Cutter Operator salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Cutter Operator in South Africa is approximately 95,043 ZAR (4,758 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 Cutter Operator do?

A cutter operator is responsible for operating cutting machinery to cut materials such as fabric, paper, or metal into specific shapes and sizes. They work in various industries such as manufacturing, printing, textiles, and construction. The primary duties of a cutter operator include setting up and adjusting cutting machines, ensuring the correct measurements and specifications are met, loading materials onto the machine, monitoring the cutting process, and performing routine maintenance on the equipment. This occupation requires strong attention to detail, technical skills, and the ability to interpret blueprints or design specifications. Cutter operators must have good hand-eye coordination, physical stamina, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team. They should also possess problem-solving skills to troubleshoot any issues that may arise during the cutting process.

Skills: Cutter operator, Cutting machinery, Material cutting, Manufacturing, Textiles, Construction.
Job industry: Manufacturing

How much does Cutter Operator make?

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


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Cutter Operator a well paid job?

No, our data shows that Cutter Operator is typically not a well-paid job. The salary varies based on experience. Meaning that even though Cutter Operator might be a low paying job, with experience the salary might increase to satisfactory levels.

What is considered a high salary for Cutter Operator?

High salary for Cutter Operator would be somewhere between 104,547 ZAR and 137,812 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Cutter Operator 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: 95,043 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 7,920 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,828 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 46 ZAR per hour
By working as Cutter Operator a person can save up to 125 USD per month or 1,504 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 Cutter Operator

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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