Highest paying jobs In South Africa Without a University Degree (2025)

 Not everyone has the chance to attend university, but that doesn’t mean you can’t build a successful and well-paying career in South Africa. In 2025, there are many jobs that don’t require a degree — just the right skills, training, and dedication.

Here are the **top high-paying jobs in South Africa that don’t require a university qualification**.

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## 🛠️ 1. Electrician

**Average Salary:** R180,000 – R350,000 per year  

**Requirements:** Trade test certificate (Red Seal), apprenticeship, N1–N3 certificates

Electricians are in demand in residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. With experience, you can start your own business or contract for big companies.

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## 💻 2. IT Support Technician

**Average Salary:** R150,000 – R320,000 per year  

**Requirements:** CompTIA A+, N+, short courses or diplomas in IT

Many IT support roles don’t need a degree. What matters is your technical ability and certifications. You can support networks, troubleshoot issues, or work in help desks.

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## 🚛 3. Code 14 Truck Driver

**Average Salary:** R180,000 – R400,000 per year  

**Requirements:** Code 14 driver's license, PDP, clean driving record

Long-distance truck drivers earn well, especially in logistics and fuel transport. You need discipline, time management, and a good safety record.

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## 🔧 4. Plumber

**Average Salary:** R150,000 – R300,000 per year  

**Requirements:** Plumbing trade certificate, practical training

Good plumbers are always needed — in construction, home maintenance, and municipal work. Many go on to run successful small businesses.

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## 🏗️ 5. Construction Site Foreman

**Average Salary:** R200,000 – R500,000 per year  

**Requirements:** Experience in construction, diploma in building or related certificate

If you’ve worked your way up on building sites, you can be promoted to foreman — managing teams, safety, and materials. Leadership and organizational skills are key.

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## ✈️ 6. Cabin Crew (Flight Attendant)

**Average Salary:** R180,000 – R350,000 per year  

**Requirements:** Grade 12, cabin crew course, good health and communication skills

Working for airlines like SAA, FlySafair, or international carriers can earn you good money and travel benefits. Customer service and safety are your main duties.

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## 🧰 7. Artisan – Welder, Fitter, or Boilermaker

**Average Salary:** R180,000 – R400,000 per year  

**Requirements:** Technical training (TVET), trade test certification

Skilled artisans are needed in mining, construction, and manufacturing. These jobs are physically demanding but well-paying with experience.

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## 📦 8. Warehouse Supervisor

**Average Salary:** R160,000 – R300,000 per year  

**Requirements:** Matric, experience in logistics or warehousing

Supervisors manage stock, staff, and deliveries. Logistics companies and retail chains offer these roles to people who’ve proven their reliability and leadership on the floor.

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## 🧕 9. Real Estate Agent

**Average Salary:** Commission-based (Top agents earn R500,000+ yearly)  

**Requirements:** NQF Level 4 in Real Estate, registration with EAAB

If you’re confident, persuasive, and motivated, real estate offers huge earning potential — no degree required. You earn commission on every property you sell or rent.

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## 🚘 10. Car Sales Executive

**Average Salary:** R120,000 – R400,000 (incl. commission)  

**Requirements:** Matric, product knowledge, sales skills

Sales reps for cars, trucks, or fleet vehicles can earn big through commissions. You just need product knowledge, communication skills, and hustle.

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## 📌 Quick Summary Table

| Job | Average Salary | Requires Degree? |

|-----|----------------|------------------|

| Electrician | R180k – R350k | ❌ No |

| Truck Driver | R180k – R400k | ❌ No |

| Plumber | R150k – R300k | ❌ No |

| IT Support | R150k – R320