Entry-level Chemical Engineer salary in South Africa
What first-year chemical engineers actually earn in South Africa, the path from entry to mid-level, and the hourly rate behind those monthly numbers.
Starting pay
R32 000/mo
After 1–2 years
R50 000/mo
Hourly rate
R185–R289/hr
What you'll earn as a junior chemical engineer
- • Most first-year chemical engineers start between R32 000 and R50 000 per month.
- • That works out to roughly R185–R289 per hour on a 40-hour week.
- • Education path: BEng Chemical Engineering + ECSA.
- • Typical experience needed at entry: Plant operations.
- • Within 3–5 years, mid-level pay rises to around R70 000/month.
From entry to mid-level
Within 3–5 years, mid-level chemical engineer pay rises to around R70 000/month - a 119% increase over your starting salary.
See full Chemical Engineer salary guide →