You’ve probably heard about lots of jobs that require either an apprenticeship or a degree to get started. But if you’re eager to get into the workforce right after high school without spending any extra time studying, we have good news: there are several well-paying and interesting career paths that allow you to do just that. Let’s take a look at three vocational careers to explore that don’t always require a formal apprenticeship, though some hands-on experience or short courses may be beneficial.
Landscape labourer
Landscape labourers work outdoors, helping create and maintain outdoor spaces like gardens, parks, and commercial properties. This job involves planting, trimming, mowing, mulching, and sometimes operating light machinery.
You’ll need physical stamina, teamwork skills, and attention to detail. Basic gardening knowledge is also important so you can tell an ornamental from a weed, and determine the level of care required for each area.
Many landscaping companies hire entry-level labourers without requiring formal training or an apprenticeship. You can build your skills as you work, and if you enjoy it, you could eventually become a landscape supervisor or even start your own business. It could be a perfect fit if you enjoy physical work and being outdoors. The practical skills you’ll gain, like equipment operation and plant care, can be useful in other areas too.
Tiler
Tilers specialise in laying tiles for walls, floors, and other surfaces in homes and commercial spaces. They work with a variety of materials, including ceramic, porcelain, and stone, and often assist clients in selecting tile patterns and designs.
Many tilers begin with on-the-job training, and some construction companies or independent tilers hire assistants or entry-level workers to help with simpler tasks, like mixing mortar, grouting, and cleaning up. Over time, as you learn from more experienced tile setters, you can start handling more complex parts of the job, from preparing surfaces to be covered and cutting and tiles around obstacles, to laying and setting tiles that create decorative designs.
You’ll need precision and attention to detail, basic math skills (to get the measuring and layout spot on, as well as working out volumes of tiles and grout needed), as well as physical stamina, dexterity, and a healthy splash of creativity to get designs just right.
Becoming a tiler could be great if you don’t want to work in an office and are creative and practical in equal measure. Once you gain experience, you may also have the option to start your own business.
Painter and decorator
Painters and decorators focus on preparing and painting interior and exterior surfaces. They also handle tasks like wallpapering, colour consultations, and finishes that meet customer needs and enhance aesthetic appeal. As a painting and decorating assistant, you’d be helping prepare surfaces, applying paint, and finishing surfaces, and helping with setting up and cleaning.
To work as a painter and decorator you’ll need physical dexterity, attention to detail, great hand-eye coordination, the ability to follow instructions, and a willingness to work in various settings.
Entry-level positions are widely available with no formal requirements, but you’ll need to be willing to put in long hours with early starts. Many painters and decorators start by working as assistants, learning proper techniques for prepping surfaces, building knowledge of different painting techniques and materials, and managing clean-ups.
Taking short courses or vocational studies in painting or interior decorating could expand your skills or fast track you to moving up the ladder (pun intended) or starting your own business.
Enter the workforce straight away
These vocational careers provide an entry point into the industry without the commitment of an apprenticeship, while still offering hands-on experience and valuable skills. Whether you’re interested in outdoor work, interior finishing, or specialised installation, each of these jobs could let you jump in, learn, and grow within the industry.
Plus, there’s always the option of studying while you work or upskilling down the track if you have a change of heart or would like to progress faster.
If you’re unsure about your next steps, check out the Study Work Grow website for more ideas, and speak to a career practitioner to help you work out what would be best for you.