Mechanical Engineer 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 5% more than Mechanical Engineer
Median R 46 000/month vs R 44 000/month — a R 2 000/month difference
Mechanical Engineer
R 528 000/year
100% above SA workforce median
Electrical Engineer
R 552 000/year
109% above SA workforce median
Salary by experience level
| Level | Mechanical Engineer | Electrical Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level(0–2 yrs) | R 22 000 | R 23 000 |
| Mid-level(3–6 yrs) | R 44 000 | 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
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical engineers remain in steady demand, with particular growth in renewable energy infrastructure, electric vehicles, and South Africa's manufacturing sector.
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
Enter any gross salary to calculate PAYE, UIF, and net pay after deductions.
Frequently asked questions
Which earns more — a Mechanical Engineer 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 44 000/month for a Mechanical Engineer — a difference of R 2 000/month (5% higher).
What is the Mechanical Engineer salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Mechanical Engineer salary in South Africa is R 44 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 18 000–R 27 000/month, mid-level pays R 35 000–R 57 000/month, and senior roles pay R 58 000–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 Mechanical Engineer 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.