Able Seaman salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Able Seaman in South Africa is approximately 128,694 ZAR (6,409 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Able Seaman do?

An Able Seaman is a crucial member of a ship's crew responsible for various deck operations and maintenance tasks. They assist in the safe navigation and operation of the vessel, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and maintaining equipment and machinery. Able Seamen handle mooring lines during docking and undocking, perform routine maintenance on deck machinery, and assist in the loading and unloading of cargo. They also stand watch on the bridge, monitoring the ship's position, and report any hazards or abnormalities to the officer on duty. Additionally, they may be involved in the operation of life-saving equipment and participate in emergency drills. This occupation requires physical strength, agility, and the ability to work in challenging conditions at sea.

Skills: Able Seaman, Deck Operations, Navigation, Safety Compliance, Maintenance, Ship Crew
Job industry: Maritime

How much does Able Seaman make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 4 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Able Seaman a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Able Seaman is an averagely well paid job that still allows for some yearly savings. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Able Seaman?

High salary for Able Seaman would be somewhere between 141,563 ZAR and 186,606 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Able Seaman in South Africa?

Living in South Africa the approximate monthly expenses are: 271 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 128,694 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 10,725 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 2,475 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 62 ZAR per hour
By working as Able Seaman a person can save up to 263 USD per month or 3,155 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in South Africa, see costs of living in South Africa.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Able Seaman

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in South Africa

Data as of 2025

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