Wealth

Most in-demand jobs that don’t need a degree – paying up to R40,000 a month

Caitlyn Hilliard-Lomas

 ·27 Apr 2026

Not all high-paying jobs in South Africa require a degree. In reality, some individuals in these roles can earn between R14,000 and R40,000 each month.

A variety of factors contribute to many South Africans not pursuing university education, including financial constraints, insufficient academic performance, or disinterest in degree-required careers.

Additionally, the job market is projected to change in 2026, with more opportunities likely to open up for those without formal higher education.

According to Pnet’s latest Job Market Trends Report, there has been an increase in demand for workers in the following departments:

1. Purchasing & Procurement (Finance)
2. Cost & Management Accounting (Finance)
3. Admin Clerk (Admin, Office & Support)
4. Representative / Sales Consulting (Sales)
5. Health, Safety & Environment (Admin, Office & Support)

“There is strong demand across a range of roles that do not require a formal tertiary education, particularly in sales, service, administrative and operations positions,” said Pnet Head of Data Anja Bates.

“Businesses often prioritise social skills, reliability and practical know-how over degrees for these roles.”

Pnet’s latest records indicated a 9% decrease in vacancy advertising in February 2026, yet it remained 2% higher than a year ago.

The records also highlight that candidate database searches by recruiters increased significantly by 14% month-on-month; however, they are still 20% lower year-on-year.

Hiring activity decreased in February, dropping 1% month-on-month and 5% year-on-year.

Candidate database searches are common practices among recruiters and hiring professionals, allowing them to search for and headhunt suitable candidates through databases like Pnet’s CV database, similar to a simple Google search.

“Sector-specific hiring activity trends can provide valuable insights into the local job market and South African economy,” said Pnet in its latest report.

“Stable and increasing recruitment activity indicates confidence in the local economy and business growth.”

A sector that is demonstrating a yearly increase in demand, which may not require a degree, is Sales.

Pnet said that despite a month-on-month decrease in hiring for Sales professionals from January to February 2026, demand for sales professionals remains relatively high, with a 26% year-on-year growth.

“Meanwhile, roles such as Account Manager and Sales Consultant open the possibility to increase your earnings well beyond your base salary via commissions and performance-based incentives,” said Bates.

Another sector demonstrating growth, that may not require a formal degree, is the building and construction industry, with a year-on-year growth of 26%.

Top in-demand jobs which typically require low experience & low education levels

Top in-demand jobs which typically require low experience & little education levels (but no degree)

“These positions are in consistent demand because they are the engine room of the organisation and offer accessible entry points into the job market,” said Bates.

“Some of these roles may offer a pathway to middle management positions, allowing you to advance your career and progressively improve your earning power.”

Bates said that competition is high for the desirable jobs that do not require a degree, therefore making it essential for applicants to craft their CV and online profiles to showcase their experience, achievements, references and evidence of their reliability and initiative.

She said that taking short courses or certifications that demonstrate a commitment to building practical, job-ready skills could help applicants stand out to recruiters.