How to Use These Posters
Each poster below profiles a real STEM career with South African context. Print them out and display them in your classroom, lab, or library. You can also:
- Use them as starting points for a career day discussion
- Ask learners to research one career in depth and present to the class
- Create a "STEM Career Wall" in your school corridor
- Use them in Life Orientation lessons (CAPS aligned)
Career 1: Software Developer
What they do: Write the computer programmes and apps that billions of people use every day. They plan, code, test, and fix software — from banking apps to games to hospital systems.
Day-to-day:
- Write code in languages like Python, JavaScript, Java, or C++
- Work in a team to plan features and fix bugs
- Test software to make sure it works correctly
- Attend meetings to discuss progress and solve problems
- Continuously learn new technologies
Education pathway:
- Grade 12 with Mathematics (not Maths Literacy) and Physical Science
- BSc Computer Science or BEng Software Engineering (3–4 years at university)
- OR: Diploma in Information Technology (3 years at a TVET college or university of technology)
- OR: Self-taught with a strong portfolio and coding bootcamp certificate
Where to study in SA: University of Cape Town, University of Pretoria, Wits, Stellenbosch, UNISA (distance), WeThinkCode_ (free, Johannesburg & Cape Town)
Salary range: R180,000 – R850,000+ per year (experience dependent)
SA Role Model: Rapelang Rabana — Tech entrepreneur who co-founded Yeigo Communications at age 21 and later founded Rekindle Learning. Named one of Forbes Africa's "30 Under 30" and a global advocate for tech education.
"Technology can be the great equaliser. It doesn't care where you come from."
Career 2: Civil Engineer
What they do: Design and oversee the construction of roads, bridges, dams, buildings, and water systems. They solve problems that affect millions of people's daily lives.
Day-to-day:
- Design structures using CAD software and mathematical calculations
- Visit construction sites to check that work meets specifications
- Manage budgets and timelines for large projects
- Work with government departments, contractors, and communities
- Ensure structures are safe and comply with building codes
Education pathway:
- Grade 12 with Mathematics and Physical Science (Level 5+)
- BEng Civil Engineering (4 years) + 1 year industry training
- Register as a Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) with ECSA after 3 years of work experience
- OR: National Diploma in Civil Engineering (3 years TVET) → BTech → work as an engineering technician
Where to study in SA: University of Pretoria, Stellenbosch, Wits, UCT, University of KwaZulu-Natal, DUT
Salary range: R250,000 – R1,200,000+ per year
SA Role Model: Khotso Mokhele — Scientist and engineer who served as president of the National Research Foundation. Born in the Free State, he became one of South Africa's most influential science leaders and holds a PhD in Microbiology.
Career 3: Data Scientist
What they do: Analyse large amounts of data to find patterns and help organisations make better decisions. They use maths, statistics, and programming to turn raw data into useful insights.
Day-to-day:
- Clean and organise messy data from multiple sources
- Build mathematical models to predict trends (e.g., customer behaviour, disease spread)
- Create visualisations (graphs, dashboards) to communicate findings
- Work with business teams to answer questions using data
- Use tools like Python, R, SQL, Tableau, and machine learning libraries
Education pathway:
- Grade 12 with Mathematics (Level 6+) and ideally IT/Computer Applications Technology
- BSc in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, or Actuarial Science (3 years)
- Honours or MSc in Data Science, Machine Learning, or Statistics (1–2 years)
- OR: Online certifications (Google Data Analytics Certificate, IBM Data Science Professional)
Where to study in SA: UCT, Stellenbosch, Wits, University of Pretoria, Explore Data Science Academy (Cape Town/Johannesburg)
Salary range: R300,000 – R1,000,000+ per year
SA Role Model: Dr Thuso Simon — Astrophysicist and data scientist at UCT who uses machine learning to study galaxies. His work demonstrates how data science intersects with fundamental science.
Career 4: Biomedical Engineer
What they do: Design and build medical equipment — from prosthetic limbs to MRI machines to heart monitors. They apply engineering principles to solve healthcare problems.
Day-to-day:
- Design medical devices using CAD and simulation software
- Build and test prototypes in labs
- Work with doctors and nurses to understand clinical needs
- Ensure devices meet safety regulations (SAHPRA in South Africa)
- Maintain and repair hospital equipment
Education pathway:
- Grade 12 with Mathematics and Physical Science (Level 6+)
- BEng Biomedical Engineering (4 years) — only offered at a few SA universities
- OR: BEng Electrical/Mechanical Engineering + postgraduate specialisation in biomedical
- MSc or PhD for research and design roles
Where to study in SA: University of Cape Town, Wits, Stellenbosch, Tshwane University of Technology
Salary range: R250,000 – R900,000+ per year
SA Role Model: Dr Tania Douglas — Professor of Biomedical Engineering at UCT who develops affordable medical imaging technology for African hospitals. She has won multiple awards for making healthcare technology accessible.
Career 5: Environmental Scientist
What they do: Study and protect the natural environment. They research pollution, climate change, biodiversity, and water quality, and advise governments and companies on how to reduce environmental damage.
Day-to-day:
- Collect water, soil, and air samples in the field
- Analyse samples in laboratories
- Write environmental impact assessments for new developments
- Monitor endangered species and ecosystems
- Advise mining companies, municipalities, and conservation organisations
- Present findings to government departments
Education pathway:
- Grade 12 with Mathematics, Physical Science, and Life Sciences
- BSc Environmental Science or BSc Ecology (3 years)
- BSc Honours (1 year) — required for most professional positions
- MSc or PhD for research and leadership roles
- Register as a Professional Natural Scientist with SACNASP
Where to study in SA: UCT, Rhodes University (Makhanda), Stellenbosch, University of Pretoria, University of Limpopo, NWU
Salary range: R200,000 – R700,000+ per year
SA Role Model: Dr Coleen Vogel — Leading climate scientist who has advised the South African government on climate change adaptation. She focuses on how climate change affects vulnerable communities.
Career 6: Aerospace Engineer
What they do: Design and build aircraft, satellites, drones, and rockets. South Africa has a growing aerospace industry, including satellite manufacturing and drone technology.
Day-to-day:
- Design aircraft or satellite components using advanced CAD/simulation
- Run computer simulations to test aerodynamics and structural strength
- Build and test prototypes in wind tunnels and laboratories
- Work in teams with other engineers, physicists, and technicians
- Analyse flight data and improve designs
Education pathway:
- Grade 12 with Mathematics and Physical Science (Level 6+)
- BEng Mechanical or Aeronautical Engineering (4 years)
- MSc Aerospace Engineering for specialist roles
- Work experience at companies like Denel, Airbus Africa, or CSIR
Where to study in SA: Wits (Aeronautical Engineering), University of Pretoria, Stellenbosch
Salary range: R300,000 – R1,100,000+ per year
SA Role Model: Mark Shuttleworth — The first South African in space (2002). Before his historic space flight aboard a Russian Soyuz, he founded Thawte (internet security company) and later Canonical (makers of Ubuntu Linux). Proof that SA can reach for the stars — literally.
Career 7: Renewable Energy Technician
What they do: Install, maintain, and repair solar panels, wind turbines, and battery storage systems. This is one of the fastest-growing careers in South Africa due to the energy crisis and push for clean energy.
Day-to-day:
- Install solar panel arrays on rooftops and solar farms
- Wire inverters, batteries, and electrical connections
- Perform maintenance checks and replace faulty components
- Use multimeters and specialised diagnostic tools
- Climb structures (wind turbines, rooftops) — physical fitness required
- Work outdoors in various weather conditions
Education pathway:
- Grade 12 with Mathematics and Physical Science
- National Certificate in Electrical Engineering (TVET college, 3 years + 18 months workplace training)
- OR: Short courses in solar PV installation (GreenCape, SAPVIA accredited)
- Trade test to become a qualified electrician
- Specialise in solar PV, wind, or battery storage
Where to study in SA: TVET colleges nationwide, GreenCape Training Academy, Northlink College, various accredited short-course providers
Salary range: R150,000 – R500,000+ per year (high demand = growing salaries)
SA Role Model: The entire team at SOLA Future Energy — a South African company building some of the largest commercial solar installations in Africa, proving that renewable energy is not just the future, it's the present.
Career 8: Robotics Engineer
What they do: Design, build, and programme robots for manufacturing, mining, healthcare, agriculture, and exploration. In South Africa, robotics is growing fast in mining, agriculture, and manufacturing.
Day-to-day:
- Design robot mechanisms (arms, grippers, wheels, legs)
- Programme robot behaviour using C++, Python, or ROS (Robot Operating System)
- Integrate sensors for navigation, object detection, and decision-making
- Test robots in simulated and real environments
- Work with clients to customise robot solutions
- Troubleshoot mechanical and software issues
Education pathway:
- Grade 12 with Mathematics and Physical Science (Level 6+)
- BEng Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, or Electrical Engineering (4 years)
- OR: National Diploma in Mechatronics (TVET, 3 years)
- MSc in Robotics or Artificial Intelligence for Research & Development roles
- Strong portfolio of robot projects (WRO, personal builds, open-source)
Where to study in SA: Stellenbosch (Mechatronics), University of Pretoria, Wits, NWU, CPUT
Salary range: R250,000 – R900,000+ per year
SA Role Model: The CSIR Robotics Team — The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research in Pretoria develops robots for mining (too dangerous for humans), agriculture (precision farming), and security. They prove that world-class robotics happens right here in South Africa.
"Every robot you build is a problem you solve for someone." — M²P INNOVATION Hub
Career 9: Pharmacist / Pharmaceutical Scientist
What they do: Pharmacists dispense medicine and advise patients. Pharmaceutical scientists research and develop new medicines. Both are critical in a country where healthcare access is a major challenge.
Day-to-day (Pharmacist):
- Dispense prescription and over-the-counter medicines
- Advise patients on correct usage, side effects, and interactions
- Manage medicine stock and storage (temperature-sensitive drugs)
- Compound custom medicines when needed
- Work in hospitals, clinics, or community pharmacies
Day-to-day (Pharmaceutical Scientist):
- Research new drug formulations in laboratories
- Run clinical trials to test safety and effectiveness
- Analyse data from experiments
- Write research papers and patent applications
- Work for pharmaceutical companies, universities, or government research institutes
Education pathway:
- Grade 12 with Mathematics, Physical Science, and Life Sciences (Level 5+)
- BPharm (Pharmacy, 4 years) for pharmacist route
- OR: BSc Chemistry / Biochemistry (3 years) + MSc / PhD Pharmaceutical Sciences for research route
- 1 year community service (pharmacist) + register with SAPC
- Ongoing continuing professional development (CPD)
Where to study in SA: Rhodes University, Wits, UWC, NWU, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, UKZN
Salary range: R250,000 – R800,000+ per year
SA Role Model: Dr Ozayr Mahomed — Public health physician and academic at UKZN who works on making medicine accessible in rural KwaZulu-Natal, combining pharmaceutical science with community health.
Career 10: Cybersecurity Analyst
What they do: Protect computer systems, networks, and data from cyber attacks. With South Africa being one of the most targeted countries for cybercrime, this career is in massive demand.
Day-to-day:
- Monitor networks for suspicious activity using security tools
- Investigate security incidents and breaches
- Set up firewalls, encryption, and access controls
- Conduct penetration testing (ethical hacking) to find vulnerabilities
- Train employees on security best practices
- Write security policies and incident response plans
Education pathway:
- Grade 12 with Mathematics and ideally IT/CAT
- BSc Computer Science or BIS Information Systems (3 years)
- OR: National Diploma in IT (TVET, 3 years)
- Industry certifications: CompTIA Security+, CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker), CISSP (advanced)
- Strong practical skills — Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions, home lab practice
Where to study in SA: University of Johannesburg, Rhodes, NWU, UNISA, Eduvos, CTU Training Solutions
Salary range: R250,000 – R1,200,000+ per year (extreme demand = premium salaries)
SA Role Model: SensePost — A South African cybersecurity firm (now part of Orange Cyberdefense) that has been recognised globally for their ethical hacking expertise. Founded in Pretoria, their researchers have presented at the world's top hacking conferences including DEF CON and Black Hat.
Education Pathways Summary
| Career | Grade 12 Subjects | Minimum Qualification | Years of Study | |--------|-------------------|----------------------|----------------| | Software Developer | Maths, Science | BSc / Diploma / Self-taught | 3–4 | | Civil Engineer | Maths, Science | BEng + Pr.Eng | 4 + 3 work | | Data Scientist | Maths, Science, IT | BSc + Honours/MSc | 4–5 | | Biomedical Engineer | Maths, Science | BEng | 4 | | Environmental Scientist | Maths, Science, Life Science | BSc + Honours | 4 | | Aerospace Engineer | Maths, Science | BEng | 4 | | Renewable Energy Tech | Maths, Science | N Certificate + Trade Test | 3 + 18 months | | Robotics Engineer | Maths, Science | BEng Mechatronics | 4 | | Pharmacist | Maths, Science, Life Science | BPharm | 4 + 1 service | | Cybersecurity Analyst | Maths, IT | BSc / Diploma + Certs | 3–4 |
Common Myths About STEM Careers
"You have to be a genius." No. You have to be curious, persistent, and willing to learn. Most STEM professionals were not the top student in their class — they were the ones who kept trying.
"STEM is only for boys." Absolutely not. South Africa has brilliant women in every STEM field. The country needs MORE women in STEM, and companies actively recruit diverse talent.
"You need an expensive university." Many STEM careers can be entered through TVET colleges, online courses, and practical experience. What matters is what you can DO, not just what degree you hold.
"There are no STEM jobs in South Africa." False. South Africa has a massive shortage of STEM professionals. Many of these careers have unemployment rates near zero — meaning almost everyone who qualifies gets a job.
"You can't study STEM if you come from a rural area." You can. NSFAS funding, bursaries from companies like Sasol, Eskom, and Transnet, and distance learning through UNISA all make it possible. Your postcode does not determine your potential.
These career profiles are provided free by M²P INNOVATION Hub. We believe every learner in Limpopo — and across South Africa — deserves to know what's possible. Print these, share them, and let them dream big.