Job Description Template: Electrical Engineer
This template helps Swiss employers write a clear job description for an Electrical Engineer. It covers the role's core tasks, technical and soft-skill requirements, and a competitive Swiss compensation package. Adapt it to your canton, company size, and specific project needs.
An Electrical Engineer designs, develops, tests, and oversees electrical systems and components for machines, equipment, or infrastructure. In a Swiss SME context, this role often bridges design and production, working closely with mechanical teams and production staff.
A well-structured job description attracts qualified candidates and sets clear expectations. This template includes sections for Pensum (percentage of full-time), location (canton and city), language requirements, and Swiss-standard benefits. Customize each section to reflect your company's actual needs and budget.
What the Role Does
The Electrical Engineer develops circuit designs, selects components, and creates technical documentation (schematics, CAD drawings). They collaborate with product development, troubleshoot faults, and ensure compliance with Swiss and EU standards.
Day-to-day work includes dimensioning electrical systems, simulating performance, testing prototypes, and supporting manufacturing teams. In smaller firms, the role may also involve customer support or on-site commissioning.
- Design and simulate electrical circuits and power systems using CAD and simulation tools
- Create technical documentation: schematics, wiring diagrams, bill of materials
- Test prototypes and troubleshoot electrical faults; recommend design improvements
- Ensure compliance with EN, IEC, and Swiss electrical safety standards
- Collaborate with mechanical engineers and production teams on integration
- Support field commissioning and provide technical documentation to customers
Must-Have & Nice-to-Have Requirements
Must-haves: bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent apprenticeship (EFZ) plus relevant experience; proficiency with CAD software; solid knowledge of circuit design, power electronics, or control systems; fluency in German and/or French (specify which for your canton).
Nice-to-haves: experience with PLC programming, firmware basics, embedded systems, or high-voltage systems; familiarity with ISO 9001 or equivalent quality processes; certified professional qualifications (BFH, Dipl. Ing. HTB); language skills beyond your primary canton language.
- Swiss vocational diploma (EFZ Elektroinstallateur/in, Elektrotechniker/in) or HF/Bachelor in Electrical Engineering
- Minimum 2–3 years' hands-on experience in electrical design or related field
- Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., EPLAN, AutoCAD, KiCAD, Altium Designer)
- Fluent German [or French, depending on canton] (specify minimum CEFR level if required)
- Knowledge of electrical safety standards (EN 60204, IEC 60950, etc.) and Swiss regulations
- Nice-to-have: PLC programming (Siemens, Beckhoff), embedded C/C++, or project experience in medical/industrial sectors
What We Offer
Compensation should include gross annual salary (or hourly rate if applicable), 13th month bonus if standard in your industry, and vacation days (20–25 typical for SMEs). Specify Pensum (e.g., 80–100%) and whether flexible working hours or remote work are available.
Beyond pay: professional development budget, ongoing training in new technologies, modern equipment and software licenses, and a collaborative team environment. Mention any industry-specific perks (e.g., staff discounts, transport allowance, occupational pension top-ups).
- Salary CHF [range], 13th month bonus, and [X] days vacation per year
- Pensum [80–100%]; flexible working hours and [remote/hybrid] options available
- Professional development budget of CHF [amount] annually for courses and certifications
- Modern tools: latest CAD software licenses, simulation platforms, and lab equipment
- Comprehensive occupational pension (above legal minimum BVG) and group health insurance
- Collaborative team environment with flat hierarchies and direct access to management
Frequently asked questions
- Why should I mention the canton and city in the job ad?
- Swiss candidates often search by region. Naming your canton (e.g., 'Zurich', 'Bern', 'Valais') and city makes your ad discoverable and signals commitment. It also clarifies relocation expectations and any regional language requirements.
- Where do I state language requirements?
- Place language requirements in the 'Must-Have' section. Be specific: 'Fluent German (C1)' or 'Conversational French (B2) preferred'. Different cantons have different primary languages; calibrate to your team's working language and client base.
- What is 'Pensum' and why does it matter?
- Pensum is the percentage of full-time employment: 100% = full-time, 80% = four-day week, etc. Always state it clearly. Many Swiss professionals seek part-time or flexible arrangements. Clarifying Pensum upfront reduces mismatched applications and hiring friction.
General information for Swiss employers, not legal advice. Have a lawyer confirm anything with legal consequences.