10 High Paying Jobs You Won’t Need A Degree For

Think you need a university degree to earn a great income? Think again. While a degree can be helpful, it’s no longer the only pathway to career success in Australia. Many high-paying roles now value practical experience, technical skills, and vocational qualifications over academic credentials.

So, whether you’re a school leaver, career changer, or simply not keen on years of uni debt, here are 10 top-paying jobs you can pursue—without needing a bachelor’s degree.

1. Construction Manager

Construction managers oversee entire building projects, coordinating timelines, budgets, contractors and compliance. This role demands strong leadership, problem-solving and communication skills.

Formal qualifications aren’t required, but most professionals start as tradespeople and progress through on-the-job experience, eventually completing a Diploma in Construction Management.

Suggested course: Diploma of Building and Construction (Building)

Salary range: $90k–$280k (SEEK average: $123,504)

2. Commercial Pilot

Pilots don’t need a degree—but they do need a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), which requires around 200 flight hours, exams, and training through a CASA-certified flight school. Senior airline pilots must then progress to an Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL).

This career offers significant earnings and global travel perks—though the training is intensive and regulated.

Governing body: Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA)

Salary range: $80k–$285k

3. Crane, Hoist and Lift Operators

Operating cranes requires high-risk work licences, technical training, and a strong understanding of mechanical systems and safety protocols. It’s physically demanding but well-paid and always in demand across infrastructure, mining and construction.

Most start with a Certificate III and complete employer-sponsored training or an apprenticeship.

Salary range: $60k–$177k (SEEK avg: $104k)

Useful info: training.gov.au

4. Mining and Energy Industry Workers

Not all mining jobs require a degree—roles such as heavy equipment operators, drillers, mechanics and underground miners rely more on experience, physical fitness and VET training. FIFO (fly-in fly-out) jobs often include accommodation and extra benefits.

While mining can be tough, the pay reflects the commitment.

Suggested courses: Certificate II–IV in Resources and Infrastructure (various)

Salary range: $80k–$300k+

5. Business Managers

You don’t need a degree to climb the corporate ladder. Many business owners, retail managers and operations leaders progress through hands-on roles and leadership experience. The most successful managers often have VET credentials and a strong grasp of people and project management.

Suggested course: Certificate IV in Leadership and Management (BSB40520)

Salary range: $60k–$300k+

6. Power Plant and Gas Operators

Working in oil, gas or energy supply operations can be financially rewarding. Operators monitor complex systems, ensure safety compliance, and respond to system faults. These roles require mechanical aptitude and on-site technical training—typically via a Certificate III or IV.

Suggested course: Certificate IV in Engineering or Process Plant Operations

Salary range: $75k–$120k

7. ICT Support and Tech Professionals

The tech industry is filled with high-paying roles that don’t require a degree. Jobs like IT support specialist, network technician, cybersecurity analyst or software tester are often secured via certifications (e.g., CompTIA, Cisco) and VET qualifications.

Experience, portfolios, and skill-based testing usually matter more than formal education.

Suggested course: Advanced Diploma of Information Technology

Salary range: $60k–$200k+ depending on specialisation

8. WHS (Work Health & Safety) Coordinator

As workplaces grow more complex, WHS professionals are in demand to maintain safety protocols, train staff and manage compliance. While some advanced roles may require tertiary study, many WHS coordinators and officers start with a Certificate IV and work up.

Suggested course: Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety (BSB41419)

Salary range: $60k–$150k+ depending on industry and location

9. Entrepreneur or Start-Up Founder

No degree? No problem—just bring your ideas, resilience, and hustle. Entrepreneurs build products, services, or solutions, often starting solo or with a small team. Success stories like Atlassian and Canva prove that practical execution beats theory.

Starting a business doesn’t guarantee a paycheck—but with the right support and skills, it could become something big.

Suggested course: Diploma of Business

Salary range: Highly variable ($0 to multi-million $)

→ Read: How to Start a Start-Up

10. Content Creators, Athletes and Artists (aka ‘Megastars’)

This category is for the outliers—the elite athletes, authors, YouTubers and musicians who make a living from talent, creativity and audience reach. While it’s a high-risk, no-guarantees pathway, for a lucky few, it’s highly lucrative.

Platforms like Spotify, TikTok, YouTube and Substack have opened up new avenues to monetise creativity without traditional gatekeepers.

Suggested course: Diploma in Creative Industries or Media

Salary range: $0 to $170M+ (Taylor Swift reportedly earned US$170M in 2016)

Skills, Not Just Degrees, Matter

The Australian job market is evolving. Employers are increasingly hiring for capability, attitude and practical experience—not just academic transcripts. With hundreds of VET and short courses available, you can upskill quickly and start earning sooner.

Explore more:

• Tips to Boost Your Job Search
• Browse Courses by Industry
• What Career Suits Me?