Working in Switzerland

Thinking of working in Switzerland? High salaries, a strong economy, and an exceptional quality of life make it an attractive destination for expats across the world. Finding work in Switzerland takes more than just sending out applications, though – you’ll need a solid job offer, the right work permit, and, for many roles, proficiency in German, French, or Italian.

Job market in Switzerland

The Swiss job market is strong, but opportunities vary by industry. While many sectors are growing, opportunities in traditional manufacturing have slowed.

There’s a strong demand for professionals in cybersecurity, cloud computing, and AI as Switzerland continues to expand its fintech and IT sectors. Banking and financial services remain a major draw, with opportunities in risk management, compliance, and digital banking. With an ageing population, healthcare workers – especially nurses and medical specialists – are also in demand.

That said, Swiss employers generally prioritise hiring EU citizens. If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll need a job offer from an employer willing to sponsor your work permit – these are typically granted only to highly skilled professionals in specialist roles.

English is widely used in global firms, but knowing German, French, or Italian opens far more doors.

Finding a job in Switzerland

Getting a job in Switzerland takes persistence. The Swiss job market is competitive, and vacancies often attract a high volume of applications. Your best bet is a combination of strategic job hunting and strong networking.

Online job portals like Jobs.ch, LinkedIn, and Indeed Switzerland are great places to start. If you’re in tech, SwissDevJobs focuses on IT and software engineering roles, while ETH Get Hired caters to engineers and researchers.

Many jobs never make it to public listings, so networking is one of the most effective ways to get hired. Make connections through LinkedIn, attend industry events, and join professional associations such as Swiss ICT for tech professionals or the Swiss Finance Institute for banking and investment roles.

When applying, tailor your CV to Swiss standards. Keep it concise – one to two pages is ideal – and highlight your key achievements. While not mandatory, many Swiss employers expect a professional headshot. Be sure to list your language skills and work permit status clearly.

If you don’t speak German, French, or Italian, your options may be more limited outside of major multinational firms in Zurich, Geneva, and Basel. Even then, learning at least basic German or French can significantly improve your chances of securing a job.

Applying for a Visa in Switzerland

Useful links

• Jobs.ch
• Indeed Switzerland
• LinkedIn Switzerland
• SwissDevJobs
• ETH Get Hired

Work culture in Switzerland

Swiss work culture is formal, structured, and highly efficient. If you’re used to a more casual workplace, you may need time to adjust. Punctuality is non-negotiable, and arriving late to meetings or missing deadlines won’t go down well. The Swiss take planning seriously, and being organised will help you fit in.

Hierarchy matters, but decisions are rarely top-down – managers aim for team input. Your title, education, and achievements carry weight, but so does your ability to collaborate effectively.

Compared to the US or UK, the Swiss keep work and personal life separate. Don’t be surprised if colleagues are polite but reserved. Building relationships takes time, and many professionals don’t socialise much outside the office.

Swiss workplaces tend to be formal. A firm handshake is standard, and titles matter until invited to use first names. Communication is direct, and written correspondence should be clear and to the point. In business negotiations, the Swiss are meticulous and fact-driven. Expect detailed discussions and a structured process – quick deals are rare. Patience and professionalism will serve you well.

Business Culture in Switzerland