Mechatronics engineering salary in South Africa and job responsibilities
Mechatronics engineering salary in South Africa, estimated in thousands, offers promising growth and lucrative rewards. Skilled engineers design and innovate systems that revolutionise industries. Their entry-level salaries are competitive, with significant potential for increases over time.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Key takeaways
- Mechatronics engineers in South Africa earn between R21,836 and R36,605 per month.
- It is a multidisciplinary engineering field integrating mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, and control engineering.
- A National Senior Certificate (matric) with a bachelor's degree endorsement is required to pursue the profession.
- The field is considered worth pursuing due to strong career prospects, good earning potential, and job satisfaction.
- It takes 4 years to complete a mechatronics engineering degree.
A look at mechatronics engineering salary in South Africa
Mechatronics engineering is a multidisciplinary field that integrates mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, and control engineering. It focuses on combining mechanical systems with electronics and software to create more functional, automated, and efficient devices.
According to Indeed and Glassdoor, a mechatronics engineer's salary in South Africa ranges between R21,836 and R36,605 per month. However, this is highly dependent on the industry, experience, location, and other factors.
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Is mechatronics engineering worth it?
Mechatronics engineering is generally considered worth pursuing due to its strong career prospects, good earning potential, and job satisfaction. It typically opens diverse opportunities in industries like robotics, automotive, aerospace, and automation.
Requirements to be a mechatronics engineer
To pursue a mechatronics course in South Africa, you need a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a bachelor's degree endorsement. You will also need to have achieved higher grades in the following subjects:
- Mathematics >60
- Physical Science >60
Pursuing a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics Engineering takes around four years. Thereafter, you will need to register with the relevant regulatory bodies, such as the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).
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Duties and responsibilities of mechatronic engineers
Mechatronic engineers perform multiple duties across the engineering scene. A mechatronic engineering job description involves the following:
- Troubleshooting and maintaining mechatronic systems.
- Conducting research and innovation in automation, robotics, and innovative technologies.
- Incorporating automation into existing production methods.
- Designing and integrating mechanical parts, sensors, actuators, and control systems to ensure seamless system performance.
- Programming microcontrollers and control devices to regulate system behaviour.
- Building and testing prototypes to evaluate and improve functionality.
- Selecting and incorporating sensors for environmental interaction.
- Collaborating in multidisciplinary teams and managing projects.
A look at the highest-paid engineering professionals in South Africa
According to Business Tech, the highest-paid engineering field in South Africa in 2025 is aerospace engineering, earning an average monthly salary of around R69,167. These professionals are responsible for designing aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and systems for national defence.
Chemical engineering takes the second place, earning a monthly salary of around R58,938. This field deals with the study of chemical plants to fasten and improve production processes. The concepts employed in this field are mainly learnt in mathematics, biology, physics, chemistry, and economics.
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Trivia
- Several top universities and technical colleges across South Africa offer accredited mechatronic engineering programmes.
- The term "mechatronics" is a blend of "mechanics" and "electronics," first coined by Japanese engineer Tetsuro Mori in 1969 at Yaskawa Electric Corporation.
- The Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) regulates the engineering profession, including mechatronic engineering, ensuring standards and ethics are upheld.
- Mechatronics engineers in South Africa contribute significantly to sectors such as mining automation, automotive manufacturing, and smart industrial machines.
Conclusion
Mechatronics engineering salary in South Africa, estimated at between R21,836 and R36,605 per month, reflects the value of the multidisciplinary expertise. With strong demand across industries, professionals enjoy attractive compensation and career growth. However, salary varies by experience, location, and specialisation, rewarding skill and innovation.
DISCLAIMER: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional advice or help and should not be relied on to make decisions. Any action you take based on the information presented in this article is strictly at your own risk and responsibility.
READ MORE: Chemical engineering salary in South Africa
Briefly.co.za shared an article about chemical engineering, a field that involves the study of chemical plants to fasten and improve production processes.
The average chemical engineering salary is a testament to how in-demand the profession is. The figures may vary due to several factors, including level of education and years of experience.
Source: Briefly News
