Careers in Engineering in South Africa
Engineering is one of the highest-paid and most in-demand fields in South Africa, spanning civil, mechanical, electrical, chemical, mining and industrial disciplines. The sector includes both professional engineers and the skilled artisan trades that keep industry, mining and infrastructure running.
Registered professional engineers and qualified artisans both appear on the national scarce-skills list.
Typical salary range
R12,000 – R120,000+ per month (artisan to principal engineer)
Qualifications & requirements
- For professional engineering: a recognised BEng/BSc Eng or BTech, and ECSA registration.
- For artisans: a TVET N-course pathway plus an apprenticeship and trade test.
- Matric with strong Mathematics and Physical Science to enter either route.
Entry-level routes
Two main routes: the professional route (engineering degree, then candidate engineer to Pr Eng), and the artisan route (TVET N-courses, apprenticeship, trade test). Learnerships and apprenticeships in mining, manufacturing and Eskom are common entry points.
Career progression
Engineers progress from candidate to professional (Pr Eng), senior, principal and engineering manager. Artisans progress from apprentice to qualified, then to foreman, supervisor and into their own contracting businesses.
Engineering salary guides
Helpful guides
Companies on Edubuzz
Frequently Asked Questions
What engineering jobs are in demand in South Africa?
Electrical, mechanical, civil and mining engineers are in demand, along with qualified artisans such as electricians, millwrights, fitters and welders, all of which appear on the scarce-skills list.
Do I need a degree to work in engineering?
Not always. The professional route needs an engineering degree and ECSA registration, but the artisan route uses TVET N-courses, an apprenticeship and a trade test, and pays well without a degree.
How do I become an artisan?
Study the relevant N-courses at a TVET college, complete an apprenticeship combining theory and workplace training, then pass the trade test to qualify.