78,534 per year, with an equivalent hourly rate of CHF 32 to CHF 38.
Some of the skills required for a welding job include:
Welders must be able to follow instructions and specifications closely to ensure that their work meets the required standards.
Welding can be a physically demanding job, requiring welders to stand for long periods and work in awkward positions.
Welders must have good hand-eye coordination and be able to use welding tools and equipment with precision.
Welders must be able to identify problems with welding equipment and troubleshoot issues as they arise.
If you’re looking for welding jobs in Switzerland, you can search for companies hiring welders on job portals such as Indeed or Jooble. You can also check out top companies such as GetLeedz, JOIN Solutions AG, and Bruker Switzerland AG. Additionally, you can explore state schools and larger companies that offer more jobs in the welding industry.
Read: What is a good salary in Switzerland?
What Is A Good Salary in Switzerland? [+Average Salaries 2023]
Expats Requirements for Working in Switzerland
Switzerland is a popular destination for expats who want to enjoy a high quality of life, a stable economy, and a multicultural environment. However, working in Switzerland is not easy, as there are strict rules and regulations for foreign workers. In this post, we will explore the main requirements for expats who want to work in Switzerland, such as work visas, language skills, and qualifications.
Work visas
A work permit is typically necessary for individuals from other countries seeking employment in Switzerland. The specific process for acquiring such a permit varies based on the applicant’s nationality and the nature of the job. Switzerland imposes limitations on the number of foreign workers through quotas, and usually, only individuals meeting certain criteria or working in industries facing a labor shortage are granted a Swiss work visa.
The main types of work visas are the following:
L permit: a short-term residence permit valid for up to one year, renewable under certain conditions
B permit: a long-term residence permit valid for up to five years, renewable and subject to quotas
G permit: a cross-border permit for foreign nationals who live in a neighboring country and commute to Switzerland for work
C permit: a permanent residence permit that allows unlimited access to the Swiss labor market, granted after 10 years of continuous residence (five years for US and Canadian citizens)
To apply for a work visa, you need to have a valid job offer from an employer in Switzerland, who will apply for a residence permit on your behalf at the cantonal migration office. You will also need to apply for a work visa at the Swiss embassy or consulate in your home country, and provide the necessary documents, such as the following:
Passport
Photos
CV
Diplomas
Certificates, etc.
The processing time and cost vary depending on the type of visa and the canton of residence.
Language requirements
Knowledge of a national language (German, French, Italian, or Romansh) is a basic requirement for the successful integration into working and social life in Switzerland. All persons applying for family reunification, a residence or permanent residence permit, or regular or early naturalization must prove their language skills. The required language level, which is based on a phased model and differentiates between oral and written proficiency, is a minimum requirement. Further information can be obtained from the cantonal migration authorities.
The main recognized language certificates are listed below:
Goethe-Zertifikat for German
DELF/DALF for French
CELI/CILS for Italian
SVEB for Romansh
Language requirements vary according to the purpose and duration of your stay and the canton in which you are living. For example, to apply for Swiss citizenship, you need to have at least a B1 level of oral proficiency and an A2 level of written proficiency, although some cantons require higher levels. To study at a Swiss university, you need at least level C1 in the language of instruction. To work in Switzerland, you need at least an A2 level in the language of the region where you will be working, although some employers may require higher levels or additional languages.
Can you work in Switzerland without knowing other languages? Check our article: Getting a Job in Switzerland Without Speaking German
Qualifications
To work in Switzerland, you must have the necessary qualifications for your profession and, in some cases, have them recognized by Swiss authorities. This is particularly important for regulated professions such as health, education, law, and engineering. You can check if your profession is regulated and the recognition procedure on the website of the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI).
If your profession is not regulated, you do not need to have your qualifications recognized, but you may still need to provide proof of your education and work experience to your employer or the cantonal migration office. You can also use the online tool Qualifications Passport to create a standardized document that summarizes your skills and competencies.
To work as a project manager in Switzerland, you must have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in management or a related field, along with relevant work experience. Certifications such as PMP, Prince2 or ITIL may also be required, as well as a proven track record of delivering projects on time and within budget. Project manager positions are highly sought after in Switzerland, particularly in the IT, banking, pharmaceutical, and food retail industries. Top companies hiring project managers in Switzerland include Google, Ergon Informatik, iTrust, Open Systems, and Persistent Systems.
Personal Anecdotes and Tips from Expats Regarding The Requirement Process
Sure, here are some personal anecdotes and advice from expats who have worked in Switzerland:
“When I first started working in Switzerland, I was taken aback by the punctuality and efficiency of the Swiss. I quickly learned that arriving late to a meeting or being unprepared was seen as disrespectful. I made it a point to always arrive early and confirm appointments ahead of time. It was a bit of a culture shock at first, but I soon appreciated the value of Swiss punctuality.”
“Working in Switzerland was a lot of work, but also a lot of rewards. The standard working week was between 40 and 48 hours, although, in my field of banking, we often broke the rules and worked as much as 70 hours a week. It was intense, but the high salaries made it worthwhile. I also enjoyed the unique aspects of the Swiss working environment, like the 9 am and 4 pm snack breaks – Znüni and Zvieri – and the generous breaks over lunch, which could last up to two hours.”
“Living in Switzerland was like living inside a very pleasant bubble. The high quality of life was balanced by the equally high cost of living. But the high levels of disposable income, thanks to high salaries, allowed me to indulge in all the things to do in Switzerland. The excellent public services like world-beating healthcare and public transport made life very comfortable.”
Remember, these are just personal experiences and may not reflect everyone’s experience working in Switzerland. It’s always a good idea to do your own research and prepare yourself for the cultural differences you might encounter.
Swiss Work Culture and Environment
Switzerland is a country that values efficiency, quality, and innovation. Its work culture reflects these values, as well as a respect for diversity, individuality, and autonomy. Swiss workers enjoy a high standard of living, a strong social security system, and a flexible labor market. However, they also face challenges such as high costs of living, increasing competition, and changing regulations.
One of the main features of Swiss work culture is the importance of punctuality. Being on time is a sign of professionalism, reliability, and respect. Swiss workers are expected to plan ahead, meet deadlines, and deliver results. They are also expected to communicate clearly, directly, and politely, avoiding ambiguity and conflict. Swiss workers tend to be pragmatic, rational, and analytical, preferring facts and figures over emotions and opinions.
Another characteristic of Swiss work culture is the respect for individuality and autonomy. Swiss workers are given a lot of freedom and responsibility to manage their own work, as long as they follow the rules and standards. They are encouraged to be creative, innovative, and entrepreneurial, as well as to pursue their personal interests and hobbies. Swiss workers value their privacy and personal space, and do not like to mix their work and private lives.
Swiss work culture also reflects the diversity of the country, which has four official languages (German, French, Italian, and Romansh) and 26 cantons, each with its own laws and customs. Swiss workers are tolerant and respectful of different cultures, languages, and backgrounds, and are open to learning from others. However, they also have a strong sense of identity and loyalty to their region and nation, and may have different preferences and expectations depending on their linguistic and cultural background.
Swiss labor laws are designed to protect the rights and interests of both employers and employees, as well as to promote social harmony and economic stability. Some of the main aspects of Swiss labor laws are:
Employment contracts: Employment contracts in Switzerland can be standard, collective, or individual, and can be written, oral, or implied. They specify the terms and conditions of the employment relationship, such as the duration, salary, working hours, duties, and benefits. Employment contracts can be terminated by mutual agreement, by notice, by expiration, or by dismissal.
Wages and salary: Wages and salary in Switzerland are determined by the market, the industry, the qualification, and the performance of the worker. There is no national minimum wage, but some collective agreements or cantonal laws may set minimum wages for certain sectors or occupations. Wages and salary are usually paid monthly, and are subject to social security and tax deductions.
Work hours: Work hours in Switzerland are regulated by the Labor Act, which sets the maximum number of working hours per week at 45 for most employees and 50 for some others. The average full-time employee in Switzerland works 41 hours per week. Overtime work is compensated by extra pay or time off. Workers are entitled to at least one day off per week, and at least four weeks of paid annual leave.
Paid and unpaid leave: Paid and unpaid leave in Switzerland include holiday pay, maternity/paternity pay, sick pay, and other forms of paid leave, such as military service, jury duty, or education. Unpaid leave includes parental leave, which allows parents to take up to 14 weeks of unpaid leave per child, and other forms of unpaid leave, such as personal or family reasons, which are subject to the employer’s approval.
Social security and tax: Social security and tax in Switzerland are based on the principle of solidarity, which means that everyone contributes according to their income and receives benefits according to their needs. Social security covers health insurance, old-age and survivors’ insurance, disability insurance, unemployment insurance, family allowances, and accident insurance. Tax includes federal, cantonal, and municipal taxes, which vary depending on the location, income, and wealth of the taxpayer.
Protection from discrimination: Protection from discrimination at work in Switzerland is guaranteed by the Federal Constitution, the Gender Equality Act, and the Code of Obligations, which prohibit discrimination on the grounds of sex, race, age, disability, religion, political opinion, or any other personal characteristic. Workers who experience discrimination can file a complaint with the employer, the labor inspectorate, the equality office, or the court, and seek compensation or other remedies.
Joining a union: Joining a union in Switzerland is a right and a choice of the worker, who can freely join or leave a union without any consequences. Unions represent the interests and rights of workers, and negotiate collective agreements with employers or employer associations. Unions also provide advice, support, and legal assistance to their members, and participate in social dialogue and political action. About 20% of Swiss workers are unionized, which is relatively low compared to other European countries.
Health and safety: Health and safety at work in Switzerland are regulated by the Labor Act, the Accident Insurance Act, and other laws and regulations, which aim to prevent accidents, injuries, and illnesses at work, and to promote the well-being and health of workers. Employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthy work environment, and workers are responsible for complying with the rules and reporting any hazards or incidents. Workers who suffer from work-related accidents or illnesses are covered by accident insurance, which provides medical care, income replacement, and disability benefits.
Expat Experiences in the Swiss Job Market
“I landed a job at one of the top companies in Switzerland. The company culture is fantastic, and the work-life balance is unlike anything I’ve experienced before. However, the language skills required are quite high, which was a challenge for me.”
“As a software developer, I found numerous vacancies in Switzerland. The demand for software developers is high, and the pay is competitive. However, the cost of living is also quite high, which was a bit of a shock.”
“I moved to Switzerland for employment opportunities. The job market is robust, and there are many opportunities for career growth. However, integrating into the local culture has been a bit challenging.”
“Working in Switzerland has been a mixed bag for me. While the company I work for is great, and the job is rewarding, I’ve found the work culture to be quite formal and rigid compared to what I’m used to.”
“Switzerland has a strong job market, and I was able to find employment relatively quickly. However, the high level of competition for jobs can be stressful, and the expectations are quite high.”
Speaking from my experience as an expat, working in Switzerland has been a journey filled with both challenges and rewards. The job market is competitive, but the opportunities are abundant, especially if you’re in a high-demand profession like a project manager or software developer.
Before I moved, I did extensive research on the jobs in Switzerland. I found that knowing the in-demand jobs before applying is crucial. It not only helps you understand the market better but also gives you a competitive edge. For instance, while there are opportunities for English teachers, the demand is significantly higher for roles in IT and finance.
Working for one of the top companies in Switzerland has been a rewarding experience. The work culture is professional, and there’s a strong emphasis on work-life balance. However, it’s worth noting that the work environment can be quite formal, and expectations are high.
Having doubts about staying in Switzerland? Check our article: Germany vs Switzerland: Where Life Is Better?
Final Thoughts About Jobs in Switzerland
In this blog post, we have covered the most demanded jobs in Switzerland for 2023, based on the latest data from Joinhorizons.com and Englishjobsearch.ch. We have also provided detailed insights into the Swiss job market, living standards, and work culture, as well as the requirements and experiences of working in Switzerland as an expat.
We hope that this blog post has given you a clear idea of the opportunities and challenges that await you if you decide to work in Switzerland. Switzerland is a great country to work in, especially if you are in a high-demand profession such as civil engineering, cybersecurity, or cloud engineering. However, you also need to be prepared for the competition, the cost of living, and the cultural differences that you may encounter.
If you are interested in finding out more about the jobs in Switzerland, you can click on the links throughout the article to know more about the specific sectors, companies, and job portals that we have mentioned. You can also subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest updates on the Swiss job market and the best tips on how to land your dream job in Switzerland.
