8 in-demand jobs that don't need long-term study

Are you searching for a new role that won’t require years of study?

Perhaps you’re looking to enter the workforce quickly, or just don’t have the time and resources to commit to a lengthy degree or qualifications. The good news is there are plenty of opportunities to find rewarding work that suits your needs and skills, without having to take on study long-term.

If you’re considering a change, here are eight in-demand jobs that don’t require any long-term study, and that you can apply for right now on SEEK.

1. Administration Officer
   If you’re organised, have great time management skills and attention to detail, you have the ideal qualities of an Administration Officer. This role can be quite fast paced, with a range of responsibilities including general administration, customer service, managing schedules and appointments, monitoring stock levels, and preparing regular reports. No formal qualifications are required to be an Administration Officer, but a Certificate III in Business (Administration) (BSB30120), Certificate IV in Business (Administration) (BSB40120) or a Certificate IV in Business (Operations) (BSB40120) through a TAFE or Registered Training Organisation (RTO) may improve your business skills and increase your job prospects.

2. Store Manager
   If you consider customer service a strength of yours and enjoy managing people, a role as a Retail Store Manager could be a great option for you. There are plenty of store manager opportunities out there right now. No formal qualifications are needed, but strong communication, leadership and problem-solving skills are essential.

3. Cook or Chef
   If you’re passionate about food and enjoy working at a faster pace, then a role as a Chef or a Cook could be worth exploring. What you do each day depends on where you’re working (for example, restaurants or catering events) and your chosen area of specialisation. You don’t need a formal qualification but if you’re interested in specialising in a particular style of cooking, you can complete an apprenticeship as part of a Vocational Education and Training (VET) course that matches your cooking interests. This could be a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (SIT30821), Certificate III in Patisserie (SIT31021) or Certificate III in Bread Baking (FBP30421). It’s also recommended you hold a Food Handler’s Certificate.

4. Barista
   As a Barista, you’ll enjoy a lot of interaction with customers and the opportunity to learn some new skills. No formal qualifications are needed, but you may want to undertake a short course or two to help you gain the basic skills. Alternatively, many cafes and venues will offer on-the-job training to new Baristas.

5. Customer Service Representative
   If customer service and communication are some of your top strengths and you enjoy helping people, you could consider a role as a Customer Service Representative. Your day would involve interacting with customers to answer queries over the phone, online or face-to-face. There are plenty of opportunities available right now and no formal qualifications are needed. If you’re organised, and have great communication skills and resilience, you have the ideal qualities of a Customer Service Representative.

6. Disability Support Worker
   If you find caring for others rewarding, this kind of work could be ideal for you. Support Workers play a really valuable role in supporting vulnerable people. As a Disability Support Worker, you help individuals and families with a range of household and personal tasks such as filling out paperwork, administering medication and providing companionship and day-to-day support. Most Support Workers learn the skills required on the job, but some employers may require you to have a Certificate III in Individual Support (CHC33015) at a TAFE or registered training organisation. Some employers may also require a police check and a valid driver’s licence. To get experience in the industry and to boost your resumé, you could also volunteer in Disability Services.

7. Retail Sales Assistant
   If you think of yourself as a ‘people person’ and enjoy interacting with others, Retail Sales Assistant could be a role for you. This requires working in shops and providing a high-quality customer experience by greeting customers, establishing their needs and helping them find products. It also involves assisting with the day-to-day operations of a store. Working in retail often also has the benefit of flexibility in hours if you’re looking for full-time, part-time or casual employment. On-the-job training is typically provided so no formal qualifications are needed. If you’re looking to further your career in retail, you can work your way up and apply for promotions to more senior roles, such as Retail Store Manager or Brand Manager.

8. Storeperson
   If you’re looking for a hands-on and varied role, a Storeperson could be a great option. As a Storeperson you would be responsible for receiving, handling and packing goods. You don’t need any formal qualifications but may need to gain relevant licenses such as a forklift licence and/or high risk work licence. You could also consider completing a relevant vocational qualification, such as a Certificate III in Supply Chain Operations (TLI30321) which would prepare you for work in a warehouse environment. You might also like to explore a role as a Forklift Driver.

Whether you’re looking to find a job now, or you’re just exploring options for making a change, the roles in this list cover a range of skills, industries and interests. Take a moment to read up on these roles and see if there are any you’d like to pursue – then check out advice on creating your resumé and tips on applying for jobs.

Source: SEEK job ad data based on volumes May 2023 - July 2023.

Read more:

• How to create a transferable skills resume
• Transferable skills checklist 
• 3 skills you’re undervaluing in your job application