Computer science salary per month in South Africa (2024)

Computer science salary per month in South Africa (2024)

The field of computer science continues to experience significant growth in South Africa and other parts of the world. Advancements in technology and increasing digitization in various industries have led to a rise in demand for experts with skills in the field. This article highlights computer science salaries in South Africa to give employers and job seekers an overview of the expected compensation.

Computer science salary in South Africa
Computer science in South Africa is a growing field. Photo: Yuichiro Chino
Source: Getty Images

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Computer science is a critical field with a thriving job market in need of skilled professionals. Virtually every sector of the economy, from tech giants to small startups, is in constant need of qualified computer scientists.

Do computer scientists make good money?

Computer science has numerous well-paying opportunities in different industries. The amount one earns depends on factors like location, demand, experience, education level, employer, and the specific role. With the right skills and experience, professionals in this field can command high salaries and lucrative benefits packages.

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Cybersecurity salary per month in South Africa (2024)

Computer science salary in South Africa per month

The average computer science salary per month in South Africa ranges between R18,000 and R33,000. PayScale estimates the monthly pay to be R18,500, Glassdoor estimates it to be R29,000 per month, and Talent.com estimates it to be R32,500 per month.

The average yearly salary ranges between R216,000 and R396,000. The highest-earning professionals in the field earn between R55,700 and R168,000 per month, while entry-level professionals earn between R5,000 and R20,000 per month.

Programmers working on a code
Computer science is a wide field with a variety of skill sets. Photo: Cecilie Arcurs
Source: Getty Images

What does a computer scientist do?

Generally, a computer scientist creates solutions related to computer programs, according to Coursera. Their key responsibilities can include the following;

  • Developing and designing software, hardware, and networks
  • Writing new programming languages or code
  • Analyzing and understanding computer algorithms
  • Conducting research experiments to test new theories
  • Upgrading or updating computer systems or programs
  • Collaborating with other tech professionals to create new technology

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Computer science jobs in South Africa

With a background in computer science, you can use these skills to work in various capacities. Common jobs include;

  • Computer programmer: Their main responsibility is to write and test code for software applications.
  • Cybersecurity engineers: They are responsible for protecting systems, networks, and data from cyber threats.
  • Information security engineers: They implement security measures to safeguard a company’s computer systems and networks from potential breaches, unauthorized access, and threats.
  • Software engineer: Their main role is to design, develop, test, and maintain software systems.
  • Web developers: They design, create, test, and maintain websites.
  • System analyst: Their main role is to analyze, maintain, and improve information systems within an organization.
  • Data scientists: They use scientific methods, processes, algorithms, and systems to extract knowledge and insights from structured and unstructured data.
  • Machine learning engineers: They specialize in creating and implementing machine learning models.
  • Software architect: Their main responsibility involves making high-level software design choices and dictating technical standards like coding standards, tools, and platforms. They ensure systems are designed to meet the desired functional requirements.
  • Computer systems analysts: They analyze computer systems to understand and improve a company’s computing needs.
  • Information technology specialist: An IT specialist does various tasks related to computer systems and networks, such as troubleshooting, maintaining, and improving hardware and software. They also provide technical support to company staff.
  • Information systems manager: They are in charge of the IT department within an organization. They oversee the planning, implementation, and maintenance of a company’s IT systems and infrastructure.

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A programmer working on software
Computer scientists design software and write code. Photo: Saprinya Pinngam
Source: Getty Images

Which is the highest-paid job in computer science?

The highest-paying jobs in the computer science field are generally information systems managers and software architects due to their level of experience. Below is a table of the various computer science job salaries in the country according to data from salary and job-dedicated sites like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, PayScale, Salary Explorer, Indeed, and Talent.com.

Job titleAverage monthly salaryAverage yearly salary
Computer programmerR20,000-R21,360R240,000-R256,320
Cybersecurity engineerR37,000-R50,000R444,00-R600,000
Information security engineerR35,000-R55,000R420,000-R660,000
Software engineerR32,000-R50,000R384,000-R600,000
Web developerR22,000-R38,000R264,000-R456,000
System AnalystR34,000-R39,000R408,000-R468,000
Data scientistR35,000-R60,000R420,000-R720,000
Machine learning engineerR36,000-R45,000R432,000-R540,000
Software architectR67,000-R85,000R804,000-R1,020,000
Computer systems analystR33,000-R39,000R396,000-R468,000
Information technology specialistR27,000-R50,000R324,000-R600,000
Information systems managerR46,000-R133,000R552,000-R1,596,000

Is computer science in demand in South Africa?

Computer science skills are in demand in South Africa due to the increasing reliance on technology in various sectors of the economy. Developer programmers, applications programmers, computer quality assurance analysts, computer network & systems engineers, and network analysts are some of the jobs in the field listed under the Critical Skills List.

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AI concept
Computer scientists can specialize in artificial intelligence. Photo: Shutthiphong Chandaeng
Source: Getty Images

Computer science salaries in SA have one of the most competitive remuneration packages in the country. The field offers a wide range of career paths, catering to various interests and skill sets. Whether you want to specialize in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software development or data science, the opportunities are endless.

DISCLAIMER: This article is intended 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 of any kind. Any action you take upon the information presented in this article is strictly at your own risk and responsibility!

READ ALSO: Cybersecurity salary per month in South Africa

Briefly.co.za highlighted how much cybersecurity professionals get paid in South Africa. Experts in the field are responsible for designing processes that protect computers, networks, and data from attack, damage, or unauthorized access.

Skilled cybersecurity experts are in demand as more companies seek their services to safeguard information systems and data. Check the article for more about how much they earn.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Alice Wabwile avatar

Alice Wabwile (Lifestyle writer) Alice Wabwile is a multifaceted content creator and Project Assistant at AfDAN, boasting over four years of experience. Holding a BCom degree from the University of Nairobi School of Business, she has cultivated a dynamic skill set through roles such as her tenure at Strathmore University's Data Science Department, where she contributed significantly to research. Recognized for her exceptional talent, she clinched the Writer of the Year Award. Beyond her professional endeavours, Alice is an engaged member of the Rotaract Club of Kabete. For inquiries, reach out to her at alicenjoro01@gmail.com

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