Australia’s best-paid jobs that do not require a university degree have been identified, with some trade and technical professionals earning close to $170,000 a year.
New SEEK salary data shows heavy diesel fitters sit at the top of the list for high-paying jobs without a degree, with an average income of $167,210, while automotive electricians follow closely on $163,611.
Construction site managers and health care facilities managers are also among the strongest earners, each averaging $151,099, ahead of forepersons, who take home an average of $143,807.
The top 10 is completed by maintenance managers, payroll managers, electricians, licensed aircraft maintenance engineers and marketing managers, highlighting the earning power of skilled and specialist roles.
SEEK chief economist Dr Blair Chapman said the results underline how some of Australia’s most lucrative career paths are open to workers who pursue a trade or vocational route rather than a university qualification.
‘For Australians who prefer hands-on work or want to earn while they learn, these pathways can provide a route into six-figure careers, particularly in technical, trade and operational roles,’ he said.
‘Many of the highest-paying roles that don’t require a university degree still require substantial training, licences or on-the-job experience.
‘So, these are not low-skilled jobs, but roles where capability is built through formal training and practical experience rather than a university degree.’
The highest paying jobs in Australia that don’t require a university degree have been revealed, with workers in some trade and technical roles earning almost $170,000 a year (stock image)
According to data from Seek, an Automotive Electrician would earn $163,611 per year, the second most of any occupation without needing a degree (stock image)
Both construction site and health care facilities managers would take home $151,099, with a foreperson coming in fifth on $143,807 (stock image)
The figures come as advertised salaries continue to rise nationwide, with annual advertised growth reaching its highest level since February 2024.
Tasmania led the nation, posting a 5.6 per cent increase over the past year, while New South Wales recorded the slowest growth at 4.3 per cent.
Construction is among the sectors fuelling salary growth, with advertised salaries in the industry rising 5.2 per cent year-on-year. Mining, resources and energy salaries also increased faster than the national average.
Mr Chapman said six-figure salaries were largely driven by a shortage of workers with specialised skills.
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‘In trade and technical occupations, the more specialised the skill set, the harder it can be to recruit,’ he said.
‘The mining, resources and energy industries are a major driver of higher salaries in these roles because they rely heavily on skills that take time to develop, and many of the jobs are based in regional or remote areas.
‘Construction demand is also contributing to stronger salaries, especially in roles that combine trade expertise with leadership and delivery responsibility.
‘Ongoing infrastructure work and housing demand are increasing the need for experienced site managers and forepersons who can keep projects on schedule, manage subcontractors and maintain safety standards.’