Home > Salary > South Africa > Computer Numerically Controlled Operator And Programmer
A Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Operator and Programmer is responsible for operating and programming computer-controlled machinery used in manufacturing processes. They work with CNC machines such as lathes, mills, routers, or grinders to produce precise and complex parts according to specifications.
The operator's role involves setting up the machine, loading materials, and monitoring the production process to ensure quality and efficiency. They interpret blueprints, adjust machine settings, and troubleshoot any issues that may arise during operation. Additionally, they perform routine maintenance tasks to keep the machines in optimal condition.
The programmer's job is to write and modify the code that controls the CNC machine's movements and functions. They use computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software to create programs that guide the machine's actions. Programmers need a strong understanding of machining processes, as well as knowledge of programming languages like G-code.
Estimated Yearly Salary: 101,356 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 8,446 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,949 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 49 ZAR per hour
Values are pre-tax
Last revision of data: 2025-01-04
Estimated Monthly Salary: 8,130 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,876 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 47 ZAR per hour
Last revision of data: 2024-01-05
Estimated Yearly Salary: 5,055 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 421 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 97 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 2 USD per hour
Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately
4 %
Data confidence is - relatively high
Data fetched from dabase: 14 submissions.
Results are anonymized. Amounts indicated are pre-tax, meaning no deductionts yet have been made to the basic salary. Salaries where there are less than 3 entries are not displayed.
Want to check how your salary compares? Submit your own salary here
Estimated Yearly Salary: 101,356 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 8,446 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,949 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 49 ZAR per hour
By working as Computer Numerically Controlled Operator And Programmer a person can save up to 150 USD per month or 1,801 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.
Estimated Yearly Salary for Computer Numerically Controlled Operator And Programmer
Last revision of data: 2025-01-04
Data as of 2025
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Computer Numerically Controlled Operator And Programmer salary in South Africa
Average Yearly Salary of Computer Numerically Controlled Operator And Programmer in South Africa is approximately 101,356 ZAR (5,055 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 Computer Numerically Controlled Operator And Programmer do?

Skills: CNC Operator, CNC Programmer, Manufacturing, Machining, CAD/CAM, Precision Engineering
Job industry: Manufacturing
Job industry: Manufacturing
How much does Computer Numerically Controlled Operator And Programmer make?
Salary details
How much does Computer Numerically Controlled Operator And Programmer make?Estimated Yearly Salary: 101,356 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 8,446 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,949 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 49 ZAR per hour
Comparing salary to last year:
Estimated Yearly Salary: 97,560 ZAREstimated Monthly Salary: 8,130 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,876 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 47 ZAR per hour
Computer Numerically Controlled Operator And Programmer estimated salary in USD
For easier comparison here is an estimated salary in USD:Estimated Yearly Salary: 5,055 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 421 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 97 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 2 USD per hour
Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately
About these results
Data confidence is - relatively high Data fetched from dabase: 14 submissions.
Results are anonymized. Amounts indicated are pre-tax, meaning no deductionts yet have been made to the basic salary. Salaries where there are less than 3 entries are not displayed.
Want to check how your salary compares? Submit your own salary here
Compare salary to other countries
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Salary comparison to National average
South Africa is a diverse and vibrant country located at the southernmost tip of the African continent. It has a population of approximately 59 million people and covers an area of around 1.2 million square kilometers. The country is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and abundant wildlife.
Estimated national average yearly salary is 126,956 ZAR (6,780 USD). Value indicated is pre-tax. Below graph shows estimated Computer Numerically Controlled Operator And Programmer job salary compared to average salary in South Africa.
Comparison shows that a person working as Computer Numerically Controlled Operator And Programmer in South Africa earns on average:
0.8 times the average salary (or 80% of average salary).
Estimated national average yearly salary is 126,956 ZAR (6,780 USD). Value indicated is pre-tax. Below graph shows estimated Computer Numerically Controlled Operator And Programmer job salary compared to average salary in South Africa.
Comparison shows that a person working as Computer Numerically Controlled Operator And Programmer in South Africa earns on average:
0.8 times the average salary (or 80% of average salary).
Is Computer Numerically Controlled Operator And Programmer a well paid job?
No / we do not have enough data to assess this.What is considered a high salary for Computer Numerically Controlled Operator And Programmer?
High salary for Computer Numerically Controlled Operator And Programmer would be somewhere between 111,492 ZAR and 146,966 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.How much can you save working as Computer Numerically Controlled Operator And Programmer 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: 101,356 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 8,446 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,949 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 49 ZAR per hour
By working as Computer Numerically Controlled Operator And Programmer a person can save up to 150 USD per month or 1,801 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 Computer Numerically Controlled Operator And Programmer
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
- 6 to 10 years of experience yields
- 11 to 15 years of experience yields
- 16 to 25 years of experience yields
- more than 25 years of experience yields
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Random salary:
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optisalary.com aggregates salary information for reference use exclusively. While we endeavor to present correct estimates, we do not ensure their absolute reliability. Users are highly advised to check with additional databases before finalizing financial decisions. Salary figures fluctuate based on multiple factors, such as location, job role, and individual qualifications. We make no claims as to the correctness of the provided information. Your use of this site acknowledges acceptance of this disclaimer.