Senior Social Worker salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Senior Social Worker in South Africa is approximately 162,265 ZAR (8,082 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 Social Worker do?

A senior social worker is an experienced professional responsible for overseeing and managing a team of social workers in various settings such as hospitals, community centers, or government agencies. They play a critical role in providing support and guidance to individuals and families facing challenges such as mental health issues, substance abuse, domestic violence, or homelessness. Senior social workers are involved in assessing client needs, developing treatment plans, coordinating services, and advocating for their clients' rights and well-being. They also collaborate with other professionals, such as psychologists, doctors, and law enforcement, to ensure holistic care and support. Additionally, they may be involved in training and mentoring junior social workers, conducting research, and implementing policies and procedures.

Skills: Senior social worker, Social work management, Client advocacy, Case management, Team leadership, Mental health support.
Job industry: Healthcare

How much does Senior Social Worker 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 Social Worker a well paid job?

Yes, our data shows that Senior Social Worker is a 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 Social Worker?

High salary for Senior Social Worker would be somewhere between 178,492 ZAR and 235,284 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Senior Social Worker 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: 162,265 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 13,522 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 3,120 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 78 ZAR per hour
By working as Senior Social Worker a person can save up to 402 USD per month or 4,828 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 Social Worker

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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