Petrol Attendant Salaries in 2025

Petrol attendants are a familiar part of everyday life in South Africa. Whether you’re filling up your tank or asking for help with tyre pressure, these hardworking men and women are always there to assist. But how much do they actually earn in 2025? Let’s break it down.

What is the Minimum Wage for Petrol Attendants in 2025?

As of 2025, the minimum wage for petrol attendants in South Africa is R1,962.45 per week, which adds up to about R7,850 per month. That’s the official amount set by the Motor Industry Bargaining Council (MIBCO), and it’s valid until at least August 2025.

Hourly, this comes to around R43.61. This is the least an employer is allowed to pay a petrol attendant. It’s there to protect workers and ensure they get fair wages for their time and hard work.

Real Salaries: From Entry-Level to Experienced Workers

While the minimum wage is the base, many attendants earn more depending on their:

• Experience
• Location
• Employer
• Working hours

Across South Africa, the salary range for petrol attendants is wide. Some workers earn as little as R4,438 per month, while others can make up to R17,326. The average salary is about R10,882.

That means someone who’s been working for years at a busy petrol station in Johannesburg or Cape Town may earn more than someone just starting out in a rural area.

How Much Do Petrol Attendants Earn in Tips?

A big part of a petrol attendant’s income comes from tips. These are small amounts of money given by customers as a thank you for services like:

• Cleaning windscreens
• Checking oil and water
• Pumping tyres
• General friendly service

In 2025, attendants in cities like Johannesburg report earning about R750 per month in tips. That may not sound like a lot, but over the year, it adds up to R9,000 extra income.

In some cases, workers at busy stations may earn much more. There have been stories of petrol attendants earning R10,000 or more in tips alone, especially if they’re friendly, fast, and located at high-traffic stations.

How Many People Work as Petrol Attendants in SA?

South Africa has a large petrol station network and employs around 140,000 petrol attendants nationwide. Most of these workers are based in:

• Gauteng
• KwaZulu-Natal
• Western Cape

These three provinces make up two-thirds of the total workforce in the sector.

For many people, especially those without higher education, this job offers a stable and reliable source of income. It also plays an important role in keeping our country moving.

What Are the Job Duties of a Petrol Attendant?

Petrol attendants are more than just pump operators. Their duties include:

• Fueling vehicles safely
• Cleaning windscreens
• Checking oil, water, and tyre pressure
• Providing customer service
• Handling cash and card payments
• Keeping the station clean and safe

It’s a job that requires both physical effort and good people skills. Many attendants stand for hours in all weather conditions, yet they always try to stay polite and helpful.

Why Do Wages Vary So Much?

Several things can affect how much a petrol attendant earns:

1. Experience: New workers earn less. Those with more years on the job get better pay.
2. Location: Big cities and busy highways mean more customers – and more tips.
3. Type of station: Some stations (like those owned by big chains) pay more than smaller, independent ones.
4. Shift work: Night shifts or working on weekends often comes with a little extra pay.

So while the minimum is R7,850, many workers take home more when tips and bonuses are added.

What Can Attendants Do to Earn More?

If you are working as a petrol attendant and want to increase your earnings, here are some tips:

• Be polite and friendly: Customers tip more when they feel appreciated.
• Work during peak times: More customers = more tips.
• Ask for extra training: Some stations offer training, which can lead to promotions.
• Stay neat and professional: Clean uniforms and good manners go a long way.

Some stations even allow staff to move into supervisory roles, especially those who show leadership skills and responsibility.

How to Budget as a Petrol Attendant

If you earn between R7,850 and R10,000 per month, managing your money is key. Here are a few smart budgeting tips:

1. Save R100-R200 every month if possible, even if it’s small.
2. Track your spending using a notebook or simple app.
3. Cut down on unnecessary costs – like buying food at work instead of packing lunch.
4. Join stokvels or savings clubs – they help with discipline and offer support.

Looking Ahead – What’s Next for 2025 and Beyond?

Petrol attendant wages may change again after August 2025, depending on the next MIBCO wage agreement. Many hope for an increase, especially with the rising cost of living.

Another trend to watch is digital tipping. As more people go cashless, stations may introduce QR code tip systems. This could help attendants get tips even from card-paying customers.

Check also: Hospitality Worker Salaries in South Africa

Being a petrol attendant is a respected and important job in South Africa. The pay varies, but with the right attitude and location, many attendants are earning above the national minimum wage – and tips make a big difference.

If you’re already in this job, focus on customer service and professionalism. If you’re considering it, know that it offers stable employment, growth opportunities, and the chance to earn more with experience.