Senior Optometrist salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Senior Optometrist in South Africa is approximately 354,981 ZAR (17,759 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 Senior Optometrist do?

A senior optometrist is a highly skilled healthcare professional specialized in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of eye disorders and diseases. They perform comprehensive eye examinations to assess visual acuity, prescribe corrective lenses, and detect abnormalities or signs of ocular diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration. Senior optometrists have extensive knowledge of ocular anatomy, physiology, and optics, enabling them to provide accurate diagnoses and develop personalized treatment plans. They may also collaborate with other healthcare professionals to co-manage patients with complex eye conditions. In addition, senior optometrists may be involved in fitting and adjusting contact lenses, providing low vision rehabilitation, and offering advice on eye care and preventive measures. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and empathy are crucial in this role to effectively interact with patients and address their concerns.

Skills: Senior Optometrist, Eye Care Specialist, Ocular Disease Management, Vision Correction, Comprehensive Eye Examinations, Contact Lens Fitting
Job industry: Healthcare

How much does Senior Optometrist make?

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


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Senior Optometrist a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Senior Optometrist is a very well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Senior Optometrist?

High salary for Senior Optometrist would be somewhere between 390,479 ZAR and 514,722 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Senior Optometrist 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: 354,981 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 29,582 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 6,827 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 171 ZAR per hour
By working as Senior Optometrist a person can save up to 1,209 USD per month or 14,505 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 Senior Optometrist

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.

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Data as of 2025

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