HR Manager vs Electrical Engineer
Salary Comparison.
Side-by-side monthly salary breakdown for South Africa in 2026 — entry to senior level, gross before tax.
Electrical Engineer earns 15% more than HR Manager
Median R 46 000/month vs R 40 000/month — a R 6 000/month difference
HR Manager
R 480 000/year
82% above SA workforce median
Electrical Engineer
R 552 000/year
109% above SA workforce median
Salary by experience level
| Level | HR Manager | Electrical Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level(0–2 yrs) | R 17 500 | R 23 000 |
| Mid-level(3–6 yrs) | R 40 000 | R 46 000 |
| Senior(7+ yrs) | R 75 000 | R 80 000 |
Median monthly gross before PAYE tax · South Africa 2026
Salary range comparison
Entry-level
Mid-level
Senior
Key differences
HR Manager
HR Business Partners and HR professionals with strong labour relations and EE compliance expertise are consistently in demand. Digital HR (HRIS, people analytics) is an emerging premium skill.
Electrical Engineer
Demand for electrical engineers is surging in South Africa's renewable energy buildout, offering excellent opportunities for specialised engineers through 2030.
See your actual take-home pay
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Frequently asked questions
Which earns more — a HR Manager or a Electrical Engineer in South Africa?▾
A Electrical Engineer earns more on average. The median monthly salary for a Electrical Engineer is R 46 000/month, compared to R 40 000/month for a HR Manager — a difference of R 6 000/month (15% higher).
What is the HR Manager salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median HR Manager salary in South Africa is R 40 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 14 000–R 22 000/month, mid-level pays R 30 000–R 55 000/month, and senior roles pay R 60 000–R 100 000/month.
What is the Electrical Engineer salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Electrical Engineer salary in South Africa is R 46 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 19 000–R 29 000/month, mid-level pays R 36 000–R 60 000/month, and senior roles pay R 62 000–R 105 000/month.
How do I calculate take-home pay for a HR Manager or Electrical 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.