Anyone wishing to start an apprenticeship as a plant operator must have a secondary school leaving certificate and should also meet a number of important requirements. Above all, these include the ability to concentrate and a basic technical understanding of mechanical processes and technical equipment. Anyone interested in training to become a Federal VET Diploma plant operator should also be able to work very carefully and conscientiously, have manual dexterity and the ability to work in a team, and be reliable and responsible. You should also be able to work under pressure and be prepared to work irregular hours and in shifts.

Training as a plant operator (Federal VET Diploma) takes place in an industrial company and once a week at a vocational college. The following subjects are taught at school:

• Production lines and systems
• Packaging and production
• Technology and science Environmental protection
• Health protection
• Occupational safety
• Business administration
• Quality assurance
• Hygiene

Training to become an Federal VET Diploma plant operator takes two years until the qualification procedure (final apprenticeship examination). It takes place alongside work.

It takes two years to complete the qualification process (final apprenticeship examination LAP). Lessons usually take place on Saturdays, so that work can be done on the side. The classes are made up exclusively of adults. Further information can be obtained from the providers.

Some cantons cover the costs of catch-up training to become a plant operator with a Federal Diploma of Vocational Education and Training (VET Diploma), provided that the training takes place in your canton of residence and the VET office pays your school fees. You should always clarify this in advance in individual cases.

Adults who wish to obtain the Federal Diploma of Vocational Education and Training as a Federal VET Diploma plant operator are prepared for the final examination (qualification procedure / LAP) in a special preliminary course and attend 5 lessons on Saturdays. This means that this training is a part-time course that enables those in employment to continue working full-time.