2026 · Entry-level focus

Entry-level Industrial Engineer salary in South Africa

What first-year industrial engineers actually earn in South Africa, the path from entry to mid-level, and the hourly rate behind those monthly numbers.

Starting pay
R26 000/mo
After 1–2 years
R42 000/mo
Hourly rate
R150–R243/hr

What you'll earn as a junior industrial engineer

  • Most first-year industrial engineers start between R26 000 and R42 000 per month.
  • That works out to roughly R150–R243 per hour on a 40-hour week.
  • Education path: BEng / BSc Industrial Engineering.
  • Typical experience needed at entry: Operations.
  • Within 3–5 years, mid-level pay rises to around R60 000/month.

From entry to mid-level

Within 3–5 years, mid-level industrial engineer pay rises to around R60 000/month - a 131% increase over your starting salary.

See full Industrial Engineer salary guide →

Entry-level Industrial Engineer salary by city

Other entry-level careers to compare

See highest paid industrial engineers →How to become a Industrial Engineer