"Where Do We Apply?" Woman Reveals Traffic Light Technician Salary
- A video showed a traffic light technician's salary breakdown that quickly grabbed attention online, leaving South Africans curious
- A closer look at the slip revealed that the role involved more than just the basic pay, with extras included that made people think differently about the profession
- A lively conversation unfolded in the comments, with some users impressed while others pointed out how deductions made a big difference
South Africans were left surprised after a payslip breakdown surfaced online, sparking debates about income, overtime, and overlooked careers.
Source: Facebook
When people think about jobs that keep cities running, traffic light technicians are rarely the first to come to mind. Yet, their work is essential in ensuring that roads remain safe and intersections operate smoothly. On 21 September 2025, TikTok user @liferesetwithboni posted a video showing a traffic light technician’s payslip, and it quickly gained attention from curious South Africans. Many were surprised by the figures, which revealed how much these professionals can earn in a single month.
The payslip showed that the gross monthly earnings reached R67,600.40, which included the basic salary, overtime, and allowances. The basic salary was split into two amounts: R3,280.00 and R39,801.40, making up the core income. What really boosted the total, however, was overtime. The technician earned R8,596.80 for 1.5 rate overtime and another R7,641.60 for double-rate overtime in July 2025. Together, overtime contributed over R16,000, highlighting how much extra hours influence the overall earnings.
Deductions and net salary breakdown
Beyond the main income, the payslip reflected several allowances. These included a cellphone allowance of R762.35, a housing subsidy of R1,173.20, and an eminence allowance of R6,348.28, all of which boosted the monthly package. However, deductions also played a big role in shaping the final figure. The payslip showed total deductions of R33,601.33, with PAYE tax at R18,456.74, UIF contributions at R177.12, and other pension and provident fund deductions making up the rest.
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After all deductions, the net salary came to R33,999.07, which is still nearly double the average South African monthly income. While the high earnings are impressive, it is clear that much of the total relies on overtime, making the job both financially rewarding and demanding. For South Africans who saw the clip, it offered a new appreciation for a role that often goes unnoticed but plays a major part in keeping daily life on the roads moving smoothly.
Source: TikTok
Mzansi reacted to the payslip
Rokunda Mulaudzi wrote:
"I know this payslip is from the City of Johannesburg."
Samidolla said:
"The overtime is ridiculous. 😂😂 Yoh, you never have time for anything, I can never. 💔"
Angelica commented:
"I'm great at maths, but I can't understand these deductions! 😭"
Kgang Ke Nna Ntsenka wrote:
"I wonder wa Rustenburg wetsang ena… because ga gona robot e berekang pila fela e sena fault."
Read also
A physiotherapist’s payslip breakdown on TikTok sparked salary transparency in South Africa
User6035589136655 said:
"Yho Johannesburg road agent technician payslip."
Tholi B Gumede asked:
"Can you please get a payslip for a football player? We want to see something. 😂😂"
kwelenyoni wrote:
"Hahahahaha, I wonder what they do in Alberton, ngoba their traffic lights never work."
Mabaso said:
"I hope the traffic lights in that municipality are working."
Check out the TikTok video below:
3 other Briefly News stories about payslips
- A TikTok video showing the payslip of a traffic officer from the Western Cape quickly drew attention.
- A TikTok video revealed a South African retail pharmacist's payslip, sparking widespread discussion.
- A content creator and career coach shared a physiotherapist’s pay slip, earning viral attention on social media.
Source: Briefly News
