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Qualified Skilled Trades in Australia

Qualified skilled trades are jobs that require specialised training and education. These trade jobs typically involve building, fixing or maintaining various types of machines, tools or equipment. They also include careers in areas such as welding, carpentry, bricklaying and plumbing. Tradies in Australia are some of the most important workers in our economy and keep our country running.

In order to be a qualified skilled trade worker, you will need to have completed an apprenticeship or have several years of experience working in the field. A common pathway is to complete a Certificate III or higher in the relevant trade whilst gaining experience through an apprentice or trainee job. Many of these roles are very important, as they help to keep our infrastructure running smoothly. Without qualified skilled trade workers, we would not be able to enjoy many of the modern conveniences that we rely on every day.

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Industries Hiring Skilled Trades Workers:

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• Trades & Services

• Construction

• Engineering

• Manufacturing

• Mining

• Transport Logistics

• Defence, Emergency & Security

• Agribusiness & Farming

• Warehousing

• Food Processing

• And more

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​What jobs are available for skilled trades workers?

There are many different types of trades, and most require an apprenticeship to become qualified. Finding a trade that is suited to your interests and abilities will put you in good stead for a long-lasting career. The rate of pay for trades also varies depending on the skill level and how in need that occupation is; you can see the future Outlook for any occupation on the government’s Labour Market Insights page.

Some of the skilled trades careers available in Australia include:

Agriculture

• Farm Manager

• Agricultural Equipment Operator

• Animal Caretaker

• Greenhouse Manager

• Conservation Technician

Construction

• Electrician

• Plumber

• Painter

• Carpenter

• Airconditioning/Heating Technician

• Paver

• Plasterer

• Roofer

• Crane Operator

Industrial & Manufacturing

• Welder

• Metal Fitter / Machinist

• Metal Fabricator

• Cabinetmaker

Mining

• Miner

• Driller

• Explosives Technician

• Plant Operator

• Heavy Equipment Technician

Transport

• Diesel Mechanic

• Auto Electrician

• Machine Operator

• Mechanic

• Truck Driver

There are many other skilled trades not mentioned here that are in high demand. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in a trade, the best way to find out more information is to speak to a career counsellor or someone working in the industry you’re interested in. Alternatively, you can search for apprenticeship vacancies on the government’s Apprenticeship website or job boards such as Seek and Indeed.

Trades in Demand in Australia

The 2021 Skills Priority List gives an insight into which highly skilled trades are predicted to experience strong future demand. These trades are a worthwhile investment of your time and training as you will be able to capitalise on your expertise in an area that is in high demand.  The jobs on the list are those that contribute to industries critical to Australia’s economic and social recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The trades listed on the skills priority list include:

• Sheetmetal Trades Worker

• Metal Fabricator 

• Pressure Welder 

• Welder (First Class) 

• Electrician (General)

• Electrician (Special Class) 

• Agricultural and Horticultural Mobile Plant Operator

• Mechanical Engineering Draftsperson

• Truck Driver (General) 

• Motor Vehicle Parts and Accessories Fitter (General)

Skills and Knowledge

In addition to having strong technical knowledge, these workers also need to be good problem solvers and excellent communicators. If you would like to pursue a career in one of the qualified skilled trades, there are many educational programs available across Australia. The Apprenticeship Support website is a great place to start your research. 

There are many benefits to having a career in a qualified skilled trade. These workers are in high demand, and they often enjoy above-average salaries and job security. If you have a passion for working with your hands and solving problems, a career in a qualified skilled trade may be the perfect fit for you.

Start your trades career with an Apprenticeship

If you are interested in pursuing a career in a skilled trade, there are many options available to you. With the right training and education, you can have a very successful and rewarding career in this field. Apprentices and trainees learn the specialized skills needed to work in blue collar skilled labour jobs. Read our guide on How to apply for apprenticeships and keep an eye on our Jobs page – we often have apprentice or trainee positions advertised.

Supplement your workforce by hiring an Apprentice

Qualified skilled tradespeople are in high demand due to an aging workforce and growing retirements. Apprentices are needed now more than ever, and with the TRS Employee apprenticeship program, you can address gaps in your workforce while simultaneously ensuring the future of Australia’s skilled trades sector.

Are you a Job Seeker?

At TRS Resourcing, we know the blue collar workforce keeps Australia going. We’re constantly advertising jobs for qualified workers in Melbourne and Perth. As one of the best recruitment agencies for skilled labour hire, we know how to match each candidate with a role that suits their unique skills and experience.

Find a skilled trades job with TRS today or begin your job search with our Career Guide for Job Seekers.

Do you have a job in Perth or Melbourne that needs to be filled? ​​

We are the experts in skilled labour hire in Melbourne Victoria and Perth Western Australia. Contact TRS Resourcing today for exceptional recruitment services every time. To speak with TRS Labour Hire Recruitment Consultants, please contact the following offices:

Labour Hire Melbourne 03 9917 3545

Labour Hire Perth 08 6205 3570

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