If you’re planning your career or considering a change, it’s important to know which jobs pay the most in South Africa today. Some roles come with high salaries because they require rare skills, years of training, or come with serious responsibilities.
In this article, you’ll find a clear list of the 30 highest-paying jobs in South Africa, ranked by average monthly income. The data is based on 2025 salary reports from trusted sources including BusinessTech, Briefly, Youth Village, and Rateweb.
This list starts with the highest earners and gives you a quick snapshot of how much professionals in each field make per month.
Let’s begin with the highest-paying job in the country.
1. Neurosurgeon
Estimated Monthly Salary: R250,000 – R417,000
If you’re aiming for the highest-paying job in South Africa, this is it. Neurosurgeons are highly specialized doctors who operate on the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system. It’s a demanding career that involves long hours, high pressure, and years of study, but the financial reward is unmatched.
To become a neurosurgeon, you’ll need a medical degree (MBChB), followed by a two-year internship, one-year community service, and six years of specialist training. In total, it takes around 13–15 years to fully qualify.
Most neurosurgeons work in private hospitals or academic medical centers in major cities. It’s not a quick path, but if you’re serious about a high-income medical career, this is the top of the ladder.
2. Cardiothoracic Surgeon
Estimated Monthly Salary: R233,000 – R375,000
Cardiothoracic surgeons perform operations on the heart, lungs, and chest area. This includes heart bypasses, valve replacements, and lung surgeries. It’s a critical role that requires precision and deep medical expertise.
To qualify, you’ll need a medical degree (MBChB), internship, community service, and about six additional years of specialist training in cardiothoracic surgery.
These specialists are mostly found in major hospitals and private healthcare centers. The salary reflects the life-or-death nature of the work, the years of training involved, and the shortage of professionals in this field. It’s one of the most respected and highest-paid careers in South Africa.
3. CEO (Chief Executive Officer)
Estimated Monthly Salary: R208,000 – R833,000+
CEOs are the highest-ranking executives in a company. They make key decisions, set business strategy, and are responsible for overall performance. Salaries vary widely depending on the size and success of the company; top CEOs in banking, telecom, and mining often earn over R800,000 per month.
Becoming a CEO typically requires years of leadership experience, a strong track record, and qualifications such as an MBA or related business degree. Many start in finance, sales, or operations and rise through the ranks.
If you’re ambitious and have long-term goals in business leadership, this is the most lucrative path in the corporate world.
4. Radiation Oncologist
Estimated Monthly Salary: R188,000 – R300,000
Radiation oncologists treat cancer patients using radiation therapy. They work closely with medical oncologists and surgeons to plan treatment and monitor progress. The role requires a deep understanding of cancer biology, imaging, and radiation equipment.
To enter this field, you’ll need a medical degree, two years of general training, and at least four years of specialist training in oncology.
These specialists are in demand in both public and private cancer treatment centers, especially in urban areas. If you’re interested in a medical career with long-term financial rewards and want to work in a growing healthcare field, this is a strong option.
5. Ship Captain (Deep-Sea/Maritime)
Estimated Monthly Salary: R167,000 – R292,000
Ship captains oversee large cargo vessels, tankers, or offshore support ships. They’re responsible for navigation, crew management, safety, and delivering goods across international waters. It’s a high-stress job that comes with long periods away from home.
To qualify, you’ll typically need a maritime qualification from an accredited marine academy, sea-time experience, and a Certificate of Competency (Master’s license).
South Africa’s port cities like Cape Town, Durban, and Port Elizabeth are key areas for this profession. If you’re comfortable with extended travel and want a career that pays well outside the traditional office setting, this could be a fit.
6. Actuary
Estimated Monthly Salary: R125,000 – R250,000
Actuaries use maths, statistics, and financial theory to assess risk, especially in insurance, pensions, and investments. Their calculations help companies avoid financial losses and make informed decisions.
To become an actuary, you’ll need a strong maths background, typically a degree in actuarial science or a related field, and you must pass a series of professional exams. It’s one of the toughest fields to qualify in, but the financial payoff is substantial.
Actuaries are mostly employed by insurance firms, banks, and consulting firms. If you enjoy problem-solving and long-term financial planning, this is a highly rewarding path.
7. Mining Engineer (Deep-Level)
Estimated Monthly Salary: R125,000 – R183,000
Mining engineers plan and oversee the construction and operation of mines. In deep-level mining, common in South Africa, the work involves advanced planning for underground tunnels, ventilation, and safety systems.
You’ll need a degree in mining engineering and some years of practical experience to reach senior or high-paying roles. The work is physically and mentally demanding, often in remote or hazardous conditions.
With South Africa’s rich mineral resources, this profession remains one of the highest-paying in the engineering sector. It suits those who don’t mind working underground and are looking for high earnings in a technical role.
8. Corporate Lawyer (Partner Level)
Estimated Monthly Salary: R100,000 – R167,000
Corporate lawyers handle high-stakes legal matters like mergers, acquisitions, compliance, and contracts for large businesses. At partner level ,especially in top law firms, the earnings are substantial.
To get here, you’ll need an LLB degree, completion of articles, admission as an attorney, and several years of experience. Success depends heavily on expertise, negotiation skill, and building a strong client base.
Lawyers working with multinational corporations or in sectors like finance and energy often earn the most. If you’re analytical, persuasive, and willing to put in the hours, this path offers both status and high pay.
9. Software Architect
Estimated Monthly Salary: R83,000 – R150,000
Software architects design the overall structure of complex software systems. They decide how different parts of an app or platform work together, often guiding development teams through execution.
You’ll typically start as a software developer, gain years of experience, and grow into this role by mastering both coding and system design. A degree in computer science or IT is common, but practical skills and a strong portfolio matter more.
These professionals are in demand across fintech, telecom, and startups. If you’re in tech and want to move into a leadership role with strong income potential, this is a smart step up.
10. Airline Pilot (Senior Captain)
Estimated Monthly Salary: R75,000 – R125,000
Senior airline pilots, especially captains flying international routes, earn some of the highest salaries in the aviation industry. Their role involves navigating commercial aircraft, managing crew, and ensuring passenger safety.
To become a pilot, you’ll need a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), followed by an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) and hundreds of flight hours. Training is expensive and demanding, but once qualified, the pay and travel perks are significant.
Most high-earning pilots work for major airlines like SAA, FlySafair, or international carriers. If you’re looking for a career with prestige and global exposure, this is a top contender.
11. Petroleum Engineer
Estimated Monthly Salary: R70,000 – R116,000
Petroleum engineers design and manage the processes that extract oil and gas from underground reservoirs. Their work includes drilling plans, safety systems, and improving production efficiency.
You’ll need a degree in petroleum, chemical, or mechanical engineering. Offshore experience, technical certifications, and a willingness to work in remote areas can boost your earning potential.
South Africa’s oil and gas sector isn’t as large as in other regions, but engineers in this field often work with international firms or offshore rigs where salaries are competitive. It’s a solid choice if you’re technically skilled and open to fieldwork.
12. Executive Director / Senior Management
Estimated Monthly Salary: R100,000 – R134,000
Executive directors are responsible for overseeing entire departments or divisions within large companies. They play a key role in setting strategy, managing budgets, and leading teams toward business goals.
Most directors have 10+ years of experience and qualifications like an MBA or a business-related degree. Performance, leadership, and networking often matter more than the degree alone.
This role is common in sectors like finance, telecom, and mining, especially in Johannesburg and Cape Town. If you’re already in management and want to move up, director roles offer high pay and long-term career growth.
13. Civil/Structural Engineer (Senior Level)
Estimated Monthly Salary: R70,000 – R110,000
Senior civil and structural engineers design and manage the construction of infrastructure like bridges, buildings, and roads. Their job involves planning, safety analysis, and supervising on-site work.
To reach senior level, you’ll need a degree in civil engineering, a professional registration (like ECSA), and years of experience in major projects.
These engineers are vital in both public and private construction sectors. As cities expand and infrastructure is upgraded, demand for experienced professionals stays strong. If you’re in engineering and want to reach higher pay brackets, specialization and leadership can make a big difference.
14. Enterprise / IT Architect
Estimated Monthly Salary: R65,000 – R90,000
Enterprise or IT architects are responsible for designing the structure of large-scale IT systems used across an entire business. They align tech infrastructure with business goals, ensuring systems are scalable, secure, and efficient.
This role usually requires a degree in IT, computer science, or software engineering, along with certifications like TOGAF or AWS Solutions Architect. Experience in systems analysis, cybersecurity, and project management is also key.
You’ll find these roles in banking, telecoms, and large corporates. For experienced IT professionals looking to move beyond coding into strategic tech leadership, this role offers both impact and a high salary.
15. Consulting Engineer
Estimated Monthly Salary: R43,000 – R70,000
Consulting engineers provide expert advice on the design, construction, and operation of engineering projects. They often work independently or for engineering firms, handling tasks like feasibility studies, design plans, and compliance checks.
A degree in civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering is typically required, along with ECSA registration. Many consulting engineers specialize over time — for example, in water systems, energy, or transport infrastructure.
Because they work across industries and manage multiple projects, skilled consultants are in steady demand. It’s a good fit for engineers who enjoy varied work and want more autonomy and earning potential.
16. Mechanical Engineer (Senior Level)
Estimated Monthly Salary: R45,000 – R66,000
Senior mechanical engineers design, develop, and maintain mechanical systems, from factory machinery to power generation equipment. Their job involves problem-solving, project management, and overseeing technical teams.
To earn at this level, you’ll need a mechanical engineering degree and several years of industry experience. Professional registration with ECSA can also boost credibility and pay.
You’ll find high-paying roles in manufacturing, mining, automotive, and energy sectors. If you enjoy technical work and want room for progression, mechanical engineering offers a solid balance of salary and stability.
17. Database Administrator / Developer
Estimated Monthly Salary: R45,000 – R65,000
Database administrators (DBAs) and developers manage and optimize the systems that store and retrieve data. Their work ensures that databases are secure, efficient, and available when needed.
Most DBAs start with a degree in IT or computer science and gain expertise in SQL, Oracle, or Microsoft SQL Server. Certifications from vendors like Microsoft or Oracle can help with advancement.
This role is vital in sectors like banking, retail, and healthcare. As data continues to drive decision-making, skilled database professionals are well-positioned for stable and high-paying roles.
18. IT Project Manager
Estimated Monthly Salary: R50,000 – R60,000
IT project managers oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of technology projects. They coordinate between developers, business teams, and stakeholders to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget.
To qualify, you’ll typically need a degree in IT, business, or project management, along with certifications like PMP, Prince2, or Agile/Scrum. Experience managing software rollouts or infrastructure upgrades is highly valued.
These roles are in demand across telecoms, finance, healthcare, and government. If you’re organized, good with people, and have technical knowledge, IT project management is a strong mid-to-senior career with good earning potential.
19. Senior Manager (Various Fields)
Estimated Monthly Salary: R45,000 – R60,000
Senior managers are found across industries, from finance to logistics and are responsible for leading teams, setting targets, and driving performance. They typically report to directors or executives and are key to daily operations.
To earn this kind of salary, you’ll need years of experience in your field, strong leadership skills, and often a qualification in management or business. Results matter more than titles at this level.
If you’re already working your way up in a specific industry, moving into a senior management role can offer both career growth and a solid monthly income.
20. Business Analyst (IT)
Estimated Monthly Salary: R41,000 – R60,000
IT business analysts bridge the gap between business needs and technical solutions. They gather requirements, analyze processes, and help teams design systems that improve productivity and reduce costs.
To enter the field, a degree in information systems, business, or IT is common. Employers often look for experience in software development life cycles, as well as certifications like CBAP or Agile BA.
These roles are common in banks, insurance firms, and large corporations. If you’re good at problem-solving and communication, this job offers a strong salary and steady demand in South Africa’s digital economy.
21. Software Developer / Engineer
Estimated Monthly Salary: R40,000 – R60,000
Software developers write, test, and maintain the code that powers websites, apps, and business systems. Salaries increase with experience, especially for those skilled in in-demand languages like Python, Java, or C#.
Most developers have a degree in computer science or software engineering, but many succeed through bootcamps and self-taught skills. Continuous learning is key in this fast-changing field.
Developers are in high demand across industries, including fintech, e-commerce, and mobile app development. If you enjoy building things and solving problems, this career offers flexibility, global job opportunities, and strong pay growth.
22. Electrical Engineer
Estimated Monthly Salary: R40,000 – R65,000
Electrical engineers design, develop, and maintain electrical systems, from power generation and distribution to industrial automation and electronics. Senior roles often involve leading projects and managing technical teams.
A bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering is required, and professional registration with ECSA adds credibility. Experience in power utilities, mining, or manufacturing can lead to higher pay.
With ongoing investments in energy infrastructure and automation, skilled electrical engineers continue to be in demand. If you have a strong technical background and enjoy working with complex systems, this is a solid career with long-term earning potential.
23. Risk Management Specialist / Quantitative Analyst
Estimated Monthly Salary: R50,000 – R62,500
Risk specialists and quantitative analysts work in finance, analyzing data to identify potential risks in investments, lending, and operations. They use models and forecasting tools to help companies make safer financial decisions.
Most roles require a degree in finance, economics, mathematics, or statistics. Advanced positions often demand postgraduate degrees or certifications like FRM (Financial Risk Manager) or CFA.
These roles are common in banks, insurance companies, and asset management firms. If you’re analytical and enjoy working with data, risk management offers strong salaries and a clear growth path within the financial sector.
24. Financial Manager / Applications Development Manager
Estimated Monthly Salary: R58,000 – R70,000
Financial managers oversee a company’s budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. In tech-driven companies, application development managers play a similar leadership role but in software teams, supervising app planning, coding, and delivery.
A degree in finance, accounting, or computer science is typical, along with management experience. Chartered Accountant (CA) status or certifications in project and product management can boost earning potential.
Both roles exist across sectors like banking, telecom, retail, and software development. If you’re aiming to move into leadership from either a finance or tech background, these positions offer high pay and long-term growth.
25. Chartered Accountant (CA)
Estimated Monthly Salary: R55,000 – R65,000
Chartered Accountants handle complex financial reporting, auditing, tax strategy, and advisory services. Their expertise is crucial to business compliance and long-term financial planning.
To become a CA in South Africa, you’ll need a BCom degree, pass SAICA exams, complete a training contract, and qualify through board exams. It’s a rigorous path but one of the most respected in the finance world.
CAs are in demand across private firms, auditing firms like PwC and Deloitte, and the government. If you’re detail-oriented and financially minded, this is one of the most stable and well-paid accounting careers available.
26. Cybersecurity Engineer
Estimated Monthly Salary: R40,000 – R55,000
Cybersecurity engineers protect computer systems and networks from cyberattacks, data breaches, and malware. Their work includes setting up firewalls, monitoring threats, and responding to security incidents.
To qualify, you’ll need a degree in information technology or cybersecurity, plus hands-on experience. Certifications like CEH, CISSP, or CompTIA Security+ are widely recognized and can boost your pay.
With rising cybercrime in South Africa and globally, this role is growing fast in banks, telecoms, and large enterprises. If you’re technical and detail-oriented, cybersecurity offers job security, remote work opportunities, and a clear income growth path.
27. IT Manager
Estimated Monthly Salary: R40,000 – R50,000
IT managers oversee the daily operation of tech departments, including networks, support teams, systems upgrades, and IT security. They serve as the link between business strategy and technical execution.
A degree in IT or computer science is common, along with strong leadership experience. Certifications in project management (like PMP) or service management (ITIL) can also be helpful.
IT managers are needed in nearly every sector, from retail and education to banking and logistics. For professionals looking to step up from hands-on tech work into leadership, this role offers solid pay and broader responsibility.
28. Dentist
Estimated Monthly Salary: R40,000 – R60,000
Dentists diagnose and treat issues related to teeth, gums, and overall oral health. They perform procedures like fillings, root canals, extractions, and cosmetic work such as whitening or veneers.
To qualify, you need a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree and registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). Many dentists work in private practice, where earnings can vary depending on location, patient base, and services offered.
If you’re looking for a healthcare career with strong income and the option to run your own practice, dentistry offers both flexibility and financial rewards.
29. Plant Manager
Estimated Monthly Salary: R46,000 – R56,000
Plant managers oversee manufacturing or industrial facilities, ensuring that operations run efficiently and safely. They manage staff, monitor production targets, and handle budgets and maintenance schedules.
A degree in engineering, industrial management, or operations is often required, along with years of experience in manufacturing or processing environments.
This role is common in sectors like mining, food production, automotive, and chemicals. For professionals already working in manufacturing, stepping into plant management offers a chance to lead operations and earn one of the better salaries in the industrial space.
30. General Practitioner (GP)
Estimated Monthly Salary: R50,000 – R61,000
General Practitioners are medical doctors who provide primary health care, diagnosing common illnesses, prescribing treatment, and referring patients to specialists when needed. They are often the first point of contact in both public and private healthcare systems.
To become a GP, you’ll need to complete a medical degree (MBChB), two years of internship, and one year of community service. GPs working in private practice generally earn more, especially in well-located or high-demand areas.
While not the highest-paying role in medicine, it’s still a solid and respected career with stable income, especially for those looking to run their own clinic or work flexible hours.
Wrap up: choosing a high-income career in South Africa
South Africa offers a wide range of high-paying careers across medicine, engineering, finance, IT, and corporate leadership. As this list shows, the highest salaries go to professionals with specialized skills, years of experience, or advanced qualifications.
If you’re aiming for a top-earning role, consider what it takes to qualify, how long it takes to get there, and whether the field aligns with your strengths. Not every job on this list is easy to enter, but many are achievable with the right training and planning.
Use this information to guide your next step, whether that’s studying, upskilling, or switching careers.
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