Top 20 Weekend Jobs in South Africa

Weekend Jobs in South Africa

South Africa is a nation of more than 60 million people––almost a third of which is “working age”. And it’s easy to understand why. The country’s already robust economy grew slightly at the beginning of 2023––which is not bad considering it is estimated to eclipse Nigeria as Africa’s largest overall economic presence in 2024. With such positivity hitting just about every industry, and an impressive cost of living rate that is comparable to many European nations, there has never been a better time to find a flexible weekend job to supplement one’s income. 

If you live in South Africa and you’re looking to take up a weekend job––that is, not a full-time job, and maybe something a little less flexible than a part-time opportunity––there are plenty of financial reasons to do so. But also, other benefits align with a greater work-life balance and increased workweek flexibility. For whatever your reasons, this article includes the best types of weekend jobs, from all types of industries and skillsets, that you can find in South Africa right now.

The Top 20 Weekend Jobs Available Right Now in South Africa

1. Warehouse Assistant

Scope of work: With the manufacturing boon continuing to thrive in South Africa, warehouse work is one of the easiest and most popular positions for weekend job seekers. From handling fulfillment requests for major retailers to engineering firms; from commercial agencies to automotive facilities, warehouses throughout the country need talented and reliable assistants to facilitate the efficiency of operations. And if you’ve got a Saturday and Sunday free, you can expect some quick and easy cash. 

Salary range: R $26 – $32 per hour

Skills required: Communication, teamwork, observation

2. Personal Assistant (Part-time)

Scope of work: Many high-ranking business professionals, financiers, politicians, and even celebrities in South Africa require the help of a personal assistant on the weekends (many have a weekday assistant and a weekend for managing personal and event arrangements). If you are highly organized and have plenty of charm, you can easily expect to interview for a role working for someone else. 

Salary range: R $32 – $45 per hour

Skills required: Communication, time management, teamwork, negotiation, observation

3. Restaurant Server

Scope of work: Sourcing a serving job in one of South Africa’s many restaurants is a quick and easiest task for those with a free weekend. These types of hospitality roles often come with paid training, flexible hours, and the opportunity to develop interpersonal skills by interacting with interesting people––all while earning a decent wage + tips by taking orders and bringing food to the table.  

Salary range: R $22 – $30 per hour

Skills required: Communication, time management, teamwork, observation, social

4. Call Center Agent

Scope of work: These types of telecom-based professions are in high demand in South Africa since users are always reaching out for information about a product or service. These roles are perfect for a weekend jobseeker with plenty of flexibility and good conversation skills––all you need is a script, a telephone, and a few hours free on your Saturday or Sunday. 

Salary range: R $28 – $33 per hour

Skills required: Communication, time management, teamwork, negotiation

5. Website Tester

Scope of work: A mostly remote job, working as a website tester in South Africa allows for great flexibility and competitive pay. While no formal training is required, testers can take on as many assignments as they can handle––perfect for a weekend! All that is typically expected is a strong internet connection, an updated web browser, and a reliable computer. The rest is mostly self-explanatory. 

Salary range: R $21 – $29 per hour

Skills required: Communication, time management, teamwork, observation, creative

6. Customer Service Representative

Scope of work: South Africa is full of businesses with customer service departments that require skilled professionals to man the desks during the hectic weekend hours. These kinds of jobs need talented people who can manage the overflow of incoming telecommunication questions and give back exceptional customer assistance. If you are willing to work weekends, companies will often provide training and a competitive wage. 

Salary range: R $29 – $37 per hour

Skills required: Communication, time management, teamwork, sales, negotiation

7. Content Writer

Scope of work: Got a flair for writing content for websites, small businesses, ad agencies, and so on…?

Content writer gigs are readily available throughout South Africa, especially online where these types of businesses recruit talented wordsmiths, give them a short writing test and, if you’ve got the goods, you can begin claiming article assignments for clients. 

Salary range: R $32 – $41 per hour

Skills required: Communication, time management, creative

8. Food Delivery Driver

Scope of work: Always a popular position, food delivery drivers are surging in popularity everywhere. There are many apps in South Africa that connect restaurants with customers to help facilitate ordering––and these apps need reliable drivers or delivery people to get the orders to the customer’s door. If you own your own vehicle (or even if you don’t: many platforms let you deliver by scooter, bicycle, or by foot) and have some weekend time to spare, you can supplement your income with some quick cash plus tips. 

Salary range: R $18 – $22 per hour

Skills required: Communication, time management, observation, social

9. Switchboard Operator

Scope of work: Many businesses with customer service desks and departments need the communication skills of a switchboard operator. Luckily, these roles are popular in South Africa and can easily be performed on weekends with minimal experience. 

 Salary range: R $21 – $30 per hour

Skills required: Communication, time management, teamwork, sales, negotiation

10. Healthcare Assistant

Scope of work: Healthcare is a critical industry in Africa––one that requires an extensive amount of time, training, and patience. There is never a shortage of jobs for healthcare professionals, even on the weekends. If you are trained and can spare some time to assist at hospitals or clinics, then you should be able to find work within just about any area of the country. 

Salary range: R $41 – $56 per hour

Skills required: Communication, time management, teamwork, medical, observation

11. Tutor

Scope of work: Much like healthcare, the education industry is essential for the future of South Africa. As such, a knowledgeable tutor with weekends free can expect to find a rewarding part-time job helping nurture young minds. 

Salary range: R $36 – $46 per hour

Skills required: Communication, time management, negotiation, observation

12. Travel Consultant

Scope of work: A popular destination for local and international tourism, South Africa has plenty to showcase. And this is where a weekend travel consultant can make a killing. These roles typically involve assisting clients in making travel arrangements (for business and holiday), sourcing the best pricing and accommodations, not to mention sightseeing and recreation opportunities.

Salary range: R $24 – $36 per hour

Skills required: Communication, time management, teamwork, sales, negotiation

13. Retail Sales Associate

Scope of work: There are many retail locations throughout South Africa, selling apparel, housewares, groceries, and everything in between. These businesses need sales associates to assist on the counters––especially during the busy weekend crowds. 

Salary range: R $26 – $34 per hour

Skills required: Communication, time management, teamwork, negotiation, observation

14. Makeup Artist

Scope of work: The cosmetology industry in South Africa is booming, thanks in part to the many events and cultural celebrations that take place every weekend. This is where talented beauticians can connect with performers or everyday residents to have their makeup done. The better the portfolio, and the more flexible the schedule, the more likely you are to make significant money and great contacts in the industry.  

Salary range: R $28 – $37 per hour

Skills required: Communication, time management, cosmetology

15. Translator

Scope of work: Given the number of native and international languages spoken in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria, and everywhere in between, translators who specialize in English and Afrikaans, are in high demand with companies looking to solve communication barriers associated with foreign investments and purchasing. 

Salary range: R $41 – $58 per hour

Skills required: Communication, time management, observation, language, teamwork

16. Bookkeeper

Scope of work: With a surge in small business growth throughout South Africa, companies are always on the lookout for part-time bookkeepers to help manage their finances and sales figures. If you have a keen eye for detailing and good head for numbers, there is no shortage of opportunities for weekenders with a flexible schedule. 

Salary range: R $33 – $42 per hour

Skills required: Communication, time management, negotiation, observation, finance/mathematics

17. Receptionist

Scope of work: These types of customer service-based roles are important to many businesses that deal with the public––from healthcare to automotive to finance to creative marketing and commerce––you name it, chances are a company in South Africa is looking for a qualified receptionist to work the demanding weekend shift answering phones, booking appointments and receiving guests.  

Salary range: R $26 – $32 per hour

Skills required: Communication, time management, teamwork, negotiation, observation

18. Transcriptionist

Scope of work: An industry that is growing in popularity worldwide, transcriptionists are particularly in high demand in South Africa thanks to the many businesses (many of which ask for no experience) that require written transcriptions of audio/visual sources. If you are really adept at typing and can work seamlessly over the weekends, you’re sure to find a gig that suits your skills and schedule.

Salary range: R $25 – $36 per hour

Skills required: Communication, time management, observation

19. Bartender

Scope of work: Bartenders in South Africa, like in many other parts of the world, can easily find work within one of the hundreds of restaurants throughout the country. If you’ve got a natural flair for slinging suds and crafting cocktails, and boast a flexible schedule, you can definitely earn good pay while interacting with interesting folks of all kinds. 

Salary range: R $16 – $25 per hour

Skills required: Communication, time management, teamwork, observation, social

20. Brand Ambassador

Scope of work: Brand ambassadors are in high demand in South Africa thanks to businesses looking to connect their products and services with younger audiences––especially those on social media. 

This type of weekend gig is a great way to use communication and interpersonal skills to promote brands while earning good pay with minimal experience 

Salary range: R $28 – $39 per hour

Skills required: Communication, time management, teamwork, negotiation

There you have it! The top 20 weekend jobs available in South Africa right now. Whichever industry you choose to pursue, there are plenty of flexible and rewarding positions available for South Africans looking to supplement their income with a casual Saturday or Sunday gig. Now that you have a solid understanding of the types of weekend roles available, including salary and skills required, you should have everything you need to start your search.

Top 30 Most In-Demand Jobs in South Africa

Most In-Demand Jobs in South Africa

Top 30 Most In-Demand Jobs in South Africa

One of the cultural and commercial capitals of the entire African continent, South Africa––with its strong GDP and robust economy––is a one-of-a-kind landscape for job seekers. With its lush, natural rural beauty that blends seamlessly with fast-paced, urban areas of high finance and business––not to mention a fairly low cost of living––the opportunities for finding affordable housing and commuting to a rewarding career are endless.  

When it comes time for you to find work, the best way to set yourself apart from the rest is by getting an idea of the most in-demand jobs in South Africa right now. But before you dive into a job search, consider this: what skills are in high demand in South Africa? Once you have a solid understanding of which industry skills are on the rise, you will be much better prepared come interview time. 

In this article, we’ll tell you about the most important skills needed, and the most in-demand jobs in South Africa.

Which Skills Are in High Demand in South Africa?

1. Information Technology

Interpreting data, and predicting people’s online habits (shopping, streaming video, reading news sources) is an entire industry––and the key players at the forefront of keeping that industry working are those in South Africa’s Information Technology industry.

2. Banking/High Finance

South Africa’s business hubs––Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Cape Town––include some of the continent’s largest financial firms. And despite the damage to key global business markets due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the recovery is strong. As a result, candidates with financial skills are in-demand,

3. Languages

Companies throughout South Africa recognize the importance of hiring candidates with strong language skills, like translators and linguists, to expand their communication platforms beyond the African market.

Industries: Legal, Marketing, Accounting, Education, Publishing

Job titles: Interpreter, Communications Specialist, Translators

4. Computing / Software

Though relatively new to the digital world, South Africa has been a relevant player in the global tech markets for decades. And those businesses need programmers and developers. Specialized software development skills, frequently used by those who know their way around computer programs, are a growing commodity.

5. Engineering

Solid engineering skills (science, mathematics) are highly sought after in South Africa across all types of industries, especially within the infrastructure and environmental sectors, owing to the country’s abundant natural resources. 

Industries: Architecture, Government, City Planning,

Job titles: Agricultural Engineer, Civil Engineering Technologist, Draftsperson

6. Medicine/Nursing

At the height of the global pandemic of 2020, we were reminded of the importance of nurses and medical professionals to our lives (and our economies) –– but especially throughout Africa. While the planet is still reeling from the effects of COVID-19, healthcare in South Africa has taken a hard hit, one from which it will only recover with the right nursing professionals on hand. Post-COVID treatment for those still living with the disease will surely account for thousands of man-hours well into the next decade. 

Industries: Private/Public Healthcare, Tourism, Education

Job titles: Intensive Care Nurse, Midwife, Nurse Practitioner, Hospital Administrator

7. Marketing

A valuable skill set that is always in demand, firms throughout South Africa look for candidates with the marketing tools necessary, like analysing demographics and promoting products, services and ideas to audiences. With pandemic restrictions lessening throughout the continent, and major worldwide progress expected by the end of [year], there is likely to be an increase in growth for well-paying marketing jobs––especially in big cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg and Pretoria.

Industries: Technology, Retail/Wholesale, Hospitality, Tourism

Job titles: SEO Specialist, Digital Marketing Manager, Marketing Editor

8. Customer Service

When individual economies experience hard times, you can often expect rebounds to occur in the form of localised unification and in-spending; when the world economy falls on hard times, the natural rebound occurs in the areas of travel, retail, tourism and hospitality––all of which require dedicated customer service candidates at all levels.

Industries: Retail, Hospitality, Wholesale, Tourism

Job titles: Human Resources Manager, Travel Agent, Company Secretary

Top 30: The Most In-Demand Jobs in South Africa

Average annual salary: R750,000

Job description: South Africa’s supply chain is a delicate industry made up of companies that require skilled candidates to oversee all elements of movement––from distribution to storage––of their materials and products. These highly in-demand positions are vital for the health of local, national, and global markets, which is why they remain so popular. 

Average annual salary: R275,000

Job description: Language skills are some of the easiest to learn, which is why multi-lingual candidates are so valued. An important job in just about any industry where international business connections are developed and nurtured, translators are pivotal to many of South Africa’s businesses and are in very high demand.

Average annual salary: R600,000

Job description: Universal demand for software engineers and architects has grown consistently since the early 2000s. And that growth is also prevalent today in South Africa, where such jobs typically feature flexible schedules and large opportunities for advancement.

Average annual salary: R650,000

Job description: Given South Africa’s lush landscape, naturally rich resources, and opportunities for creating more sustainable farming, agriculture is a booming industry. And the key players involved with this movement are the engineers. These relatively new job titles have been steadily growing in popularity.

Average annual salary: R550,000

Job description: Using machine learning technologies to organize information for start-ups and other firms, a Data Scientist is a key player in any organization. A Data Scientist collects and examines information, analyzing it to make sense of it all. Other tasks include examining the correct data sets or variables, collecting large data sets, and looking at patterns and trends. 

Average annual salary: R350,000

Job description: Accountants work for clients on just about everything accounting-related, including providing tax advice, payroll, and financial accounting assistance. Accountants can work independently or within established financial institutions.

Average annual salary: R275,000

Job description: Companies employ these types of supervisory positions to protect their staff while ensuring that national workplace safety laws are maintained and enforced. As businesses grow across South Africa, this type of important role will always be in-demand.

Average annual salary: R750,000

Job description: Lawyers provide a necessary service to people in need. And the more experienced and knowledgeable a lawyer is, the more they tend to earn. Attorneys who specialize in criminal law, reading wills, buying/selling a property, or putting together contracts are in high demand because of the importance of the work involved.

Average annual salary: R450,000

Job description: There are many different types of engineering work available throughout South Africa, but one of the most in-demand opportunities is in the infrastructure sector. Because of Africa’s rich natural resources and multi-layered landscape, structural engineers need to be on hand to oversee developments at the building of power plants, hydroelectric dams, highways, and bridges.

Average annual salary: R300,000 

Job description: Becoming a medical professional is a strong vocation that requires extensive schooling and practice. Many hospitals across South Africa were short-staffed during the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in the creation of many privately run healthcare facilities. Today, both private and public facilities need nurses from all areas of specialization.  

Average annual salary: R425,000

Job description: Jobs for talented web developers have become more readily available in South Africa since the early tech boom. With this growth forecasting to rise, tech-savvy candidates with strong software and computer skills are consistently valued and will likely continue to be popular and sought-after positions.

Average annual salary: R350,000

Job description: Office Administrators require many different skills, mostly organizational and communication. These key players contribute to a company’s overall structure and can include responsibilities like hiring new staff, departmental training, and overall business coordination. Office Administrator roles are very in-demand.

Average annual salary: R375,000

Job description: A versatile career opportunity in just about any industry, proofreaders are responsible for identifying and correcting inaccuracies and issues in internal and consumer-facing documents. What an audience thinks of the professionalism of a small business is often down to a proofreader. And because a lot of language proficiency falls onto their shoulders, they are usually well-paid. 

Average annual salary: R400,000

Job description: South Africa is experiencing a boom in high finance jobs, specifically investment advisor roles, now that the markets have rebounded from the COVID-19 pandemic. Candidates with strong number-crunching skills who can fill in the gaps for their existing clients are in high demand.  

Average annual salary: R250,000

Job description: Despite the debilitating challenges faced by many secondary school teachers in South Africa, especially those from more remote towns trying to work virtually through a pandemic, the demand for new educators is always in demand, and teachers of children are some of the most popular and appreciated jobs in the country.

Average annual salary: R175,000

Job description: Some people have a natural gift for connecting with others and know just the right words to say to sway their decision-making. Call Center Specialists are heavily in demand throughout South Africa for this very reason they help expedite sales, resolve conflicts, and serve as the consumer face of a company. 

Average annual salary: R550,000

Job description: Number-crunching and interpersonal skills are typically at the top of the list of requirements for Credit Managers, as they are responsible for optimizing sales while overseeing the credit-granting process of a company. The roles are demanding, but they are also well-paid and in high demand across South Africa. 

Average annual salary: R395,000

Job description: These highly in-demand positions require dedicated and skilled candidates to design, plan, develop, and manage construction projects throughout the country––whether it’s the repair of roads, buildings, and railways, or the maintenance of canals, bridges, and coastal systems. Given South Africa’s rural and urban landscapes, these roles remain popular. 

Average annual salary: R450,000 

Job description: The skills required of a Manufacturing or Operations Manager involve construction, planning, strategy, alignment, and customer service––many of which can be easily learned through basic training. And this is perhaps why there is demand for such manufacturing roles throughout South Africa

Average annual salary: R400,000

Job description: As businesses and consumers in South Africa continue to shift towards online shopping, the need for e-commerce specialists, especially at the mid-senior level, remains extremely high. 

Average annual salary: R350,000

Job description: Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers tend to get much of the (deserved) praise, but hospital administrators ensure that healthcare facilities operate smoothly and efficiently so that everybody in need receives help on time. Their roles are heavily important and are very much in demand across South Africa.

Average annual salary: R 500,000 

Job description: Combining high-level encryption and computer science skills, plus extensive math skills used for uncovering answers to questions that help major organizations deliver objective decisions to their base, data analyst roles in South Africa are becoming more and more valuable. Best of all, the skills are transferrable, and the jobs pay great money.

Average annual salary: R295,000

Job description: Pilots are some of the most in-demand positions anywhere in Africa. Commercial airline pilots who fly to international destinations are typically paid more than continental or local-haul pilots, but the training required for all flights is the same. 

Average annual salary: R300,000

Job description: Information Technology (IT) Managers specialize in the deployment and project design of various solutions affecting online areas of a business. These roles also involve organizing structure, setting up departments, and defining policy and procedure.

Average annual salary: R250,000

Job description: Companies with products or services to sell often need to get their information out to customers using memorable and visually appealing methods. This is where a Graphic Designer usually comes in to save the day. These positions are filled by those with great creative flair, physical and computer design skills, and a solid portfolio of powerful work.

Average annual salary: R375,000

Job description: In this digital age, being able to write technical computer languages like Java is one of the most valued skills one can have. Qualified and talented Java Developers are in high demand in South Africa because they use their programming language abilities to design and develop applications and sites. 

Average annual salary: R100,000

Job description: Countless businesses across South Africa require telemarketers to help grow their physical and online sales figures. Telemarketer jobs are highly popular because of the numerous perks, which typically include good pay, remote work opportunities, and provided training. 

Average annual salary: R320,000

Job description: Brokers are responsible for overseeing the investment portfolios of clients. They use market research and trends to advise clients (individuals or corporations) on how to best manage their money. 

Average annual salary: R200,000

Job description: Resolving customer issues and complaints takes a strong amount of analytical and communication skills––not to mention being a dedicated people person. Customer support may not be for everyone, but the work is rewarding, and South Africa has many specialist roles available. 

Average annual salary: R225,000

Job description: Content creators are performers, editors, and writers who have extensive SEO experience and just happen to be very sought after based on a particular point of interest. Whether creating shoppable videos on TikTok and YouTube, posting valuable live streams on Instagram, or hosting your own podcast, if you can attract an audience and encourage them to engage with you, you can make good money.

The Most In-Demand Jobs in South Africa

There you have it! The most in-demand skills and jobs in South Africa. As the country’s workforce continues to evolve, certain job skills will become more sought-after, and filling certain positions will become more important. Be sure to stand out from all other candidates –– know where the demand is highest in South Africa while brushing up on the most popular job skills. And you’re sure to succeed.

Photo by Kyle-Philip Coulson on Unsplash

How to Land a Virtual Assistant Job in South Africa

an open laptop on a desk with a slogan on screen Feature Image For: How to Land a Virtual Assistant Job in South Africa

Over the last few years, there’s been a major increase in the number of virtual jobs that can be done anywhere, even from home. In fact, globally, 62 percent of workers aged 22-65 work from home at least occasionally, and 16 percent of companies have all employees working remotely. 

Working from home is a great arrangement for those who require extra flexibility in their schedules (students, stay-at-home parents, those who work other jobs) as well as those with disabilities who have a hard time leaving the house. People who have virtual jobs also save on a lot of the costs associated with traditional work, including the cost of fuel and the cost of buying clothing for the office. 

Online virtual assistant jobs are particularly appealing to those who want to work from home but also thrive in highly organized, detail-oriented positions. Those who are great at maintaining order and have a knack for communicating orally and in writing often perform very well in virtual assistant roles. 

Do you think you want to be a virtual assistant? Are you curious about what the job entails or where to search for openings? Did remote work become a thing now?

Read on to learn about the benefits of having a virtual assistant job in South Africa. You’ll also find out what skills a virtual assistant needs, where to look for virtual assistant positions, and which companies in South Africa are currently looking for a work-from-home assistant. Your job search is about to get a lot easier.

Why Work as an Online Remote Assistant?

There are lots of reasons to seek out a job as an online virtual assistant (also known as a virtual PA or secretary). If you’re considering this type of job but aren’t 100 percent sure how to set up a remote work career it’s for you, consider these 5 perks:

1. Work Anywhere

As a virtual assistant, you can do your job virtually (no pun intended) anywhere. If you want to work from home, you can. If you prefer to work at a coffee shop or coworking space, you’re free to do so.

As long as you have a good internet connection and it’s easy for your boss/clients to get in touch with you, you can generally do your job wherever you’d like.  

2. Flexible Schedule

It’s true that some virtual assistant jobs do require you to adhere to a stricter 9-5 schedule. However, many of them offer a great deal of flexibility when it comes to when you do your job.

These types of positions are perfect for those with busy or unpredictable schedules (parents, students, etc.). With this kind of remote work setup, bosses and clients typically don’t mind when you work as long as you get tasks done correctly and by their deadlines.

3. No Dress Code

As a virtual assistant, you don’t have to adhere to a strict office dress code. There’s no need to worry about putting on a dress and heels or slacks and a tie every day.

You may want to wear a nice shirt for days when you have to jump on video calls. Other than that, though, you’re pretty much free to wear whatever you want. 

4. Low Startup Costs

You don’t need a ton of fancy or expensive equipment to start working as a virtual assistant. Most positions just require you to have a computer, a solid internet connection, and a reliable mobile phone.

If you have these three things, you have everything you need to launch your remote assistant career and keep your boss or clients happy.

5. Interesting and Impactful Work

Finally, a job as a virtual assistant gives you a chance to do interesting and impactful work each day.

Virtual PAs get an inside look at how all kinds of professionals run their businesses. It can be fascinating to see how things get done and how different people process and plan.

You also get to make a difference when you take on this job. With your skills and talents, you’re making someone else’s life easier and helping them to run their company more smoothly, which allows them to better serve their other employees and customers. How rewarding is that?

What Skills Should Virtual Assistants Have?

As with any job, there are certain skills, traits, and strategies that a good virtual admin assistant must possess. Here are 10 of the top hard and soft skills that the best virtual secretary will have:

1. Reliability

If you want to make a career out of virtual assisting, you need to be a reliable professional. 

Even though you’re working from home and (likely) have a flexible schedule, it’s still important that you are responsive to emails and phone calls and can get tasks completed in a timely manner. If your boss or clients can’t rely on you, you won’t last very long in this position.

2. Communication Skills

Virtual assistants must be good communicators — both written and oral.

Whether you’re sending emails on your boss’s behalf or making calls to schedule appointments for clients, you need to be a competent, polite, and professional communicator. Otherwise, you’re reflecting poorly on your boss/client, which is not a good way to retain a job.

3. Time Management Skills

Virtual assistants often have a lot of control over their schedules. However, they still need to be good at managing their time to meet deadlines and stay organized. If you’re someone who procrastinates a lot or loses track of time easily, you might not be a good fit for a remote assistant position. 

4. Resourcefulness

A remote PA job requires you to be resourceful and a creative problem-solver.

Your boss or clients pay you to figure out solutions and make their lives easier. Sometimes, you have to think outside of the box to make this happen.

If you are a good problem-solver and are willing to go above and beyond to get results, you’ll be a great fit for a virtual assistant role.

5. Organizational Skills

Good organizational skills are non-negotiable for a virtual assistant.

If you take on this role, you’re responsible for helping people keep track of their appointments, stay on top of their schedule, file documents, and more. All of these tasks require great organizational skills and attention to detail. 

6. Basic Computer Skills

If you’re going to work remotely as a secretary or personal assistant, you’re going to need at least basic computer skills. If you don’t know your way around an email inbox, a virtual calendar, etc., you will have a hard time handling the basic responsibilities associated with a virtual assistant job.

7. Typing Skills

In addition to basic computer skills, you’ll also need above-average typing skills.

Many virtual assistant jobs require a great deal of typing, from writing emails and taking notes during meetings and conference calls to handling data entry projects. If you’re not a fast typer, or if you make a lot of mistakes, you may need to take a few typing classes before you venture into the virtual assistant field.

8. Multitasking Skills

Any type of personal assistant/receptionist/secretarial type job, including remote jobs, require multitasking skills.

As an assistant, you will have a lot of irons in the fire at all times, and you’ll need to be able to keep all these different tasks and projects straight without losing your cool. If you’re good at jumping back and forth from assignment to assignment and don’t need a lot of oversight and direction, you’re well-suited to a job as a virtual assistant. 

9. Data Entry Skills

Many remote assistant jobs require a lot of data entry work. You may need to transport data from one document to another, or you may need to listen to audio recordings and precisely extract data from them. If you have previous data entry experience, you’ll likely be a good fit for a virtual assistant position. 

10. Basic Accounting Skills

Finally, some virtual assistant positions require basic accounting skills. This is especially true if you are working on a freelance or contract basis with multiple clients.

For these types of jobs, you will need to handle your own financial management, including taking out money for taxes, writing off expenses, and more. If you have some basic accounting or bookkeeping experience, you will have an easier time handling this aspect of the job and will find it to be a more sustainable career path.

Best 9 Virtual Assistant Websites for Job Searching

Are you ready to start looking for a remote assistant job in South Africa? If so, here are 9 great websites you can check out to find openings that align with your salary needs, schedule, and other job goals:

GrabJobs is a mobile-friendly, innovative job search portal. It connects thousands of job seekers with their ideal employers every day and is the perfect place to begin your hunt for the perfect virtual assistant position.

GrabJobs is extremely user-friendly and makes the job search process easier than ever. It even allows you to filter jobs based on a long list of criteria so you can find a position that lines up with all your needs and goals.

LinkedIn South Africa is both a job search website and a professional social networking site. Not only can you use it to search for open virtual assistant positions in South Africa, but you can also use it to connect with other professionals who may be looking for an assistant now or in the future.

Glassdoor is a global job search site that features listings from employers all over the world — including South Africa.

Glassdoor is also a unique site because it allows you to read reviews about employers from current and previous employees. This is a great way to learn about the work experience for a particular company or individual before you agree to partner with them.

Careerjet is an easy-to-use job site that simplifies the process of finding virtual assistant jobs in South Africa. This straightforward job site allows you to quickly search for openings based on location, job type, and more, so you’ll find listings that match your needs in no time.

Pnet is known as South Africa’s number 1 job site. This is a great site for finding jobs of all kinds, and with its easy-to-navigate filters, you can easily streamline your search to look exclusively for remote assistant positions.

Recruit.net is a job search engine that helps you find a wide range of job opportunities (including virtual assistant positions) in your area.

You can use this site to narrow your search based on job type, company, and more. Tens of thousands of jobs get uploaded every day, too, so it’s not hard to find something that’s a good fit for your needs and career goals.

Ananzi is a multi-faceted search engine that features South African classified ads, plus job listings from South African businesses and professionals. If you’re looking for a remote assistant job, particularly a freelance or contractor assistant job, you’ll likely find plenty of options posted on this site. 

SimplyHired is a job search engine that helps millions of people find jobs every day.

This site features postings from companies all over the world, including many in South Africa. It’s easy to navigate and allows you to quickly upload resumes and CVs, too, which helps you to showcase your skills and get hired faster. 

Upwork is one of the most well-known job search sites for freelancers and independent contractors from across the globe. If you want to work as a virtual assistant in South Africa on a freelance or contract basis, you’ll find plenty of opportunities listed on Upwork.

It’s also easy to use Upwork to narrow your search based on a variety of factors, including pay rate and job type, so you can quickly find options that work well for you and help you meet your distinct career goals. 

Top 7 Online Virtual Assistant Jobs in South Africa

GrabJobs is one of the best virtual assistant websites. It’s easy to navigate, free, and features tons of great virtual admin assistant listings for job seekers in South Africa.

Here are the top 7 work from home assistant positions currently listed on GrabJobs that you might want to consider applying for:

This is a part-time virtual assistant job that requires you to work 20 days per month. No experience is required, and this is an excellent option for fresh graduates. Pay ranges from R15 – R75 per hour.

This is a home-based, full-time virtual assistant job. At least 5 years of experience as a PA/ Executive PA are required, as well as 2 years of experience as a virtual assistant. Pay ranges from R20 000 – R25 000 per month.

This is a remote, full-time virtual assistant job. Like the previous listing, it requires 5 years of experience as a personal assistant or executive personal assistant, along with 2 years of virtual assistant experience. No salary information is provided.

This is a full-time personal assistant/executive assistant position. It is a remote job, but there may be some in-office work required from time to time. Relevant industry experience is required for all applicants. Salary ranges from R15 000 – R20 000 per month.  

This is a full-time remote assistant job with strict hours (weekdays 08:00 to 16:00). The person who fills this position will work with the company’s human resources department to assist with a variety of organizational tasks and keep things running smoothly. Salary ranges from R16,000 – 24,000 per month.

This is a full-time remote personal assistant job. All applicants must have a diploma or degree in administrations, public relations, or communications. They must have 7-10 years of experience in a related field, too. No salary information is provided.

Another option for a work-from-home assistant position is this full-time virtual assistant job. It requires education up to Grade 12 (matric), and experience in fashion or marketing is a bonus. At least 3 years of experience as a virtual assistant is advantageous, too.  No salary information is provided.

Find a Virtual Assistant Job Today

Now that you know more about what a virtual assistant job entails, as well as the specific skills a remote assistant must possess, do you think you’re a good fit for this position?

If you want to work as a virtual secretary or virtual PA, be sure to check out the best virtual assistant websites listed above, especially GrabJobs.

There are tons of openings available for job seekers in South Africa, and new ones are popping up every day. Now is the perfect time to be a virtual assistant!  

The Complete South Africa Salary Guide [year]

South Africa Salary Guide

In 2020, South Africa’s employment rate hit a startling low of 36.25 percent. It started to recover in 2021, rising to 38 percent and is expected to continue improving in 2022. Experts forecast an employment rate of 41.30 percent in 2022 and 43 percent in 2023.

For those who have been searching South African job sites and looking for in-demand jobs in this country, things are finally starting to look up. Before you start applying for the highest-paying jobs in South Africa, though, it’s important to have a more thorough understanding of the average salary here so you can set realistic expectations.

This South Africa salary guide will teach you everything you need to know about the average salary in South Africa, as well as the skills you need to develop to increase your chances of getting hired in [year].

South Africa Salary Guide

One of the easiest ways to learn about the average salary in South Africa (or in any other country, for that matter) is to use the GrabJobs Local Salary Guide Tool.

This tool allows you to learn the average salary range for various jobs throughout South Africa. It also provides links to job listings so you can easily apply for the positions that interest you. 

Using the GrabJobs Local Salary Guide Tool will help you to streamline your job search and avoid applying for jobs that pay less than what you want to earn. It can also help you know what to expect (as far as salaries go) when you start searching for job listings in your area.

What Is The Average Salary in South Africa?

The average salary in South Africa is approximately 683,421 ZAR per year. However, the most typical salary in South Africa is 245,409 ZAR per year. 

An employee’s expected salary range in South Africa can, understandably, vary quite a bit depending on the position they hold and the amount of experience they have in a specific field. 

To help you get a better understanding of what you can expect to earn in South Africa, here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular jobs in South Africa, complete with average salary ranges, top companies hiring, and career prospects: 

What Are The Expected Salary Ranges For Jobs In South Africa?

  • Expected Salary Range: R 140K to R 550K per year
  • Top Companies Hiring in South Africa: Amazon, Yellow, Takealot
  • Career Prospects: The tech industry is growing rapidly in South Africa (and throughout the world), so prospects look great for developers who can help businesses grow and become more modernized.
  • Expected Salary Range: R 49K to R 237K per year
  • Top Companies Hiring in South Africa: Double Bloom, Wagworld, Giordano South Africa
  • Career Prospects: There will always be a need for skilled sales reps across all industries. Because of this, prospects for this career look promising now and in the future.
  • Expected Salary Range: R 180K to R 3.6M per year 
  • Top Companies Hiring in South Africa: The Hunted, Ello Recruitment, Old Mutual South Africa
  • Career Prospects: Financial advisors can be valuable team members to businesses of all kinds, and they can also help individuals looking for investment guidance, so there’s a lot of opportunity throughout South Africa for these professionals.
  • Expected Salary Range: R 120K to R 460K per year
  • Top Companies Hiring in South Africa: Shotcrete Africa, Infobip, Mazars in South Africa
  • Career Prospects: As is the case for financial advisors, there’s a lot of demand for accountants who can help businesses and individuals handle their money and stay on top of everyday money management-related tasks.
  • Expected Salary Range: R 170K to R 690K per year
  • Top Companies Hiring in South Africa: Intercon, AECOM, Tumaini Consulting
  • Career Prospects: South Africa has growing infrastructure demands, which means there are lots of opportunities for civil engineers to contribute and make a name for themselves within the industry.
  • Expected Salary Range: R 170K to R 690K per year
  • Top Companies Hiring in South Africa: LCL Construction, Innovtech Projects, Ultimate Dynamic
  • Career Prospects: There’s a growing demand for construction workers to assist with various projects in South Africa. There’s also a strong need for construction managers who can oversee these teams and ensure projects are handled correctly.
  • Expected Salary Range: R 345K to R 4.1M per year
  • Top Companies Hiring in South Africa: City Property Administration, Cederburg Municipality, Kheeran Group
  • Career Prospects: As more construction projects take place throughout South Africa, there will also be a stronger demand for building inspectors to ensure everything was designed and built properly, so prospects for this career look very good.
  • Expected Salary Range: R 73K to R410K per year
  • Top Companies Hiring in South Africa: NSC Global, Initiate International, Pro Talent
  • Career Prospects: As the economy recovers and businesses continue to grow in South Africa, recruiters will play an important role in streamlining the hiring process and helping companies find the right people for each job opening.
  • Expected Salary Range: R 130K to R 580K per year
  • Top Companies Hiring in South Africa: Salt South Africa, Carlysle, Magnetic Creative
  • Career Prospects: Marketing specialists will play a key role in 2022 and beyond when it comes to helping businesses expand their reach, build a bigger audience, and increase conversions. 
  • Expected Salary Range: R 59K to R 260K per year
  • Top Companies Hiring in South Africa: Amazon, Webhelp, Clickatell, Ciazcon
  • Career Prospects: Growing businesses throughout South Africa can benefit from skilled customer support specialists to help them keep customers happy and loyal, so prospects for jobs in this field look very good moving forward.

What Is the Average Salary Across Industries in South Africa in [year]?

Beyond these common careers in South Africa, you may also be interested in learning more about the expected salary range in South Africa for other professions in various industries. This table details the average salary range for several different positions:

Profession

Average Salary in South Africa

Accountant

R 120K to R 460K per year

Finance Manager

R 65K to R 130K per year

Sales Manager

R 250K to R 900K per year

Business Development Manager

R 180K to R 840K per year

Chief Executive Officer

R 86K to R 260K per year

Chief Finance Officer

R 290K to R 2.5M per year

General Manager

R 120K to R 1.2M per year

Legal Assistant

R 49K to R 370K per year

Customer Service Manager

R 140K to  R 600K per year

Human Resource Manager

R 170K to R 760K per year

Construction Manager

R 450K to R 914K per year

Hospitality/Hotel Manager

R 16K to R 280K per year

Tourism/Travel Agent

R 16K to R 240K per year

IT Manager

R 180K to R 950K per year

Graphic Designer

R 78K to R 300K per year

Civil Engineer

R 170K to R 690K per year

Electrical Engineer

R 150K to R 810K per year

Mechanical Engineer

R 160K to R 720K per year

Aerospace Engineer

R 290K to R 1.5M per year

Architecture Engineer

R 379K to R 660K per year

What Else Should I Know About Salaries in South Africa?

Our South Africa salary guide wouldn’t be complete if we didn’t also address some frequently asked questions regarding salaries in South Africa. Discussed below are some other important matters to consider when looking for a job in this country:

What Is the Cost of Living in South Africa?

The cost of living in South Africa is quite a bit lower than it is in other parts of the world. In fact, it’s cheaper to live here than 54 percent of other countries.

However, South Africa is also the most expensive African country to live in, so those who are planning to move here from other parts of the continent should keep that in mind.

The estimated monthly expenses for a family of 4 in South Africa is R 39,884. For a single person, estimated monthly expenses are around R 20,050.

How Much Will I Pay In Income Taxes in South Africa?

Income tax rates in South Africa vary depending on one’s total income for the year. In the [year] tax year, tax brackets will be divided as follows:

  • R 1 to R 216,200: 18 percent of taxable income
  • R 216,201 to R 337,800: R 38,916 + 26 percent of taxable income above R 216,200
  • R 337,801 to R 467,500: R 70,532 + 31 percent of taxable income above R 337,800
  • R 467,501 to R 613,600: R 110,739 + 36 percent of taxable income above R 467,500
  • R 613,601 to R 782,200: R 163,335 + 39 percent of taxable income above R 613,600
  • R 782,201 to R 1,656,600: R 229,089 + 41 percent of taxable income above R 782,200
  • R 1,656,601 and above: R 587,593 + 45 percent of taxable income above R 1,656,600

What Benefits Do South African Employers Offer?

For full-time employees, South African employers are required to provide the following benefits:

  • Unemployment insurance contributions
  • Skills development levy contributions
  • Compensation for occupational injuries and diseases

Many employers offer additional benefits, too, such as paid leave or healthcare coverage.

How Can I Work In South Africa As A Foreigner?

If you’re looking for jobs in South Africa as a foreigner, you’re likely wondering what kinds of permits you need to legally work in this country. Foreign workers in South Africa need a valid work visa.

To get a work visa, they must have first received a job offer from a potential employer. Furthermore, they cannot start working until they’ve received said visa. 

The only exception to this rule is those who receive a critical skills work visa. This visa is for those who have skills that have been deemed critical and needed in South Africa to boost the country’s economy.

South Africa Salary Guide: Final Thoughts

Hopefully, our South Africa salary guide was helpful to you and will make your job search easier. Keep this information in mind so you can find options for jobs in South Africa that provide a good salary and a strong sense of security.

If you need more help finding jobs in South Africa, check out the free GrabJobs search tool. Like our salary guide tool, this feature makes it easy for you to find listings in your area that check all your boxes. Give it a try today.

Top 30 High-Paying Careers for Women in South Africa (with Salary)

jobs for women in South Africa

Women currently account for approximately 43.8 percent of the workforce in South Africa, and only 32 percent of managers in South African businesses are women.

Finding high-paying employment for women in South Africa can be challenging, especially when the country’s widening gender pay gap is factored into the equation. The good news, though, is that there are still good jobs to be found, especially as new legislation is rolled out to try and address income inequality between men and women.

This guide to the top careers for women in South Africa is a great starting point for women who want to earn a high salary and find a rewarding, high-growth job.

We have other guides on our website that provide insight into the highest paying jobs in South Africa, as well as the country’s most in-demand jobs, but this guide is geared specifically toward women who are looking to reenter the workforce or make a career change.

What Are the Top 10 High-Paying Careers for Women Working in South Africa?

When they start searching for top careers for women in South Africa, one of the first things job seekers take into account is their salary and earning potential. If you’re looking for the top high-paying careers for women in South Africa, this list of 10 great options is an excellent starting point:

Job Description: Pharmacists fill prescriptions and offer advice on medication usage to pharmacy customers. 

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: This is one of the top high-paying careers for women in South Africa because it requires an advanced degree and comes with a lot of responsibility.

Average Salary: R560,000 per year

Job Description: Nurse practitioners coordinate patient care, write prescriptions, and work independently or alongside physicians. 

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: For women who want a high-paying position in the healthcare field but don’t want to spend as much time in school as physicians, this is a good alternative.

Average Salary: R490,000 per year

Job Description: Information system managers analyze, coordinate, and oversee various IT-related projects.

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: The tech field isn’t particularly female-dominated right now, but more women are pursuing tech-related careers every day, and this is a good one to work toward because it comes with a high salary and a lot of responsibility.

Average Salary: R570,000 per year

Job Description: Lawyers are responsible for advising and representing clients in court.

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: For women who have a passion for the law, want to earn a high salary, and aren’t afraid of spending a lot of time in school, a career as a lawyer is an excellent choice. 

Average Salary: R606,000 per year

Job Description: Engineers specialize in a variety of disciplines (civil engineering, mechanical engineering, etc.) and design and oversee various projects within those fields. 

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: If you’re looking for South Africa jobs for women with high salary, a career in engineering is an excellent choice that also gives you an opportunity to pave the way for more women in the engineering industry.

Average Salary: R620,000 per year

Job Description: Human resources managers work for various organizations and oversee personnel matters like hiring, onboarding, and firing.

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: For women who want to work in the business sector, a career as a human resources manager is one that offers a high salary and lots of opportunities to support others.

Average Salary: R620,000 per year

Job Description: Physicians are in charge of diagnosing and treating patients in hospitals and clinics.

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: A career in the healthcare field is one of the highest-paying options for women in South Africa, and working as a physician is one of the highest-paying options within this industry.

Average Salary: R1,550,647 per year

Job Description: Software engineers are responsible for designing and developing software programs for various organizations. 

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: A career as a software engineer is a good fit for women who want to work in the tech world and need to get a foot in the door.

Average Salary: R371,058 per year

Job Description: Accountants work with individuals and businesses to help them manage their money and make wise financial decisions.

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: For financially savvy women, a career as an accountant is a good one to strive for, especially if you’re looking for a high salary and lots of job options.

Average Salary: R275,218 per year

Job Description: IT managers oversee IT-related matters for various organizations.

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: A career as an IT manager is another good option for those looking for South Africa jobs for women with high salary. It offers a lot of job stability and provides an opportunity to lead a team.

Average Salary: R491,999 per year

What Are the Top 10 High-Growth Careers for Women Working in South Africa?

In addition to a high salary, most women also want to find a job in a quickly growing field. These types of jobs often offer more security, as well as room for promotions in the future.

Here’s a list of the top 10 high-growth careers for women in South Africa to consider:

Job Description: Web and software developers designing and developing websites, apps, software programs, and other, similar technologies. 

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: The tech industry is booming in South Africa, which means there are lots of job opportunities, and lots of growth opportunities, for women in this country.

Average Salary: R183,736 per year

Job Description: Medical and health services managers are responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating services for hospitals and clinics.

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: This is a rapidly growing field in South Africa, particularly for women who want to work in healthcare but don’t want to work directly with patients.

Average Salary: R280,000 per year

Job Description: Post-secondary school teachers instruct students in universities and colleges. 

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: Teaching is a great career path for women in South Africa, and there are lots of openings at the post-secondary level for those who want to earn higher salaries.

Average Salary: R676,144 per year

Job Description: Nurses work alongside physicians to care for patients. 

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: Nursing is a popular career option for women in South Africa, and there’s a particularly high demand for skilled nurses here right now.

Average Salary: R247,166 per year

Job Description: Financial managers work with businesses and individual clients to help them make appropriate investment and money management decisions. 

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: This is one of the top jobs for women in South Africa who want to work in finance because the demand for professionals in this field is growing quickly.

Average Salary: R526,873 per year

Job Description: Personal care aides support those who are ill or injured to help them manage activities of daily living more easily.

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: There’s a high demand in South Africa for personal care aides right now, and this is a good career option for women who want to earn a good salary but don’t have a lot of job experience.  

Average Salary: R114,558 per year

Job Description: Statisticians collect and review data to help businesses make wise choices for the future.

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: For women who have a background in statistics or mathematics, there’s a lot of demand in South Africa right now for statisticians.

Average Salary: R348,224 per year

Job Description: Physical therapist aides work with physical therapists to help them support patients in their recovery.

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: There’s a strong need for physical therapy aides in South Africa right now, making this a good career option for women looking to gain experience in the field. 

Average Salary: R117,080 per year

Job Description: Occupational therapist aides work with occupational therapists to help them support patients as they learn to perform activities of daily living independently. 

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: There’s a lot of demand for occupational therapists and aides in South Africa right now, so plenty of jobs are available. 

Average Salary: R214,160 per year

Job Description: Dental hygienists work with dentists to help them care for patients’ teeth and gums.

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: This is one of the most in-demand and best jobs for women in South Africa, especially those who want to work in and learn about the dentistry field.

Average Salary: R440,562 per year

What Are the Top 10 Most Rewarding Careers for Women Working in South Africa?

Of course, in addition to earning a good salary and enjoying a certain amount of growth potential, most women also want to work in a job that’s rewarding and makes them feel as though they’re making a difference in someone else’s life.

If this sounds relevant to you, the following are 10 of the most rewarding careers for women working in South Africa to consider pursuing:

Job Description: Systems developers develop and implement programs for backend testing.

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: This is one of the best jobs for women in South Africa who want to play an important role in the software development process.

Average Salary: R450,000 per year

Job Description: Business development executives work with various companies to help them improve practices and profitability.

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: For business-savvy women, a career as a business development executive is highly rewarding.

Average Salary: R1,567,276 per year

Job Description: Research assistants work in labs and other facilities to help researchers carry out various projects. 

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: For women who are passionate about learning and research, a career as a research assistant is very fulfilling. 

Average Salary: R186,857 per year

Job Description: Education administrators are in charge of running schools, managing teachers, and balancing budgets.

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: For women who are passionate about education but also want to earn a higher salary, this career is a great choice.

Average Salary: R737,408 per year

Job Description: Nurses work alongside physicians to care for patients. 

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: For women who love to help others feel better, nursing is a very rewarding career.

Average Salary: R247,166 per year

Job Description: CEOs sit at the head of various companies and oversee various everyday and big picture decisions.

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: For women who are business-minded and want to start their own companies, a career as a CEO offers a lot of fulfillment.

Average Salary: R1,277124 per year

Job Description: Recruiting managers help businesses to hire the right people for open positions.

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: Many women find that they take a lot of pride in overseeing recruitment for various companies, making this a rewarding career.

Average Salary: R416,279 per year

Job Description: Marketing assistants work alongside other marketers and managers to create campaigns and promote businesses. 

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: Women in South Africa often find careers as marketing assistants to be very fulfilling and enjoyable.

Average Salary: R144,771 per year

Job Description: Human resources coordinators help human resources managers with hiring, onboarding, personnel management, and more.

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: This is a rewarding career for women who want to gain experience in the HR field.

Average Salary: R158,264 per year

Job Description: Financial consultants work with businesses to help them assess their finances and make good investments for the future. 

Why Is it a Top Career for Women in South Africa: This is one of the best careers for women in South Africa who want to work in the financial sector and feel that they’re making a difference to other businesses in the area.

Average Salary: R148,134 per year

How to Get Started in One of the Top Careers for Women in South Africa?

If you want to increase your chances of landing one of the top jobs for women in South Africa, there are some specific steps you’ll want to take when filling out your job application and attending job interviews. Here are some essential ones to keep in mind:

Update and Proofread Your CV

If it’s been a while since you last looked over your CV, now is a great time to do so. Go over it with a fine-tooth comb and make any necessary updates to your education or job experience.

Consider Taking Skills Courses Before Applying

If you’re lacking some of the in-demand skills for high-paying jobs in South Africa, it may be a good idea to take a course or two before you apply. This can help you feel more confident when applying for jobs that are outside of your wheelhouse.

Make Sure You Can Legally Work in South Africa

If you want to work in South Africa as a foreigner, you will need a work visa. Before you can be approved for this visa, your potential employer must have extended a job offer.

The only exception to this rule is if you are applying for a critical skills visa. This visa is offered to those whose skills and experience are considered to be needed in South Africa.

Final Thoughts on the Top Careers for Women in South Africa

Are you ready to apply for one of the top careers for women in South Africa? Is it time to sharpen your skills and get ready for your upcoming job interviews?

Remember the information discussed above so you can make a great first impression and get hired in no time.

If you need more help preparing for job interviews or finding job listings that check all your boxes, the GrabJobs search tool can help. Check it out today to simplify the job-seeking process.

Top 20 Highest Paying Jobs in South Africa

Highest Paying Jobs in South Africa

South Africa’s GDP per capita took a serious hit in 2020, falling all the way to 6748.23 USD (down from 7345.96 USD the year before). Things are looking up slightly this year, though, and the country’s GDP per capita is expected to reach 7080.00 USD by the end of 2021.

With the economy starting to slowly but surely recover from the effects of COVID-19, the future looks a bit brighter for job-seekers in South Africa.

Are you looking for a job after being out of work for a while? Are you a student who wants to choose a career path that will set you up for long-term success and financial stability?

Either way, this guide to the highest-paying jobs in South Africa is a great starting point. It’ll help you see what kinds of jobs you should be pursuing if a high salary is at the top of your priority list.

What Salary Is Considered Rich in South Africa?

What kind of salary do the best-paid jobs in South Africa yield? What kind of income do you need to earn to be considered “rich” in this country?

The average salary in South Africa is approximately 23,122 ZAR per month or 277,464 ZAR per year. The lowest average salary in South Africa is around 7,880 ZAR per month, and the highest average salary is around 139,000 ZAR per month.

To be considered rich in South Africa, you would need to bring in a salary that’s quite a bit higher than the country’s average.

If your annual salary was at or above 300,000 ZAR per year, you’d likely be able to live quite comfortably. Furthermore, the closer you can get to the 1,000,000+ ZAR mark, the better off you’ll be.

What Is the #1 Highest-Paid Position in South Africa?

To earn a higher-than-average salary and live comfortably, you’ll need to land one of the best-paid jobs in South Africa.

Of all the high-paying jobs in the country, the number one highest-paying position is, not surprisingly, in the medical field. Specialist doctors (such as cardiologists, neurologists, etc.) earn the most money in South Africa, with an average yearly salary of 1,600,000 ZAR.

Of course, experience plays a big role in the actual salary a specialist doctor will take home. For example, a new cardiologist who just graduated from medical school will only earn around 730,000 ZAR per year (which is still quite a bit higher than the average salary in South Africa).

After they’ve been practicing for a few years, though, they can earn even more than the average 1,600,000 per year, with some specialist doctors earning well over 2,000,000 ZAR annually.

If a career as a specialist doctor doesn’t seem like the right approach for you, there are plenty of other well-paid positions to consider in South Africa. The following are 20 of the country’s highest-paying jobs, in order from lowest to highest salary:

20. Financial Advisor

Financial Advisor Average Annual Salary: 300,000 ZAR Per Year

👉 Browse Financial Advisor Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

19. IT Manager

IT Manager Average Annual Salary: 315,000 ZAR Per Year

👉 Browse IT Manager Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

18. Sales Manager

Sales Manager Average Annual Salary: 317,000 ZAR Per Year

👉 Browse Sales Manager Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

17. Lawyer

Lawyer Average Annual Salary: 326,000 ZAR Per Year

👉 Browse Lawyer Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

16. Fashion Designer

Fashion Designer Average Annual Salary: 339,000 ZAR Per Year

👉 Browse Fashion Designer Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

15. Aerospace Technician

Aerospace Technician Average Annual Salary: 387,000 ZAR Per Year

👉 Browse Aerospace Technician Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

14. Digital Marketing Specialist

Digital Marketing Specialist Average Annual Salary: 399,000 ZAR Per Year

👉 Browse Digital Marketing Specialist Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

13. Biomedical Engineer

Biomedical Engineer Average Annual Salary: 420,000 ZAR Per Year

👉 Browse Biomedical Engineer Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

12. Commercial Pilot

Commercial Pilot Average Annual Salary: 450,000 ZAR Per Year

👉 Browse Commercial Pilot Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

11. Legal Advisor

Legal Advisor Average Annual Salary: 454,000 ZAR Per Year

👉 Browse Legal Advisor Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

10. Pharmacist

Pharmacist Average Annual Salary: 487,000 ZAR Per Year

👉 Browse Pharmacist Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

9. Cybersecurity Engineer

Cybersecurity Engineer Average Annual Salary: 503,000 ZAR Per Year

👉 Browse Cybersecurity Engineer Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

8. Software Engineer

Software Engineer Average Annual Salary: 509,000 ZAR Per Year

👉 Browse Software Engineer Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

7. Petroleum Engineer

Petroleum Engineer Average Annual Salary: 572,000 ZAR Per Year

👉 Browse Petroleum Engineer Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

6. Chartered Accountant

Chartered Accountant Average Annual Salary: 605,000 ZAR Per Year

👉 Browse Chartered Accountant Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

5. Architect

Architect Average Annual Salary: 715,000,000 ZAR Per Year

👉 Browse Architect Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

4. Chief Financial Officer

Chief Financial Officer Average Annual Salary: 780,000 ZAR Per Year

👉 Browse Chief Financial Officer Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

3. Judge

Judge Average Annual Salary: 825,000 ZAR Per Year

👉 Browse Judge Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

2. Actuarial Scientist

Actuarial Scientist Average Annual Salary: 920,000 ZAR Per Year

👉 Browse Actuarial Scientist Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

1. Specialist Doctor

Specialist Doctor Average Annual Salary: 1,600,000 ZAR Per Year

👉 Browse Specialist Doctor Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

Top 5 Highest-Paying Industries in South Africa

As is the case throughout the world, certain industries in South Africa tend to pay quite a bit more than others. The following are 5 of the highest-paying industries in South Africa that you might want to consider working in if a good salary is important to you:


1. Healthcare

The healthcare industry is easily one of the highest-paying industries in South Africa. Not only are specialist doctors well-paid, but so are other medical professionals like pharmacists, general practitioners, and nurses.

If you want to enjoy a higher-than-average salary while also caring for others and helping them to feel their best, a career in the healthcare field is definitely worth pursuing, especially if you work toward one of these 3 jobs:

Top 3 Job Titles

  • Specialist Doctor: Average Annual Salary 1,600,000 ZAR Per Year
  • Pharmacist: Average Annual Salary 487,000 ZAR Per Year
  • General Practitioner: Average Annual Salary 483,000 ZAR Per Year

Career Prospects

Prospects look great for those in the healthcare industry. There’s always a strong need for caring, skilled, and intelligent healthcare workers, so your chances of finding a job after graduation look quite good.

👉 Browse Healthcare Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

2. Legal

The legal industry is another one of South Africa’s highest-paying industries. Those who are passionate about studying, interpreting, and upholding the law will find that they can earn a very generous salary once they complete their schooling and find work in South Africa. This is particularly true for those who pursue the following jobs:

Top 3 Job Titles

  • Judge: Average Annual Salary 825,000 ZAR Per Year
  • Legal Advisor: Average Annual Salary 400,000 ZAR Per Year
  • Lawyer: Average Annual Salary 326,000 ZAR Per Year

Career Prospects

The legal industry in South Africa isn’t growing as quickly as it is in other parts of the world, so job prospects are not quite as promising. However, there are still jobs available in this field, so for those who are passionate about the law, it’s still worth pursuing a career. You may just have to wait a little longer than average to find a good fit.

👉 Browse Legal Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

3. Finance

There are plenty of high-paying finance jobs available in South Africa, too. If you are interested in numbers and money management, you’ll find lots of well-paid options, including the following:

Top 3 Job Titles

  • Chief Financial Officer: Average Annual Salary 780,000 ZAR Per Year
  • Chartered Accountant: Average Annual Salary 605,000 ZAR Per Year
  • Financial Advisor: Average Annual Salary 300,000 ZAR Per Year

Career Prospects

People in South Africa, both individuals and business owners, will always need help from finance experts. Because of this, career prospects look very good for those who pursue a job in this field.

👉 Browse Finance Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

4. Aviation

Aviation careers are known throughout the world for coming with high salaries, as well as lots of excitement and travel opportunities. If you’re interested in a highly paid aviation career, here are 3 of the highest-paying options:

Top 3 Job Titles

  • Commercial Pilot: Average Annual Salary 450,000 ZAR Per Year
  • Aerospace Technician: Average Annual Salary 387,000 ZAR Per Year
  • Air Traffic Controller: Average Annual Salary 360,000 ZAR Per Year

Career Prospects

As tourism and travel rates start picking back up, there will be an increased need for workers in the aviation industry. With this in mind, it makes sense that prospects would be good for those pursuing these kinds of jobs.

👉 Browse Aviation Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

5. Engineering

The engineering industry is another one of the highest-paid industries in South Africa. For those who like to work with their hands and be creative problem-solvers, there are plenty of well-paid engineering jobs here, including these 3:

Top 3 Job Titles

  • Petroleum Engineer: Average Annual Salary 572,000 ZAR Per Year
  • Biomedical Engineer: Average Annual Salary 420,000 ZAR Per Year
  • Civil Engineer: Average Annual Salary 356,000 ZAR Per Year

Career Prospects

In South Africa and other parts of the world, there will always be a need for engineers of all kinds. If you’re looking for a job with lots of opportunities and stability, engineering is a great choice.

👉 Browse Engineering Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

Top 5 Highest-Paying Jobs in South Africa for Fresh Graduates

There is a difference between the highest-paying jobs in South Africa and the highest-paying jobs in South Africa for fresh graduates. Even if you’re working in one of the highest-paying industries in South Africa, it may still take you a while to rise through the ranks and start earning a high salary.

If you’re looking to maximize your earnings right out of school, the following are the 5 best-paying jobs to consider:

1. Petroleum Engineer

Engineering careers, in general, are considered to be a safe and well-paid option in South Africa and in other countries across the globe. Of all the different types of engineering one can study, though, petroleum engineering is one of the most lucrative options.

Petroleum engineers (also known as natural gas engineers and biofuels engineers) are responsible for planning and organizing the processes necessary for finding and extracting petroleum from the earth. They earn a median salary of more than 400,000 ZAR per year, with a lot of room for growth and increased earnings over time.

To become a petroleum engineer, you will need at least a bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering (or a related engineering field). Some engineers go on to earn master’s degrees, too, to increase their chances of getting hired and earning higher salaries.

👉 Browse Petroleum Engineering Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

2. Actuary

As we mentioned above, actuaries are some of the highest-paid workers in all of South Africa.

Even fresh graduates with degrees in actuarial science can earn high salaries right away, with the average salary for a new worker in this position coming in at over 710,000 ZAR per year. In other words, you can earn close to the same starting salary as a doctor, without having to be around sick people all day.

Actuaries are responsible for compiling and analyzing statistics and then using them to calculate people’s insurance risks and premiums. If you’re good with numbers and data analysis and want to use those skills to earn a great salary, a career as an actuary might be a good choice for you.

To work in this field, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree in actuarial science or actuarial mathematics. 

👉 Browse Actuary Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

3. Chartered Accountant

A chartered accountant is a type of accounting professional who’s credentialed to work anywhere in the world. Chartered accountants have the qualifications needed to handle various accounting tasks, including conducting audits, filing tax returns, and offering financial advice to individuals and companies.

The average annual salary for a chartered accountant comes in at over 729,000 ZAR per year.

If you’re good with numbers but prefer to work on the financial side of things, rather than as an actuary, a career as an accountant is a good choice. This is especially true when you consider the fact that accountants are always needed.

Every company, as well as many individuals, can benefit from an expert’s advice when it comes to handling their finances, so you’ll get to enjoy a great deal of job security in addition to a high salary.

👉 Browse Chartered Accountant Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

4. Architect

Architects can also earn higher-than-average salaries right after graduating from school.

The average annual salary for an architect comes in at around 715,000 ZAR per year. Even if you have to work for a few years before reaching this level, you’ll still be earning a lot more than the average worker in South Africa, while also gaining some valuable experience.

There are plenty of careers available in the architecture field in South Africa, especially as new businesses begin popping up and the country’s economy begins to recover. If you love to design and want to play a role in transforming and beautifying South Africa, architecture is a great (and lucrative) career path to consider.

To become an architect, you’ll need to earn at least a bachelor’s degree in architecture, although some go on to earn a master’s degree as well to increase their chances of getting hired.

👉 Browse Architect Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

5. Doctor

Of course, doctors can also earn higher-than-average salaries right after graduating from medical school.

As we mentioned earlier, the average salary for a freshly graduated doctor is around 730,000 ZAR per year. Your earnings will only go up from there, too, as you gain experience and begin establishing yourself within your chosen field.

Doctors, like other healthcare workers, get to enjoy a great deal of job security, too, which is a selling point for a lot of South African students. There will always be a need for medical professionals, so chances are good that you’ll have an easy time getting hired (and keeping your job) after you graduate.

To become a doctor in South Africa, you’ll need to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Medicine and Surgery. From here, you’ll have to work for 2 years as a clinical intern before you can start calling yourself a medical doctor. You’ll need to complete a year of compulsory community service, too.

It’s a long road to becoming a doctor in South Africa, but many medical students believe that the payout is well worth the upfront time and money investments.

👉 Browse Doctor Jobs in South Africa on GrabJobs

What Degree Pays Most in South Africa?

If you want to qualify for one of the highest-paying jobs in South Africa for fresh graduates, you’ll need to make sure you’re working toward the right degree.

and one of the best-paid jobs in South Africa, you’ll want to consider one of the following degree paths:

Degree Type

Potential Annual Salary

Engineering

418,400 ZAR

Actuarial Science

710,902 ZAR

Accounting

729,540 ZAR

Architecture

707,770 ZAR

Medical

730,000 ZAR

These salaries are merely estimates to help you begin planning for your future career.

If you’re interested in pursuing a degree that will set you up for a high salary now and in the future, all of these degree types are good ones to consider. They’re not the end-all-be-all, though.

There are plenty of other high-paying career paths you can look into if a career in engineering, actuarial science, or medicine doesn’t appeal to you.

Land the Highest-Paying Jobs in South Africa Today

Whether you’re looking to increase your current salary or want to set yourself up to earn a lot of money in the future, this information on the highest-paying jobs in South Africa will surely come in handy.

Use this guide as a starting point to decide which career path you want to pursue. Then, use our career resources to help you figure out which skills you need to develop to increase your chances of getting hired.

GrabJobs has lots of articles and courses available to give you the tools you need to succeed. Check them out today!

23 Best Job Sites in South Africa

best job sites in South Africa

With the highest unemployment rate in the sub-Saharan region of Africa, South Africa can be a hard place to try and find a job.

Fortunately, there are tools that can help you in your search. With the right job sites, you can keep up with the latest vacancies across all industries and in all locations. You can also often find work faster when you take this approach compared to working with a recruiter or searching on social media.

If you’ve been struggling with being able to find jobs in South Africa, keep reading. Listed below are the top 21 best job sites in South Africa.

Screenshot of GrabJobs South Africa page

Of all the best job sites in South Africa, GrabJobs ranks #1. GrabJobs is currently used by over 10,000 businesses worldwide, including many South African companies.

GrabJobs is a job site that’s accessible via desktop and mobile app.

Both of these tools allow you to streamline your job search and find the right listing as quickly as possible. The GrabJobs app is particularly popular, though, and separates this platform from a lot of other job sites in South Africa.

With the GrabJobs app, you can easily apply for jobs even if you don’t have a resume or CV. You can also use the app’s chat feature to get in touch with potential employers, and you can monitor your application status to see when others are checking it out.

Despite the name ExecutivePlacements.com caters for jobs across all industries and all levels of staff. With over 10,000 monthly job listings, millions of monthly visitors, easy to setup job alerts ExecutivePlacements is rated as one of the leading job portal in South Africa.

One of the best options for job seekers in South Africa is to consider a government job. The South Africa Government Jobs site is the perfect place to start to see what kinds of government positions are open.

There are lots of job opportunities available here, for people of all backgrounds, education levels, and skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a job in finance, nursing, or anything in between, you might be able to find the perfect fit by searching through this site.

Lots of professionals use LinkedIn to network with other professionals and build connections that could lead to job offers in the future. This is a great way to use the platform, but you can also use it to find jobs in South Africa.

Lots of companies post job ads and listings on LinkedIn, and the site is updated regularly throughout the day with new opportunities. Once you upload your resume to LinkedIn, you can easily apply for these jobs in just a few minutes.

Glassdoor is a job site that features lots of listings for jobs throughout South Africa. It also includes reviews of various companies from past and current employees.

This information helps you to get a more well-rounded picture of what different businesses are like, from salary and benefits to culture. With this in mind, you can feel confident that you’re choosing to apply for a job at a company that will treat you well and will provide a positive work environment.

Bizcraft.co.za is a free online resource website for South African job seekers to use. On the site you can find free CV and cover letter templates to download, plus an amazing Blog which answers questions surrounding your job search and labour laws in South Africa. The best part is, if you do not find an answer to your question on the Blog you can simply pop Bizcraft an Email, an they will do their best to answer it as quickly as possible. 

Another one of the best job sites in South Africa is Google Careers (formerly known as Google for Jobs).

Google Careers works similarly to the regular Google search engine. Job seekers can type in keywords related to the type of position they want to apply for, along with location details, and they can quickly receive a list of job ads from all over the web.

Currently, Careers24 has over 11 thousand job listings for positions all over South Africa.

If you’re ready to find your dream career, Careers24 can help you identify the perfect match in no time. This site is easy to navigate and even allows you to search for jobs by region, city, and sector, so you can easily narrow down your options.

Job Mail features thousands of job listings across South Africa.

It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a career in tech, hospitality, healthcare, or anything in between. You can easily sort through listings and find a great fit by using this site.

Job Mail also features lots of training materials and courses to help job seekers expand their skills and become more well-rounded applicants.

Through the CareersPortal website, you can easily search for jobs in South Africa by position, location, job type, and more. This site features a detailed list of openings throughout the country, so you can know exactly what you’re applying for.

CareersPortal also offers regular news updates on the South African job market. Job seekers can find career advice articles here, too, which helps them to prepare for the application and interview processes.

If you’ve been trying to find jobs in South Africa without a lot of luck, make sure you’re checking out PNet.

PNet offers lots of filters to help job seekers weed out positions that aren’t a good fit for them. The list of filter options includes “date posted,” “function,” “sector,” “region,” “work type,” and more.

All of these filter options allow for a faster job search and help to streamline the process so you can find the right fit for you as quickly as possible.

BizCommunity allows you to easily search for jobs in South Africa (and in several other countries throughout the world). The site allows you to search by province, industry, date posted, experience level, education requirements, and more.

BizCommunity also features a range of articles, videos, and other resources that job seekers can reference to expand their skills, stay informed about the current job market, and plan for the future.

For women who are struggling to find jobs in South Africa, Recruit My Mom is a great platform to visit.

This site is run by people who understand womens’ need for flexible jobs and a good sense of work-life balance. That’s why it only features listings for positions that accommodate these needs.

In addition to a regularly updated list of job openings, Recruit My Mom also features a helpful blog with lots of career advice for women who are looking to enter the workforce.

If you want to work in the hospitality industry in South Africa, visit Hotel Jobs to look for openings. As South Africa’s number one hospitality job site, it features listings for a variety of hospitality positions, from restaurant management to human resources.

The Hotel Jobs allows you to search for openings by job type, location, employer type, and more. With these advanced search features, you can quickly narrow down your search and find a job that meets your needs and helps you to accomplish your goals.

For jobs in IT, marketing, design, and other related fields, CompuJobs is an excellent job site to visit. It helps you to stay in the loop about the latest opportunities in your specific industry.

Through this site, you can quickly upload your CV and search for jobs across a variety of categories. You can also use advanced job search options and filter results by region, job type, job level, and more.

Of all the online job platforms in South Africa, Job Nexus is one of the most popular and useful. Job Nexus is designed to help you accelerate your job search and get hired as quickly as possible.

Through this platform, you can easily upload your CV and get professional advice on how to make it as appealing as possible to hiring managers. No matter what kind of job you’re searching for, Job Nexus can help you land it.

Trovit is a search engine designed specifically for job seekers.

Trovit collects job ads from thousands of different websites and lets you access them with one quick search. All you have to do is type in the position you’re looking for (or the company you want to work for) and your location, and Trovit does the rest.

The Job Centre is a national South African job board. It’s dedicated to providing job seekers with access to top-quality jobs across all sectors and locations throughout the country.

Through The Job Centre, you can easily create or upload a resume or CV and start applying for jobs in no time.

BestJobs is another well-known and frequently used job site in South Africa.

This site features thousands of jobs across a variety of industries, including administrative, sales, customer service, and more. New jobs are added to the platform daily, too, and you can receive email updates to avoid missing out on any opportunities.

Job Vine is a great platform for job seekers of all kinds. Whether you’re looking for a part-time, full-time, or freelance job, Job Vine can provide you with a full list of opportunities.

You can easily upload your CV to Job Vine, too, which makes the application process much more efficient. If you’re looking to save time and access lots of job ads, this is an excellent site to add to your list. 

For young job seekers who need help finding work, SA Youth is the perfect site to visit.

Formerly known as Giraffe, this site is dedicated to supporting the unemployed youth of South Africa and giving them the tools they need to succeed now and in the future.

SA Youth makes it easy for applicants to find listings that align with their goals and skills. It also provides them with access to openings they might not know about otherwise.

CareerJunction allows you to search through thousands of job listings in South Africa.

All you have to do is type in a job title, skill, company, or keyword, add your location, and then hit the “search” button. In no time, you’ll be presented with a list of job ads that you can peruse and apply for directly through the CareerJunction website.

CareerJunction also features an app that helps you search for jobs quickly while you’re on the go.

The Government Jobs website is another good one to check out for those who want to work for the South African government.

This site offers information on vacancies throughout the country. It also provides resources to help with CV writing, interview preparation, and even starting your own business.

No matter what your goals or challenges are, you’ll find tools here that can help.

Time to Start Using the Best Job Sites in South Africa

Now that you know more about the best job sites in South Africa, it’s time to start using them. Keep this list in mind so you can simplify your job search and start sending out applications as quickly as possible.

Of all the job platforms in South Africa that are mentioned above, GrabJobs is one of the best ones to start with.

GrabJobs is an efficient recruitment platform that connects thousands of job-seekers and employers around the world on a daily basis. Individuals can rely on the platform’s free job search functionalities to receive job matching alerts and access the career resources library. They can also browse the online courses offered to build their career.

See what GrabJobs can do for your job search today!