If you're uncertain about which career path to pursue and don’t have a particular passion driving your decision, why not focus on a path that offers job security and long-term opportunities? As a leading technical recruitment company in South Africa, Skillzpage specializes in connecting businesses with top-tier IT, Telecoms, Engineering, and Finance professionals—roles that are critical to our economy’s growth.
The South African government has identified 144 critical skill jobs where we face a major skills shortage due to a lack of qualified professionals. This list includes roles where there simply aren’t enough people with the expertise needed to fulfil these positions. From engineering talent to IT specialists, these high-demand careers offer opportunities for job stability and growth.
Whether you’re in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, or Pretoria, this list is designed to help you identify careers that are in demand locally and nationally.
Explore the 144 critical skill jobs below and position yourself for a future filled with opportunities in South Africa’s top industries.
These roles set overall direction and manage large-scale operations.
1. Director (Enterprise/Organisation)
Description: Determines, formulates, and reviews the general policy program and the overall direction of an organisation, within the framework established by a board of directors or a similar governing body.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
2. Policy and Planning Manager
Description: Plans, develops, organises, directs, controls, and coordinates policy advice and strategic planning within organisations.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
3. Corporate General Manager (medium enterprises or larger)
Description: Plans, organises, directs, controls, and reviews the day-to-day operations and major functions of a commercial, industrial or other organisation (excluding government or local government) through departmental managers and subordinate executives.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
4. Programme or Project Manager
Description: Plans, organises, directs, controls, and coordinates special programmes or projects.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
5. Quality Systems Manager
Description: Plans, organises, directs, controls, and coordinates the deployment of quality systems and certification processes within an organisation.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
6. Customer Service Manager (Business Process Outsourcing sector)
Description: Plans, administers, and reviews customer services and after?sales services while maintaining sound customer relations.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
7. Research and Development Manager
Description: Plans, organises, directs, controls, and coordinates research and development activities within organisations.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
8. Manufacturing Operations Manager
Description: Plans, organises, directs, and controls manufacturing activities, including physical and human resources, measures performance, quality, and implements continuous improvement strategies.
Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
9. Supply and Distribution Manager
Description: Plans, administers, and reviews the supply, storage, and distribution of equipment, materials, and goods used and produced by an organisation.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
10. Call or Contact Centre Manager
Description: Manages the performance of call centre workers, processes, and technology against financial and non?financial operational targets.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
Focusing on research, environmental studies, and pure sciences.
11. Environmental Manager
Description: Plans, organises, directs, controls, and coordinates the development and implementation of an environmental management system, addressing issues such as pollution and waste treatment in compliance with legislation.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
12. Physicist
Description: Studies matter, space, time, energy, forces, and fields to further understand the laws governing the universe and apply these laws to solve practical problems.
Qualifications: Master's Degree (NQF Level 9)
13. Climate Change Scientist
Description: Evaluates scientific data, conducts climate research, and creates predictive models of climate change and its impacts on ecosystems and civilisation.
Qualifications: Master's Degree (NQF Level 9)
14. Chemist
Description: Studies chemical and physical properties of substances, and develops and monitors chemical processes and production.
Qualifications: Master's Degree (NQF Level 9)
15. Geologist
Description: Studies the composition and structure of the earth to increase scientific knowledge and develop practical applications in mineral exploration, civil engineering, and environmental protection.
Qualifications: Master's Degree (NQF Level 9)
16. Geophysicist
Description: Studies earth attributes to locate minerals, petroleum, or groundwater, and forecasts seismic, magnetic, and other activities.
Qualifications: Master's Degree (NQF Level 9)
17. Materials Scientist
Description: Studies non?metallic materials and advises on manufacturing processes and technical aspects of their production.
Qualifications: Master's Degree (NQF Level 9)
18. Mineralogist
Description: Studies the chemistry, crystal structure, and physical properties of minerals.
Qualifications: Master's Degree (NQF Level 9)
19. Hydrologist
Description: Researches underground and surface waters, including their distribution and circulation.
Qualifications: Master's Degree (NQF Level 9)
20. Oceanographer
Description: Studies the physical, chemical, and biological properties of ocean water masses.
Qualifications: Master's Degree (NQF Level 9)
21. General Biologist
Description: Studies living organisms, their origin, physiology, reproduction, and interactions with the environment.
Qualifications: Master's Degree (NQF Level 9)
22. Biotechnologist
Description: Studies living organisms and isolated biological molecules to develop new materials for various applications.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
23. Microbiologist
Description: Studies microscopic life forms such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa.
Qualifications: Master's Degree (NQF Level 9)
24. Zoologist
Description: Studies animal anatomy, physiology, ecology, and behaviour.
Qualifications: Master's Degree (NQF Level 9)
25. Agricultural Scientist
Description: Studies plants, animals, and cultivation techniques to enhance farm productivity.
Qualifications: Master's Degree (NQF Level 9)
26. Food and Beverage Scientist
Description: Studies properties of food and beverages and develops improved products and standards.
Qualifications: Master's Degree (NQF Level 9)
27. Conservation Scientist
Description: Develops and implements programs to protect fish, wildlife, and natural resources.
Qualifications: Master's Degree (NQF Level 9)
28. Environmental Scientist
Description: Studies and develops policies for controlling factors that may cause environmental degradation.
Qualifications: Master's Degree (NQF Level 9)
Encompassing roles in technical design, construction, and industrial processes.
29. Engineering Manager
Description: Plans, organises, directs, controls, and coordinates the design, operation, and construction of engineering and process plants, including mining operations.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
30. Industrial Engineer
Description: Reviews and improves the efficiency of operational processes across various industries.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
31. Industrial Engineering Technologist
Description: Analyses and applies industrial engineering technologies in projects.
Qualifications: Diploma or Advanced Certificate (NQF Level 6)
32. Civil Engineer
Description: Designs and oversees the construction and operation of civil engineering projects.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
33. Civil Engineering Technologist
Description: Applies engineering technologies in civil, mechanical, electrical, or electronic projects.
Qualifications: Diploma or Advanced Certificate (NQF Level 6)
34. Mechanical Engineer
Description: Oversees assembly, operation, and maintenance of mechanical and process plant installations.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
35. Mechanical Engineering Technologist
Description: Implements and tests mechanical engineering projects.
Qualifications: Diploma or Advanced Certificate (NQF Level 6)
36. Aeronautical Engineer
Description: Designs, develops, and maintains aircraft.
Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
37. Aeronautical Engineering Technologist
Description: Applies engineering technologies to aircraft design and construction.
Qualifications: Diploma or Advanced Certificate (NQF Level 6)
38. Naval Architect
Description: Designs, constructs, and repairs ships, boats, and offshore structures.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
39. Chemical Engineer
Description: Designs chemical process systems and oversees the operation of chemical plants.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
40. Chemical Engineering Technologist
Description: Implements and tests chemical engineering projects.
Qualifications: Diploma or Advanced Certificate (NQF Level 6)
41. Mining Engineer
Description: Plans and directs the extraction of minerals from the earth.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
42. Metallurgist
Description: Advises on metal extraction and processing techniques.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
43. Biomedical Engineer
Description: Applies engineering principles to solve medical and health-related problems.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
44. Quantity Surveyor
Description: Estimates and monitors construction costs throughout a project lifecycle.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
45. Agricultural Engineer
Description: Applies engineering principles to improve agricultural processes and equipment.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
46. Agricultural Engineering Technologist
Description: Analyses and applies engineering technologies in agricultural settings.
Qualifications: Diploma or Advanced Certificate (NQF Level 6)
47. Electrical Engineering Technologist
Description: Implements electrical systems and projects.
Qualifications: Diploma or Advanced Certificate (NQF Level 6)
48. Energy Engineer
Description: Designs and evaluates energy generation or efficiency projects.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
49. Energy Engineering Technologist
Description: Analyses and modifies energy systems and technologies.
Qualifications: Diploma or Advanced Certificate (NQF Level 6)
50. Electronics Engineer
Description: Designs and maintains electronic circuits and systems.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
51. Architect
Description: Designs buildings and creates detailed construction plans.
Qualifications: Master’s Degree (NQF Level 9)
52. Urban and Regional Planner
Description: Develops plans and policies for the controlled use of land in urban and rural areas.
Qualifications: Master’s Degree (NQF Level 9)
Roles in IT strategy, data management, and software development.
53. Chief Information Officer
Description: Directs the ICT strategy and ensures the technology infrastructure supports organisational operations.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
54. Data Management Manager
Description: Oversees design, development, and implementation of organisational database systems.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
55. ICT Systems Analyst
Description: Evaluates and proposes enhancements to existing ICT systems.
Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7)
56. Data Scientist
Description: Transforms large datasets into actionable insights using data-driven techniques.
Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7)
57. Software Developer
Description: Designs, develops, and maintains software applications.
Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7)
58. Programmer Analyst
Description: Develops and maintains software programs.
Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7)
59. Developer Programmer
Description: Builds and maintains code for software applications and writes technical documentation.
Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7)
60. Applications Programmer
Description: Writes and maintains code for various software applications and operating systems.
Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7)
61. Software Assurance Analyst
Description: Conducts quality assurance testing for software deployments.
Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7)
62. Computer Network Engineer
Description: Plans and optimises network and system services for operational readiness.
Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7)
63. Computer Systems Engineer
Description: Installs and configures software and hardware, ensuring system readiness and troubleshooting network issues.
Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7)
64. Network Analyst
Description: Researches network architecture and recommends design improvements.
Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7)
65. ICT Security Specialist
Description: Manages ICT security policies and procedures to mitigate threats.
Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7)
Focusing on digital content, visual communication, and multimedia production.
66. Multimedia Designer
Description: Designs and produces digital content for promotional, instructional, or entertainment purposes.
Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7)
67. Multimedia Specialist
Description: Creates computer animation, audio, video, and graphic content for various digital applications.
Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7)
Covering financial analysis, risk assessment, and fiscal management roles.
68. Actuary
Description: Analyses data to assess long?term financial risk and guide decision?making.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
69. External Auditor
Description: Evaluates and improves risk management, control, and governance processes.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma
70. Tax Professional
Description: Analyses taxation issues, prepares returns, and provides advisory services.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
71. Forensic Accountant
Description: Examines financial records to detect fraud and ensure fiscal integrity.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
72. Investment Analyst
Description: Analyzes securities and market trends to make investment recommendations.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
73. Investment Manager
Description: Manages securities portfolios and exercises discretion on behalf of clients.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
74. Investment Advisor
Description: Provides advice on securities and financial investments.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
75. Corporate Treasurer
Description: Manages corporate funding, liquidity, and financial risks.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
76. Organisational Risk Manager
Description: Advises on risk assessment processes and mitigation strategies.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
77. Internal Auditor
Description: Evaluates internal controls and governance processes.
Qualifications: Diploma or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
Focusing on strategic planning, policy, and market research.
78. Business Development Officer
Description: Coordinates local economic development initiatives to foster a business-friendly environment.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
79. Policy Analyst
Description: Collects and analyses data to inform planning, operations, and HR functions.
Qualifications: Bachelor Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 8)
80. Market Analyst
Description: Identifies market opportunities, develops advertising strategies, and evaluates potential business sites.
Qualifications: Master's Degree (NQF Level 9)
81. Economic Planner
Description: Conducts economic research and provides advice on production, distribution, and financial behaviour to shape policies.
Qualifications: Master's Degree (NQF Level 9)
Roles dedicated to academic instruction and skill development.
82. Specialist Nurse (Nursing Education)
Description: Lectures and facilitates training in specialist nursing programmes, including clinical facilitation and research.
Qualifications: Qualification in Nursing Education, a Master’s Degree (NQF Level 10), and a Postgraduate Diploma in the relevant nursing speciality.
83. University Lecturer – Senior Lecturer and Above
Description: Lectures and conducts research at the university level, guiding student learning and academic inquiry.
Qualifications: Doctoral Qualification (NQF Level 9) or Doctorate, with support from the Dean/Head.
84. FET Phase School Teacher (Grades 10 and 12, STEM subjects only)
Description: Teaches subjects at the Further Education and Training phase, preparing students for university or vocational training.
Qualifications: Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7)
85. Senior Phase School Teacher (Grades 8 and 9, STEM subjects only)
Description: Teaches subjects at the Senior Phase of schooling.
Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7)
86. Occupational Instructor (Air Traffic Space)
Description: Delivers and assesses training to ensure skill development for organisational objectives in air?traffic management.
Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7) and Air & Traffic qualification (not benchmarked to NQF)
Skilled roles requiring specialized technical and craft expertise.
87. Chemistry Technician
Description: Performs laboratory tests and analyses to support chemists and chemical engineers in various industries.
Qualifications: Diploma or Advanced Certificate (NQF Level 6)
88. Town Planning Technician
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