2026 · Entry-level focus

Entry-level Network Engineer salary in South Africa

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

Starting pay
R22 000/mo
After 1–2 years
R38 000/mo
Hourly rate
R127–R220/hr

What you'll earn as a junior network engineer

  • Most first-year network engineers start between R22 000 and R38 000 per month.
  • That works out to roughly R127–R220 per hour on a 40-hour week.
  • Education path: IT networking diploma, degree or vendor certification route.
  • Typical experience needed at entry: Routing.
  • Within 3–5 years, mid-level pay rises to around R58 000/month.

From entry to mid-level

Within 3–5 years, mid-level network engineer pay rises to around R58 000/month - a 164% increase over your starting salary.

See full Network Engineer salary guide →

Entry-level Network Engineer salary by city

Other entry-level careers to compare

See highest paid network engineers →How to become a Network Engineer