Detective (SAPS) vs Civil Engineer
Salary Comparison.
Side-by-side monthly salary breakdown for South Africa in 2026 — entry to senior level, gross before tax.
Civil Engineer earns 110% more than Detective (SAPS)
Median R 44 000/month vs R 21 000/month — a R 23 000/month difference
Detective (SAPS)
R 252 000/year
5% below SA workforce median
Civil Engineer
R 528 000/year
100% above SA workforce median
Salary by experience level
| Level | Detective (SAPS) | Civil Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level(0–2 yrs) | R 14 000 | R 22 000 |
| Mid-level(3–6 yrs) | R 21 000 | R 44 000 |
| Senior(7+ yrs) | R 33 000 | R 75 000 |
Median monthly gross before PAYE tax · South Africa 2026
Salary range comparison
Entry-level
Mid-level
Senior
Key differences
Detective (SAPS)
SAPS detective posts are government-funded; growth is tied to budget allocations. The SAPS is chronically understaffed in detective capacity, with slow resolution of this gap.
Civil Engineer
South Africa's infrastructure backlog and government's infrastructure investment commitments mean consistent demand for civil engineers through the decade.
See your actual take-home pay
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Frequently asked questions
Which earns more — a Detective (SAPS) or a Civil Engineer in South Africa?▾
A Civil Engineer earns more on average. The median monthly salary for a Civil Engineer is R 44 000/month, compared to R 21 000/month for a Detective (SAPS) — a difference of R 23 000/month (110% higher).
What is the Detective (SAPS) salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Detective (SAPS) salary in South Africa is R 21 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 12 000–R 17 000/month, mid-level pays R 17 000–R 26 000/month, and senior roles pay R 25 000–R 45 000/month.
What is the Civil Engineer salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Civil Engineer salary in South Africa is R 44 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 18 000–R 28 000/month, mid-level pays R 35 000–R 58 000/month, and senior roles pay R 60 000–R 100 000/month.
How do I calculate take-home pay for a Detective (SAPS) or Civil Engineer?▾
Use the Rand Tools PAYE calculator. Enter the gross monthly salary and it will calculate your exact take-home pay after PAYE income tax, UIF (1% of gross, capped at R177.12/month), and any pension or medical aid contributions.