Careers in Demand in South Africa for 2025 That Don’t Require Degrees
Some of us were not fortunate enough to have funds to pursue a degree, and some had to deal with personal problems that did not award us time for such studies. Luckily, there are a number of jobs that can still award you a chance to pursue your passion and work a reputable job without a degree in South Africa. With the right training and certifications, you can get a chance to work the following in-demand jobs in South Africa without a degree in South Africa.
1. Web Developer
Why Web Developers are in Demand In South Africa
E-commerce and digital have now become the most convenient way of doing business, hence the rise in demand for web development personnel in South Africa to help them design and maintain their websites.
Certifications and Skills Needed
- Skills you need to acquire: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and basic design principles.
- Certifications: Start on web development short courses on platforms like Udemy, Coursera, or Codecademy.
- Expected Salary: Entry-level earn between R15,000 and R25,000 per month.
2. Digital Marketing Specialist
Why Digital Marketing is in DemandIn South Africa
The most effective form of marketing that reaches a larger number of clients nowadays is marketing online, and companies now need digital marketing specialists to handle their online marketing.
Skills and Certifications Needed
- Skills to Qualify: Understanding of SEO, Google Ads, and social media platforms.
- Certifications: Register and study for a certification from Google Digital Garage or HubSpot Academy.
- Expected Salary: Between R12,000 and R30,000 per month, depending on the level of experience.
3. Electrician
Why Are Electricians In Demand In South Africa?
There is a high rise in the growth of renewable energy projects in South Africa, and electricians are needed for installation and maintenance.
Certifications And Skills Needed
- Skills to Qualify: Knowledge of electrical systems and safety standards.
- Certification: Study and complete a trade apprenticeship and register with the Department of Employment and Labour.
- Expected Salary: Between R10,000 and R40,000 per month, depending on the expertise level.
4. Truck Driver
Why Are Truck Drivers In Demand In South Africa?
There is no industry that grows every day like logistics and chain supplies, and they need reliable truck drivers on a regular basis.
Certifications And Skills Needed
- Skills You Need To Acquire: You need a valid code EC driver’s license and professional driving permit (PDP) to be a truck driver.
- How to Achieve That: Register for a driving school accredited by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and complete all the programs required.
- Expected Salary: Between R8,000 and R25,000 per month.
5. Data Entry Clerk
Why Data Entry Clerks Are In Demand In South Africa
Every growing business needs clear records of everything that goes in the company, and the best personnel to accurately manage data and keep the filing up to date is a data entry clerk.
Certifications and Skills Needed
- Skills You Need to Qualify: Fast typing speed, attention to detail, accuracy, and familiarity with Microsoft Excel.
- Certification: Online courses in Microsoft Office can be an added advantage to your skills
- Expected Salary: R5,000 to R15,000 per month.
6. Sales Representative
Why Are Sales Reps In Demand In South Africa?
A skilled and passionate salesperson is an asset to every company to advertise products and drive revenue. Sales representatives are usually paid through commission according to performance.
Certifications And Skills Needed
- Skills You Need to Qualify: Excellent communication, negotiation, persuasive skills, and people skills.
- Qualifications: On-the-job training for entry-level jobs or short sales courses offered by institutions like Damelin.
- Expected Salary: Basic salary of R10,000 to R20,000 per month, plus commissions.
7. Hairdresser or Barber
Why Are Hairdressers In Demand In South Africa?
The beauty industry has always been in demand, and it grows bigger every day with the introduction of social media, with people wanting to look their best in pictures.
Qualifications Needed
- Skills You Need to Qualify: Hair cutting, braiding, styling, wig installations, and coloring techniques.
- Certifications: Attend any recognized beauty school such as Sorbet Training Academy or enroll in local workshops.
- Expected Salary: R8,000 to R20,000 per month, plus tips.
8. Call Center Agent
Why Are Call Center Agents In Demand In South Africa?
Call centers will always be needed in companies for customer enquiries, product knowledge, and anything customers may need help with regarding their accounts.
Qualifications Needed
- Skills You Need to Qualify: Strong communication skills, people skills, and basic computer literacy.
- Certifications: No certification required; basic training offered by call center companies during recruitment.
- Expected Salary: Basic Pay of R5,000 to R12,000 per month, with bonuses for performance.
9. Security Guard
Why Are They on Demand
Every operating business needs protection from criminals and anything harmful and security guards are needed in almost every business.
Certification And Skills Needed
- Skills You Need to Qualify: Situational awareness and conflict resolution.
- Where To Start: Complete training accredited by PSIRA (Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority).
- Expected Salary: R4,500 to R8,000 per month.
10. Chef
Why Are Chefs In Demand In South Africa?
Hospitality is one of the most expanding and luxurious industries, and the need for high-quality chefs is on demand in mostly restaurants and catering businesses.
Qualifications Needed
- Qualifying Skills: Culinary techniques and menu planning.
- Where to Start: Attend culinary schools like Capsicum Culinary Studio.
- Expected Salary: Between R10,000 and R25,000 per month.
11. Handyman or Artisan
Why Are Artisans In Demand In South Africa?
In every operating company or business, there is always a need for repairs or home improvement projects, hence the need for handymen.
Qualifications And Skills Needed
- Qualifying Skills: Carpentry, plumbing, and general repair expertise.
- Certification: Enroll and complete artisan courses at TVET colleges.
- Expected Salary: R8,000 to R20,000 per month.
12. Freelancer or Virtual Assistant
Why They Are On Demand
Remote working has taken the industry by storm since COVID, and companies need freelancers or virtual assistants to manage tasks that can be completed from anywhere, like scheduling, records, and email correspondence.
Qualifications Needed
- Qualifying Skills: Organization, communication, attention to detail, and tech savvy.
- Where to Get Started: Sign up to online platforms like Fiverr and Upwork.
- Expected Salary: Varies widely according to the company you work for, qualifications, and experience but can start at R5,000 per month.
13. Fitness Trainer
Why Is Fitness Training In Demand In South Africa?
A lot of people now care about weight loss, looking good, and maintaining good health and need help from professionals like health fitness trainers.
Qualifications Needed
- Qualifying Skills: Exercise science and personal training.
- Certification: Enrol in institutions like HFPA or Trifocus Fitness Academy.
- Expected Salary: R8,000 to R20,000 per month, with potential bonuses from private clients.
Conclusion
Not every job needs a degree; there are in-demand skill-based jobs that are highly in demand and pay well in South Africa. You can still explore your passion and secure jobs in industries like technology, hospitality, and sales without a degree. These roles can open doors to bigger opportunities with the right certifications and motivation.