Water Resources Engineer salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Water Resources Engineer in South Africa is approximately 188,238 ZAR (9,400 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 Water Resources Engineer do?

A water resources engineer is responsible for managing and developing water-related infrastructure projects. They design, construct, and maintain systems that control and distribute water resources, such as dams, reservoirs, irrigation systems, and wastewater treatment plants. These professionals analyze data and conduct studies to assess the availability and quality of water sources, as well as the impact of human activities on water resources. They also develop strategies to mitigate risks associated with floods, droughts, and pollution. Water resources engineers collaborate with other professionals, including hydrologists, environmental scientists, and government officials, to ensure sustainable and efficient use of water resources.

Skills: Water resources engineer, Infrastructure development, Water management, Environmental engineering, Hydrology, Sustainability
Job industry: Water and wastewater treatment

How much does Water Resources Engineer make?

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


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Water Resources Engineer a well paid job?

Yes, our data shows that Water Resources Engineer 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 Water Resources Engineer?

High salary for Water Resources Engineer would be somewhere between 207,062 ZAR and 272,945 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Water Resources Engineer 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: 188,238 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 15,687 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 3,620 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 90 ZAR per hour
By working as Water Resources Engineer a person can save up to 512 USD per month or 6,146 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 Water Resources Engineer

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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