Project Manager vs Electrical Engineer
Salary Comparison.
Side-by-side monthly salary breakdown for South Africa in 2026 — entry to senior level, gross before tax.
Project Manager
R 552 000/year
109% above SA workforce median
Electrical Engineer
R 552 000/year
109% above SA workforce median
Salary by experience level
| Level | Project Manager | Electrical Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level(0–2 yrs) | R 23 000 | R 23 000 |
| Mid-level(3–6 yrs) | R 46 000 | R 46 000 |
| Senior(7+ yrs) | R 85 000 | R 80 000 |
Median monthly gross before PAYE tax · South Africa 2026
Salary range comparison
Entry-level
Mid-level
Senior
Key differences
Project Manager
Demand for experienced project managers is consistent across all sectors, with IT and infrastructure projects driving most growth in South Africa.
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 Project Manager or a Electrical Engineer in South Africa?▾
Both earn roughly the same — the median monthly salary for a Project Manager and a Electrical Engineer in South Africa is R 46 000/month gross in 2026.
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.
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 Project 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.