Entry-level Geologist salary in South Africa
What first-year geologists actually earn in South Africa, the path from entry to mid-level, and the hourly rate behind those monthly numbers.
Starting pay
R28 000/mo
After 1–2 years
R50 000/mo
Hourly rate
R162–R289/hr
What you'll earn as a junior geologist
- • Most first-year geologists start between R28 000 and R50 000 per month.
- • That works out to roughly R162–R289 per hour on a 40-hour week.
- • Education path: BSc/MSc Geology + SACNASP.
- • Typical experience needed at entry: Mining.
- • Within 3–5 years, mid-level pay rises to around R65 000/month.
From entry to mid-level
Within 3–5 years, mid-level geologist pay rises to around R65 000/month - a 132% increase over your starting salary.
See full Geologist salary guide →