South Africa is a unique country when it comes to careers. Rules that apply in the world usually do not apply in South Africa because of its history and structural problems. As the year comes to close, we look at the most paying jobs in South Africa. This year’s list is dominated by finance and engineering jobs.
Financial Management
South Africa is still lagging behind when it comes to portfolio managers and finance professionals. The government classified these as critical skills. They are in high demand whilst they are limited in supply. Financial management also includes accounting and financial analysis. Finance managers are earning an average of R70 000 a month.
Structural Engineering
There is a huge construction drive in South Africa. New roads, shopping malls, suburbs and institutions are being built. The industry peaked in 2009 to 2010 during the World Cup preparations. Initial indications were that the construction industry would suffer a brain drain as most foreign engineers would return home soon after the World Cup, which would result in a reduction in the number of engineers. It was predicted that salaries would rise. The scenario is evident now as salaries continue to rise for that profession. Average salary is R65 000 a month
Plant Management
Plant management is in the engineering class. It speaks mostly to mechanical engineering. Plant managers are taking home an average of R60 000 every month. They are deemed to be in short supply in the country.
Civil Engineering
Civil engineers are known to be high earners. Their consultancy services are of great value in the construction industry. Civil Engineers are bagging around R40 000 per month. Seniors peak as high as R55 000 on average.
Corporate Lending
Corporate lending is another area of finance that is lucrative. It is due top the rise of interest rates n the economy. Lending companies are making huge profits. Juniors in the lending business average R35 000 a month.
IT Management
Information Technology has been topping the list for the most paid professionals in South Africa and around the world. It seems there is oversubscription in that particular industry which has caused salaries to fall. Average salary is R45 000.
Mechanical Engineering / Industrial Engineering
Mechanical engineering also encompasses plant management. Engineers in this field are earning an average of R50 000 a month.
Financial Analysis
The finance industry in South Africa is growing strong each year. The introduction of alternative investments has caused a huge demand in finance professionals to analyse dynamic companies which are not listed. A huge risk and reward is associated with alternative investments which demands close to accurate analysis since there is no rule of thumb. Professionals in this field earn R45 000
Marketing Management
Marketing is at the heart of every business. Marketers are usually paid salaries that are linked to their performance. With the growth in credit facilities, sales are increasing and professionals are capitalising. An average salary for a marketing manager is R40 000.
Software Development
Software developers used to be so paid. They are still in the race though. Most businesses are looking to automate processes in order to improve productivity and lower costs related to labour. Software developers are earning an average of R50 000 a month.