In South Africa, skilled trades have become vital components of the workforce. As the economy continues to evolve, these careers remain in high demand, offering sustainable job opportunities across industries. For young professionals seeking stable and rewarding careers or individuals considering a career change, skilled trades provide an excellent path. Plus, the growing demand for these roles means job security and potential for growth!
In this article, we’ll explore 15 skilled trades that are in high demand in South Africa today, including their salary ranges, qualifications required, and why they’re so critical to the South African economy.
Table of Contents
1. Electrician
Hailing as the number one skilled trade, an electrician installs, maintains, and repairs electrical systems in homes, businesses and industrial facilities. With the demand for renewable energy growing in South Africa, electricians are needed for everything from basic wiring to installing solar panels.
Electrician Qualifications:
- National Certificate (Vocational) in Electrical Infrastructure Construction
- Trade Test Certificate
- Apprenticeship experience
Electrician Salary:
- Entry-Level: +-R148,500 per annum
- Experienced: +-R320,100 per annum
Why Electricians Are In Demand:
With the constant need for electricity, South Africa’s renewable energy initiatives, and the shift towards smart homes and automation, electricians remain highly sought after.
2. Plumber
One of the most valued skilled trades is a plumber, who is tasked with installing and repairing water supply systems, drainage, and sanitation systems—playing a crucial role in maintaining public health and safety.
Plumber Qualifications:
- National Certificate (Plumbing)
- Apprenticeship or practical experience
- Trade Test Certificate
Plumber Salary:
- Entry-Level: R+-92,000 per annum
- Experienced: +-R200,000 per annum
Why Plumbers Are In Demand:
Due to rapid urbanisation and the ongoing demand for infrastructure development in South Africa, plumbers are needed for both new installations and the maintenance of existing systems.
3. Carpenter
A carpenter constructs, repairs, and instals wooden structures. From cabinetry and furniture making to building frameworks, carpenters are vital for residential and commercial projects.
Carpenter Qualifications:
- National Certificate in Carpentry
- Apprenticeship or practical training
- Trade Test Certificate
Carpenter Salary:
- Entry-Level: +-R48,000 per annum
- Experienced: +-R209,500 per annum
Why Carpenters Are In Demand:
The construction boom and ongoing housing developments mean that carpenters are continuously in demand across South Africa.
4. Welder
A welder joins metals using specialised equipment, making them essential in industries like construction, automotive manufacturing, and shipbuilding.
Welder Qualifications:
- National Certificate in Welding
- Trade Test Certificate
- Apprenticeship experience
Welder Salary:
- Average Salary: +-R213,000 per annum
Why Welders Are In Demand:
Industrial growth in sectors like manufacturing, mining, and infrastructure keeps skilled welders in high demand.
5. Boilermaker
A boilermaker is tasked with fabricating and installing large containers like boilers and tanks used to store gases and liquids. They are essential in power generation, mining, and manufacturing.
Boilermaker Qualifications:
- National Certificate in Boilermaking
- Apprenticeship experience
- Trade Test Certificate
Boilermaker Salary:
- Entry-Level: +-R150,150 per annum
- Experienced: +-R306,150 per annum
Why Boilermakers Are In Demand:
As South Africa continues to develop its infrastructure and energy sectors, boilermakers remain essential to maintaining and constructing vital facilities.
6. Bricklayers and Masons
Bricklayers and masons build walls, chimneys, and other structures using bricks, stones, and concrete blocks. Their trade is foundational to the construction industry.
Qualifications:
- National Certificate in Bricklaying and Plastering
- Apprenticeship or practical experience
- Trade Test Certificate
Salary Range:
- Entry-Level: +-R277,100 per annum
- Experienced: +-R463,600 per annum
Why In Demand:
The expansion of residential housing and commercial properties ensures that bricklayers and masons are continually in high demand across South Africa.
7. Diesel Mechanic
A diesel mechanic maintains and repairs diesel engines found in trucks, buses, and other large vehicles, crucial to the logistics and transportation sectors.
Diesel Mechanic Qualifications:
- National Certificate in Diesel Mechanics
- Trade Test Certificate
- Apprenticeship experience
Diesel Mechanic Salary:
- Entry-Level: +-R178,000 per annum
- Experienced: +-R282,450 per annum
Why Diesel Mechanics Are In Demand:
With South Africa’s growing logistics and transportation sectors, the need for diesel mechanics is constantly rising.
8. Automotive Technician
An automotive technician diagnoses and repairs cars and other vehicles, ensuring smooth running in the automotive industry.
Automotive Technician Qualifications:
- National Certificate in Motor Mechanics
- Trade Test Certificate
- Apprenticeship experience
Automotive Technician Salary:
- Entry-Level: +-R84,000 per annum
- Experienced: R178,500 per annum
Why Automotive Technicians Are In Demand:
The increasing number of vehicles on the road in South Africa makes skilled automotive technicians highly sought after.
9. Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technicians
These technicians install, maintain, and repair air conditioning and refrigeration systems, ensuring comfortable living environments and safe food storage.
Qualifications:
- National Certificate in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
- Trade Test Certificate
- Apprenticeship experience
Salary Range:
- Entry-Level: +-R269,850 per annum
- Experienced: +-R450,500 per annum
Why In Demand:
The demand for air conditioning and refrigeration systems in commercial spaces, hospitality, and cold storage continues to drive demand for these technicians.
10. Heavy Equipment Operator
A heavy equipment operator uses machinery like bulldozers and cranes to perform tasks on construction sites. They’re essential for infrastructure and mining projects.
Heavy Equipment Operator Qualifications:
- Practical experience and on-the-job training
- Certification in operating specific types of equipment
Heavy Equipment Operator Salary:
- Entry-Level: +-R84,000 per annum
- Experienced: +-R178,500 per annum
Why Heavy Equipment Operators Are In Demand:
With South Africa’s focus on infrastructure development and the growth of mining industries, heavy equipment operators are key players in these sectors.
11. Roofer
A roofer installs and repairs roofs to protect buildings from weather damage, ensuring homes and structures remain sound.
Roofer Qualifications:
- National Certificate in Roofing
- Apprenticeship or practical experience
- Trade Test Certificate
Roofer Salary:
- Entry-Level: +-R158,100 per annum
- Experienced: +-R250,150 per annum
Why Roofers Are In Demand:
Ongoing construction projects and the need for maintenance on older structures drive the demand for skilled roofers across South Africa.
12. Bakers
Bakers produce various baked goods, combining skill and creativity to meet the demands of consumers.
Baker Qualification:
- National Certificate in Baking
- Apprenticeship or practical experience
- On-the-job training
Baker Salary:
- Entry-Level: +-R36,000 per annum
- Experienced: +-R70,000 per annum
Why Bakers Are In Demand:
The growing demand for artisanal products and the hospitality industry’s expansion creates opportunities for bakers across South Africa.
13. Chefs
Chefs oversee the preparation of food in restaurants, hotels, and other dining establishments, combining skill, creativity, and management.
Chef Qualifications:
- National Certificate in Professional Cookery
- Apprenticeship or practical experience
- On-the-job training
Chef Salary:
- Average Salary: +-R125,900 per annum
Why Chefs Are In Demand:
With South Africa’s growing tourism and hospitality industry, the demand for skilled chefs remains high, particularly in urban areas and tourist hotspots.
14. Landscaper
A landscaper designs and maintains outdoor spaces, creating aesthetically pleasing environments in residential, commercial, and public areas.
Landscaper Qualifications:
- National Certificate in Landscaping
- Apprenticeship or practical experience
- On-the-job training
Landscaper Salary:
- Entry-Level: +-R22,000 per annum
- Experienced: +-R350,000 per annum
Why Landscapers Are In Demand:
As South Africa continues to urbanise, demand for landscapers is growing, particularly as people invest more in their outdoor spaces.
15. Tilers
Tilers install tiles on surfaces like floors and walls, ensuring that they are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Tiler Qualifications:
- National Certificate in Tiling
- Apprenticeship or practical experience
- Trade Test Certificate
Tiler Salary:
- Entry-Level: +-R270,500 per annum
- Experienced: +-R446,00 per annum
Why Tilers Are In Demand:
With continued construction in both residential and commercial spaces, tilers are needed to finish these projects to a high standard.
Fund Your Studies with Fundi
After you’ve chosen the skilled trade you would like to venture into, you may be ready to venture into your studies! With that said, tertiary education comes at a cost, and you may be wondering how you will fund your studies.
Don’t worry, Fundi can help! Fundi covers a range of educational costs, including everything from accommodation, learning devices and tuition fees.
Want to find out if you qualify? Then be sure to check out the Fundi loan calculator and start your educational journey today!
