Getting a Job After Matric – Jobs That Don’t Require Qualifications

By | August 13, 2025

So, you’ve just finished Matric – congratulations! 🎉 That’s a huge milestone. But now comes the big question: What’s next?

Not everyone wants (or can afford) to jump straight into university or college. For some, the goal is to start earning money immediately. And here’s the good news – you don’t need a fancy degree to start building your career.

In South Africa, there are plenty of jobs that don’t require formal qualifications. Many employers value skills, attitude, and willingness to learn over certificates. In fact, some of the biggest success stories started with entry-level jobs and hard work.

In this article, we’ll break down:

  • Jobs you can get right after Matric (no tertiary qualifications required)
  • Where to find these jobs
  • Skills to make yourself stand out
  • How to grow from entry-level into higher-paying positions

1. Why Getting a Job After Matric Makes Sense

You might hear people say: “Without a degree, you can’t make it.” That’s simply not true.

Getting a job right after Matric can actually have some major advantages:

  • Financial independence – You start earning your own money.
  • Work experience – Employers love candidates with real-life work history.
  • Skill development – You’ll learn things no classroom can teach.
  • Networking – You’ll meet people who can help you grow in your career.

Plus, you can still study later while working – many companies even offer study bursaries or part-time learning options. (Check out our guide on Best Courses to Study Abroad for Jobs if you plan to upgrade your skills in the future.)

2. Jobs You Can Get Right After Matric (No Qualifications Needed)

Here’s the exciting part – there are tons of opportunities for Matriculants with no tertiary qualifications. Some require only basic computer skills, good communication, or physical fitness.

a) Retail Sales Assistant

  • What you do: Help customers, stock shelves, operate tills, and keep the store tidy.
  • Skills needed: Communication, customer service, teamwork.
  • Average salary: R4,000 – R8,000/month.
  • Where to find jobs: PNet, Indeed, Careers24.

b) Call Centre Agent

  • What you do: Answer customer calls, handle complaints, and provide product information.
  • Skills needed: Clear speaking voice, patience, listening skills.
  • Average salary: R5,000 – R10,000/month (plus commissions).
  • Pro tip: Call centres often provide paid training – great if you have no experience.

c) Receptionist

  • What you do: Greet visitors, answer phones, manage bookings.
  • Skills needed: Professionalism, organisation, basic computer knowledge.
  • Average salary: R6,000 – R12,000/month.

d) Driver or Delivery Person

  • What you do: Deliver packages, transport goods, or drive clients.
  • Skills needed: Valid driver’s licence, punctuality, navigation skills.
  • Average salary: R6,000 – R10,000/month (can be more with overtime).
  • Opportunities: Courier companies, Uber, Bolt, Mr D, Checkers Sixty60.

e) Waiter / Bartender

  • What you do: Serve food and drinks, handle customer requests.
  • Skills needed: Friendliness, multi-tasking, stamina.
  • Average salary: R3,000 – R6,000/month + tips.

f) Security Guard

  • What you do: Protect property, monitor CCTV, check entrances.
  • Skills needed: Observation skills, alertness.
  • Requirements: Must pass PSIRA registration (can be done without matric).
  • Average salary: R4,000 – R9,000/month.

g) General Labourer

  • What you do: Assist with construction, factory work, or maintenance.
  • Skills needed: Physical fitness, willingness to learn.
  • Average salary: R3,500 – R8,000/month.

h) Social Media Assistant

  • What you do: Post content, reply to comments, grow engagement.
  • Skills needed: Creativity, basic digital skills.
  • Average salary: R4,000 – R9,000/month.
  • Pro tip: If you love TikTok or Instagram, this could be perfect for you!

i) Cleaner / Domestic Worker

  • What you do: Maintain cleanliness in homes, offices, or hotels.
  • Skills needed: Attention to detail, time management.
  • Average salary: R3,000 – R6,000/month.

3. Where to Find These Jobs

Finding your first job can feel overwhelming, but here are the best places to look:

  • Online job portals:
  • Company websites: Big retailers like Shoprite, Woolworths, and Pick n Pay often advertise vacancies on their career pages.
  • Social media: Join Facebook job groups like Jobs in South Africa or search on LinkedIn.
  • Government programmes: Check the SAYouth platform for free opportunities for young people.

4. Tips to Land a Job Without Qualifications

You might not have a degree, but you can still stand out:

Create a simple CV – Include your Matric certificate, skills, and any volunteer work.
Be willing to start small – Many high-paying careers start in entry-level positions.
Show eagerness to learn – Employers love candidates with a positive attitude.
Dress professionally for interviews – First impressions count!
Network – Let friends and family know you’re looking for work.

5. Growing Your Career Without Qualifications

The beauty of starting work early is that you can earn while you learn. You can take:

6. The Bottom Line

Getting a job after Matric without formal qualifications is completely possible in South Africa. You don’t have to wait for a degree to start your career.

Start small, learn as much as you can, and use every job as a stepping stone to the next level. Before you know it, you’ll have built skills, experience, and maybe even enough savings to study further.

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