If you’re a tradie in Australia or someone who prefers working with their hands, you probably already know that you don’t always need a fancy university degree to make a great living. There are heaps of jobs out there that reward your skills and experience, and the best part is, you can earn top dollar doing what you love. In this article, I’ll take you through some of the highest paying jobs in Australia that don’t require a degree, focusing on trades, technology, and other hands-on industries. Whether you’re looking to upskill or just curious about where you can take your career, there’s something here for you.
Jobs That Prioritise Skills Over Education
Many industries in Australia are more focused on what you can do rather than what’s on your resume. Trades like electrical work, plumbing, and carpentry are perfect examples of fields where your skills can make you serious money without a degree.
TradesRPL in Trades like electricians, plumbers, and builders are always in demand in Australia. Whether you’re working on a residential site or a commercial project, these jobs often pay well above average because of the skill involved. And with a bit of experience, you can easily step into supervisory roles.
TechnologyIf you’re good with computers, there are plenty of RPL IT qualifications that don’t require formal education but do require the right certifications. Fields like cybersecurity, network administration, and web development are booming, and they pay well too. These are perfect for someone who prefers problem-solving over paperwork.
Mining and Construction
Australia’s mining industry is one of the highest-paying sectors, and many construction qualifications via RPL don’t require a degree. Roles like equipment operators, supervisors, and maintenance workers offer fantastic pay, especially if you’re willing to work in remote locations.
Top 20 Highest Paying Jobs in Australia
Here’s a quick list of some of the best-paying jobs in Australia that don’t need a degree. These jobs value your hands-on experience and the ability to get the job done.
Electrician RPL
Plumber RPLConstruction Manager RPL
Carpenter RPL
Heavy Machinery Operator
Real Estate Agent
IT Support Specialist
Network Engineer
Web Developer
Commercial Pilot (requires training but not a degree)
Firefighter
Sales Manager
Personal Trainer
Mining Supervisor
Construction Foreman
Truck Driver (especially in mining)
Air Traffic Controller
Boilermaker
Automotive Technician
Fitness Instructor
Highest Paying Jobs in Sydney, Australia
Sydney’s a big city with lots of opportunities, especially for tradies. Construction RPL, plumbing, and electrical work are always in demand in Sydney, and with the housing boom, you can expect these jobs to pay even more. Here are a few high-paying jobs specific to Sydney:
Electrician: Sydney’s infrastructure and residential developments mean there’s always a need for RPL electricians.
Plumber: With new builds and renovations booming, RPL for plumbers in Sydney are earning top dollar.
Construction Manager: Managing large-scale projects in Sydney’s competitive market can pay six figures, even without a degree.
Highest Paying Engineering Jobs in Australia
Engineering might sound like a field that requires a degree, but there are actually plenty of engineering-related RPL qualifications where experience and certifications are enough. Here are some of the highest-paying engineering jobs that don’t need a formal degree:
Civil Engineering Technician
Mechanical Engineering Technician
Electrical Engineering Technician
Mining Engineer (with certification)
Draftsperson (AutoCAD expert)
Highest Paying IT Jobs in Australia
The IT sector is booming, and while many roles do require a degree, there are a number of IT-related RPL qualifications that don’t. If you’ve got a knack for computers and are willing to get a few certifications, these IT jobs could be a great fit:
Network Engineer
Cybersecurity Analyst
Web Developer
IT Support Specialist
Cloud Engineer
Trades with the Highest Pay in Australia
There’s no shortage of high-paying trade jobs in Australia, and these roles don’t require you to spend years in a classroom. With the right trade RPL qualifications and a good work ethic, you can quickly climb the ranks and start earning a top-tier salary. Here are some of the highest-paying trades:
Electrician
Plumber
Carpenter
Boilermaker
Bricklayer
HVAC Technician
Painter and Decorator
Automotive Mechanic
Conclusion
So, there you have it—Australia is packed with opportunities to earn great money without the need for a university degree. Whether you’re a seasoned tradie or just starting out, there are paths to high-paying jobs in the trades, IT, and many other industries. What matters most is your experience, skills, and willingness to get the job done right. If you’re considering
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), it’s a great way to get your existing skills recognised and step up into even higher-paying roles.
FAQs
What is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)?
RPL is a process where your existing skills and experience are formally recognised, allowing you to gain qualifications without going back to school.
Which trade pays the most in Australia?
Electricians and plumbers are often at the top of the pay scale in the trades, but construction managers and mining supervisors can also earn six figures.
Do I need a degree to get a job in IT?
Not necessarily. Many IT jobs, especially in areas like network engineering and cybersecurity, focus more on certifications and experience than formal education.
Can students find high-paying part-time jobs in Australia?
Yes, students can find part-time jobs in hospitality, retail, and even IT support that pay above minimum wage and offer flexible hours.
Is it worth getting an RPL qualification?
Absolutely! An RPL qualification can open doors to better-paying jobs and allow you to move up in your industry faster than if you had to go back to school.