Should I specify Pensum and salary in the job ad?

Yes. Swiss candidates expect transparent Pensum percentage and salary range upfront. Omitting these details reduces applications. Include gross annual salary (e.g. CHF 72'000 for 100%) and note if the 13. Monatslohn is included.

Which qualifications must I require, and which are nice-to-have?

HES diploma (or recognised equivalent) and cantonal registration are mandatory. Specialisations, advanced techniques, and software experience are nice-to-have. Be strict on mandatory items only; nice-to-have opens the talent pool.

Where do I list language requirements?

In the Requirements section. If your canton is German-speaking, state 'fluent German (written and spoken)' as a must-have. English is often nice-to-have in tourist or international regions. Always name the specific language and level expected.

Job Description Template: Physiotherapist

This template helps Swiss employers recruit physiotherapists. It covers clinical responsibilities, patient care, required qualifications (HES diploma or equivalent), must-have and nice-to-have skills, and a practical benefits section. Adapt the Pensum percentage, canton, and salary range to your practice's needs.

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A physiotherapist (Physiotherapeutin/Physiotherapeut) in Switzerland requires an HES diploma and professional registration with the cantonal health authority. This template outlines role scope, working conditions, and compensation to attract qualified candidates.

Use this template to define your position clearly. Update the canton name, Pensum percentage (typically 60–100%), salary range in CHF, and specific practice focus (sports, geriatric, neurological) to match your facility.

The Role and Responsibilities

The physiotherapist conducts patient assessments, designs and implements treatment plans, and documents progress. Work includes hands-on therapy, exercise instruction, and patient education. You'll collaborate with doctors, other therapists, and practice staff to deliver coordinated care.

Daily tasks involve one-on-one sessions, treatment planning, equipment use, and maintaining medical records. Some roles include home visits, workplace ergonomics, or sports injury management. Scope depends on your practice type and specialisation.

Conduct functional assessments and physiotherapy diagnoses
Plan and deliver individual and group treatments
Document patient progress and adjust protocols as needed
Educate patients on exercises, posture, and injury prevention
Collaborate with physicians, specialists, and interdisciplinary teams
Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with cantonal regulations

Must-Have and Nice-to-Have Requirements

All candidates must hold an HES (or equivalent) physiotherapy diploma recognised in Switzerland, or have foreign qualifications recognised by the canton. Professional liability insurance and current cantonal registration are non-negotiable. Language depends on your canton: list German, French, or Italian as essential.

Nice-to-have skills include specialisations (sports medicine, paediatrics, neurology), experience with specific techniques (manual therapy, acupuncture), or familiarity with your practice's software. Prior experience in your practice type accelerates productivity.

HES diploma in physiotherapy or recognised equivalent (mandatory)
Cantonal registration and professional liability insurance
Fluency in [German/French/Italian/English] (specify for your region)
Clinical experience in [your practice focus: general, sports, geriatric, neurological, etc.]
Strong communication and patient-centred care mindset
Nice-to-have: advanced technique certifications, EMR system experience, multilingual abilities

What We Offer

Specify your Pensum percentage (e.g. 80–100%), salary range (e.g. CHF 65'000–80'000 gross annually for full-time, adjusted for Pensum), and whether this includes the 13. Monatslohn (13th month salary—standard in many Swiss contracts).

Outline benefits honestly: health insurance subsidy, continuing education budget, flexible scheduling if applicable, team environment, and equipment access. Note whether you offer team events, parking, or public transport passes. Transparency on working conditions attracts better fits.

Pensum: [60–100%] (specify exact percentage and flexibility options)
Gross annual salary: CHF [X–Y], including 13. Monatslohn (if applicable)
Health insurance contribution: [your percentage or fixed amount]
Continuing education budget: CHF [amount] annually (if offered)
Working hours: [your schedule, e.g. Monday–Friday, 08:00–17:30, or flexible model]
Additional benefits: [parking, public transport subsidy, team events, flexible hours, home-office options if relevant]

Frequently asked questions

Should I specify Pensum and salary in the job ad?: Yes. Swiss candidates expect transparent Pensum percentage and salary range upfront. Omitting these details reduces applications. Include gross annual salary (e.g. CHF 72'000 for 100%) and note if the 13. Monatslohn is included.
Which qualifications must I require, and which are nice-to-have?: HES diploma (or recognised equivalent) and cantonal registration are mandatory. Specialisations, advanced techniques, and software experience are nice-to-have. Be strict on mandatory items only; nice-to-have opens the talent pool.
Where do I list language requirements?: In the Requirements section. If your canton is German-speaking, state 'fluent German (written and spoken)' as a must-have. English is often nice-to-have in tourist or international regions. Always name the specific language and level expected.

General information for Swiss employers, not legal advice. Have a lawyer confirm anything with legal consequences.