Wollongong Jobs 2026: Healthcare, Education, Top Employers and Salaries

Wollongong's Employment Landscape

Wollongong has transformed dramatically since the decline of the steel industry, evolving into a regional economy anchored by the University of Wollongong (UOW), healthcare, manufacturing, and a growing cohort of knowledge economy businesses. Its proximity to Sydney (about 80km south) means many residents commute, but a strong local job market exists in its own right.

Major Employment Sectors

Healthcare, Wollongong Hospital (Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District's major facility), Wollongong Private Hospital, and a network of community health services are the region's largest employers. Nursing and allied health roles are consistently available.

Education, the University of Wollongong is a world-ranked research university and one of the Illawarra's largest employers. TAFE NSW Illawarra and the region's school system provide further education employment.

Manufacturing and engineering, BlueScope Steel at Port Kembla remains a major employer, as does the broader industrial precinct. Advanced manufacturing, engineering consultancies, and technical trades support the sector.

Construction, Wollongong's residential growth (driven partly by people priced out of Sydney) has kept construction active. Coastal development and infrastructure projects in the region contribute.

Professional services, law firms, accounting firms, and business services catering to the Illawarra economy provide a local professional employment base.

Finding Work in Wollongong

SEEK and Indeed are the main platforms. NSW Government roles are at iworkfor.nsw.gov.au. The Illawarra Mercury and local Facebook groups cover local employment opportunities. Sydney commuter roles also expand the effective job market significantly.