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The State of Tech Salaries 2025: Part 2 - Switzerland.
Welcome back to our series on global tech salaries!
In our previous article, The State of Tech Salaries 2025: Part 1 - The United Kingdom, we explored salary trends, workforce growth, and job opportunities across the UK’s tech sector. We highlighted key roles, regional variations, and the impact of economic factors on hiring and compensation.
Now, in Part 2, we turn our focus to Switzerland—one of Europe’s leading tech hubs, and one of our leading business markets. With some of the highest salaries in the industry, a thriving innovation ecosystem, and strong demand for skilled professionals, Switzerland presents a unique landscape for tech hiring.
Let’s look into the latest salary trends, job market insights, and key differences between the Swiss and UK tech industries. In 2024, global tech salaries experienced a modest increase of 2%. As we progress through 2025, the Swiss tech industry is poised for sustainable salary growth, driven by a robust demand for skilled professionals and a dynamic economic landscape.
Swiss Tech Salaries
In Switzerland, tech salaries are among the highest in Europe, reflecting the country's strong emphasis on innovation and quality. Below is an overview of typical roles, experience levels, salary ranges, and industries:
| Role | Experience (Years) | Salary (CHF) | Typical Industries |
|---|---|---|---|
| AI/Machine Learning Engineer | 3-5 | 180,000 - 350,000 | Technology, Finance, Healthcare |
| Cloud Engineer | 3-5 | 140,000 - 200,000 | Cloud Computing, SaaS, Financial Services |
| Cybersecurity Analyst | 4-7 | 120,000 - 180,000 | Banking, Government, Healthcare |
| DevOps Engineer | 3-5 | 115,000 - 150,000 | Technology, Telecommunications, E-Commerce |
| Data Scientist | 3-5 | 110,000 - 140,000 | Finance, Retail, Marketing |
Regional Variations
Salaries in Switzerland vary by region, influenced by local industries and living costs.
- Zurich: +15% above the national average, driven by a concentration of tech firms and financial institutions.
- Geneva: +10%, influenced by finance and international organizations.
- Basel: +8%, with a focus on life sciences and pharmaceuticals.
Comparison with the UK
While both the UK and Switzerland are prominent tech hubs, Switzerland offers higher average salaries. For instance, AI/Machine Learning Engineers in Switzerland earn between CHF 180,000 and 350,000, whereas in the UK, mid-level Software Engineers earn between £50,000 and £75,000. However, it's essential to consider the higher cost of living in Swiss cities like Zurich and Geneva.
Workforce Growth and Job Opportunities
Despite economic uncertainties, Swiss companies are optimistic about workforce expansion in 2025:
- Permanent Employment: 35% of firms plan to increase permanent staff, indicating a trend toward long-term employment growth.
- Stable Staffing: 57% intend to maintain current staffing levels, reflecting stability.
In contrast, the UK tech workforce has seen a steady 1% annual growth, with approximately 2.1 million tech jobs advertised in 2023. While both countries exhibit growth, Switzerland's emphasis on permanent roles suggests a focus on long-term employment stability.
Recruitment Agency Support
Partnering with recruitment agencies offers several benefits for businesses seeking tech talent:
- Market Insights: Agencies provide real-time data on salary benchmarks, aiding in competitive compensation structuring.
- Access to Talent: With extensive networks, agencies connect businesses with top-tier candidates, including passive job seekers.
- Efficient Hiring: Streamlined recruitment processes reduce time-to-hire, ensuring critical roles are filled promptly.
Understanding the Swiss tech employment landscape is crucial for effective salary benchmarking and talent acquisition. Staying informed on market trends enables businesses to offer competitive packages, attracting and retaining top talent essential for growth.
At Source Group International, we specialize in navigating the Swiss tech hiring market. Our expertise and access to current salary trends ensure your business can secure the talent needed to thrive.
Contact our consultants to discuss how we can assist in expanding your team.
For tech professionals looking for a new role, explore career-defining roles on our Swiss job search page.