Packaging Machine Operator salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Packaging Machine Operator in South Africa is approximately 100,873 ZAR (5,036 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 Packaging Machine Operator do?

A packaging machine operator is responsible for operating and maintaining packaging machinery in a manufacturing or production setting. They are responsible for setting up the machines, adjusting settings, and ensuring the proper packaging of products. This includes monitoring the machines during operation, troubleshooting any issues that may arise, and performing regular maintenance tasks. The operator also inspects finished products to ensure they meet quality standards and make adjustments as necessary. They may be required to load materials into the machines, such as containers, labels, or packaging materials, and ensure a steady supply throughout the production process. Attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are essential for this role.

Skills: Packaging machine operator, Machine operation, Manufacturing, Production, Quality control, Maintenance
Job industry: Manufacturing

How much does Packaging Machine Operator make?

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


Want to check how your salary compares? Submit your own salary here

Salary comparison to National average

Is Packaging Machine Operator a well paid job?

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

What is considered a high salary for Packaging Machine Operator?

High salary for Packaging Machine Operator would be somewhere between 110,960 ZAR and 146,266 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Packaging Machine 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: 100,873 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 8,406 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,940 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 48 ZAR per hour
By working as Packaging Machine Operator a person can save up to 148 USD per month or 1,782 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 Packaging Machine 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

Random salary:
Personal caregiver (69,460 ZAR per year, pre-tax.)
Court reporter (145,887 ZAR per year, pre-tax.)
Plant superintendent (158,174 ZAR per year, pre-tax.)
Character artist (112,178 ZAR per year, pre-tax.)
Junior appraiser (86,322 ZAR per year, pre-tax.)

Feedback about these results