Mechanical Engineer vs Project Manager
Salary Comparison.
Side-by-side monthly salary breakdown for South Africa in 2026 — entry to senior level, gross before tax.
Project Manager 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
Project Manager
R 552 000/year
109% above SA workforce median
Salary by experience level
| Level | Mechanical Engineer | Project Manager |
|---|---|---|
| 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 85 000 |
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.
Project Manager
Demand for experienced project managers is consistent across all sectors, with IT and infrastructure projects driving most growth in South Africa.
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 Project Manager in South Africa?▾
A Project Manager earns more on average. The median monthly salary for a Project Manager 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 Project Manager salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Project Manager salary in South Africa is R 46 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 18 000–R 30 000/month, mid-level pays R 35 000–R 60 000/month, and senior roles pay R 65 000–R 120 000/month.
How do I calculate take-home pay for a Mechanical Engineer or Project Manager?▾
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.