Lab Assistant salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Lab Assistant in South Africa is approximately 77,769 ZAR (3,910 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 Lab Assistant do?

A lab assistant is an essential member of a laboratory team, responsible for supporting scientists and researchers in conducting experiments and carrying out various scientific procedures. Their primary role is to assist with the preparation, organization, and maintenance of laboratory equipment and supplies. Lab assistants also play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and cleanliness of the lab by following established protocols and guidelines. They may be involved in tasks such as measuring and mixing chemicals, preparing samples, operating and maintaining laboratory instruments, recording data, and assisting in the analysis of results. Additionally, lab assistants may also be responsible for inventory management, ordering supplies, and keeping detailed records of experiments and procedures.

Skills: Lab assistant, Laboratory support, Scientific research, Experimentation, Equipment maintenance, Safety protocols
Job industry: Healthcare

How much does Lab Assistant make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Lab Assistant a well paid job?

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

What is considered a high salary for Lab Assistant?

High salary for Lab Assistant would be somewhere between 85,546 ZAR and 112,765 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Lab Assistant 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: 77,769 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 6,481 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,496 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 37 ZAR per hour
By working as Lab Assistant a person can save up to 55 USD per month or 656 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 Lab Assistant

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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