Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, Singapore’s job market has been struggling (similar to other job markets throughout the world).
Fortunately, though, economic recovery appears to be on the horizon. Things are starting to turn around and the market is slowly but surely picking up once more.
Job prospects are starting to look more positive, and new positions are opening up throughout the country. A lot of job seekers have questions regarding salaries in Singapore, though, and how their education and skill level will influence their salary.
If you’re in this boat, our Singapore salary guide can help. Read on to learn more about the average salaries in Singapore, as well as the skills that can help you land a job with a high salary.
One of the easiest ways to get a sense of the average salary in Singapore is to utilize the GrabJobs Singapore Salary Guide tool.
This tool allows Singapore-based job seekers (as well as those who are planning to relocate to Singapore) to see the top-paying jobs in various industries at a glance. They can also use it to narrow down their search based on specific jobs with specific salary ranges and search for information on any jobs that aren’t listed.
The Singapore Salary Guide Tool provides direct links to job listings in various industries, too. This is great for job seekers who want to streamline their search and have a clear idea of what they’ll be getting into if their application is accepted for a specific job.
What Skills Are in High Demand in Singapore in 2024?
Before we dive into our Singapore salary guide and start talking about numbers, let’s address skills.
Remember, salary is often dependent on job demand and the unique skills and value that an applicant will bring to the company. If you take the time to develop in-demand skills, you’ll have more bargaining power when it comes to negotiating for a higher salary.
Not sure which skills you should be sharpening? Listed below are 10 skills that are gaining importance and becoming highly valuable in the Singapore job market in 2024 and beyond
1. Data Analysis
Why Data Analysis Is in High Demand
Strong data analysis skills allow you to clean, transform, and analyze data to extract valuable insights. It’s used across a range of industries, from marketing to finance.
Relevant Jobs
- Data scientist
- Data analyst
- Business analyst
- Product manager
Where to Learn Data Analysis
There are many places throughout Singapore where you can learn data analysis skills in a year or less, including Lithan Academy and Nanyang Polytechnic.
2. Adobe Photoshop
Why Adobe Photoshop Is in High Demand
Adobe Photoshop is the primary tool businesses throughout Singapore use for editing, content creation, marketing, and more. If you are confident using photoshop, you’ll be a valuable asset to almost any employer.
Relevant Jobs
- Graphic designer
- Marketing specialist
- Web developer
- Photographer
- Production artist
Where to Learn Adobe Photoshop
There are lots of Adobe Photoshop courses you can take to learn the basics and sharpen your skills. For example, Lookeesan Creatives offers a private course, and The Knowledge Academy offers a robust photoshop masterclass.
3. SQL (Structured Query Language)
Why SQL Is in High Demand
SQL is one of the primary tools used in data analysis. As more jobs begin requiring data analysis skills, knowledge of SQL will give you an advantage and increase your chances of getting hired.
Relevant Jobs
- Business analyst
- Software engineer
- Data analyst
- Database administrator
- Quality assurance tester
Where to Learn SQL
There are lots of courses you can take to learn SQL quickly. For example, Intellisoft offers a 2-day course, and The Knowledge Academy offers a helpful introductory course.
4. Javascript
Why Javascript Is in High Demand
Javascript is one of the most popular, in-demand coding languages. If you are fluent in it, so to speak, many doors will be open to you throughout Singapore.
Relevant Jobs
- Software engineer
- Front-end developer
- Full-stack developer
- App developer
Where to Learn Javascript
There are lots of places throughout Singapore that can help you learn Javascript, including Tertiary Courses and General Assembly.
5. Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
Why CRM Is in High Demand
We live in a customer-focused world. The better you are at connecting with customers, building relationships with them, and managing their data effectively, the more job opportunities you’ll find.
Relevant Jobs
- Business analyst
- CRM manager
- Project manager
- Marketing specialist
Where to Learn CRM
The Knowledge Academy is known for offering a helpful customer relationship management course. You can also use platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Udemy to enhance your skills.
6. Communication
Why Communication Is in High Demand
Good communication skills are needed across the board. If you can’t talk to your colleagues and clients with ease (both verbally and in writing), you’ll have a hard time landing a job and rising through the ranks.
Relevant Jobs
- Customer service representative
- Financial advisor
- Human resource manager
- Legal assistant
- Market research analyst
Where to Learn Communication Skills
There are lots of online learning programs that can help you to improve your communication skills, including Udemy and Skillshare.
7. Teamwork
Why Teamwork Is in High Demand
In addition to being a good communicator, your chances of getting hired also improve if you are good at collaborating with others and being part of a team.
Relevant Jobs
- Human resource manager
- Construction manager
- Warehouse worker
- Customer service representative
- Marketing specialist
Where to Learn Teamwork Skills
LinkedIn Learning, Udemy, and Coursera all feature a variety of online courses that you can use to improve your teamwork and collaboration skills.
8. Project Management
Why Project Management Is in High Demand
Good project management skills help you to be an effective leader and ensure projects get done on time and on (or preferably under) budget. All kinds of businesses can benefit from having a talented project manager on staff.
Relevant Jobs
- Project manager
- Business developer
- Operations director
- Business analyst
- Quality assurance tester
Where to Learn Project Management
You can find several helpful project management skills courses through LinkedIn Learning and Coursera.
9. Risk Management and Personal Data Protection
Why Risk Management and Personal Data Protection Are in High Demand
Online security and personal data protection are becoming more important than ever as more businesses begin shifting their services and day-to-day operations online. If you can minimize risk and keep people’s information safe, you’ll be a very valuable employee.
Relevant Jobs
- Data protection officer
- Privacy engineer
- Data privacy manager
Where to Learn Risk Management and Personal Data Protection Skills
Coursera offers several courses related to risk management and personal data protection. InfoSec Institute offers courses as well.
10. Conflict Management
Why Conflict Management Is in High Demand
It’s important to be a good collaborator when you’re trying to get hired in 2021, but you should also be able to manage conflicts appropriately, especially when you’re working in a team environment.
Relevant Jobs
- Program analyst
- Claims adjuster
- Project manager
- Human resources manager
- Business manager
Where to Learn Conflict Management
You can find lots of helpful conflict management courses through Coursera and LinkedIn Learning. EdX and Udemy offer some as well.
What Are the Expected Salary Ranges for the Jobs in Singapore?
Once you’ve sharpened your skills and are ready to start applying for jobs in Singapore, it’s important to know what kind of salary you can expect to earn as a new hire. Listed below are 10 of the country’s most popular jobs, complete with a breakdown of that position’s expected salary range in Singapore:
1. Accountant
- Expected Salary Range: 41K to 61K per year
- Top Companies Hiring for Accountants in Singapore: MatchMove Pay, Cazaja Resources, Engie Energy Marketing Singapore
- Career Prospects: There’s always a strong need for financial experts in Singapore (and throughout the world), and 2024 is no exception. Those who can help both businesses and individuals manage their money will be very valuable and will have an easier time finding work here.
2. Web Developer
- Expected Salary Range: 77K to 120K per year
- Top Companies Hiring for Web Developers in Singapore: The Supreme HR Advisory, SeeMeCV, WLP Consultants
- Career Prospects: The tech industry is booming in Singapore, which means there are lots of openings for web developers. If you have experience with Javascript and other coding languages, as well as other skills like project management and SQL, your prospects look very good.
3. AI Specialist
- Expected Salary Range: 78K to 199K per year
- Top Companies Hiring for AI Specialists in Singapore: C Anna Consultancy, Mediatek Singapore, National University of Singapore
- Career Prospects: As the demand for AI capabilities increases, so will the demand for competent professionals who know how to assist with developing chatbots, building apps, and more.
4. Sales Representative
- Expected Salary Range: 42K to 81K per year
- Top Companies Hiring for Sales Representatives in Singapore: Glue Up, Upstart Business Consultancy, Beyond Rentals
- Career Prospects: It doesn’t matter how good a business’s products or services are if they don’t have good sales reps who can promote them and get people interested in buying them. Talented sales representatives will have lots of options available to them throughout Singapore.
5. Civil Engineer
- Expected Salary Range: 50K to 100K per year
- Top Companies Hiring for Civil Engineers in Singapore: China Harbour Engineering, Gammon PTE, Blue Skyline Construction Development
- Career Prospects: Singapore is known for its impressive infrastructure, and the country’s officials don’t have plans for that reputation to change anytime soon. There’s a strong need for talented civil engineers who can assist in maintaining and improving Singapore’s infrastructure now and in the future.
6. Customer Service Representative
- Expected Salary Range: 25K to 43K per year
- Top Companies Hiring for Customer Service Representatives in Singapore: iCentral Mobile, Achieve Group, Delta Airlines
- Career Prospects: All businesses need help maintaining strong customer relationships and making sure people are happy with their products or services. Customer service representatives, especially those with previous experience in the field, will likely have very little trouble finding jobs in Singapore.
7. Human Resource Manager
- Expected Salary Range: 110K to 170K per year
- Top Companies Hiring for Human Resource Managers in Singapore: Kidz Treehouse by Kowabunga, Staple Food
- Career Prospects: Businesses of all kinds can benefit from the help of a talented and experienced human resource manager who can assist with recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and managing employee relationships.
8. Digital Marketer
- Expected Salary Range: 30K to 48K per year
- Top Companies Hiring for Digital Marketers in Singapore: Surge Advertising, Lions Chambers, Marketingly.sg
- Career Prospects: Lots of businesses need help from talented digital marketers who can help them expand their reach and promote their products or services online. There’s a lot of room for growth (and salary increases) for digital marketers, too, especially as they work their way up to managerial positions.
9. Graphic Designer
- Expected Salary Range: 50K to 80K per year
- Top Companies Hiring for Graphic Designers in Singapore: Ideograph, Golden Bridge Foods Marketing, byCaxs
- Career Prospects: Like digital marketers, businesses also need the help of talented graphic designers who can help them create logos and high-quality marketing materials while also establishing branding plans for the company.
10. Data Analyst
- Expected Salary Range: 53K to 87K per year
- Top Companies Hiring for Data Analysts in Singapore: Bloomberg Singapore, Infineon Technologies Asia Pacific, Citibank Singapore
- Career Prospects: Data analysts are in high demand across a variety of industries, including marketing, finance, tech, and more. There are lots of opportunities in this field for workers who have strong data analysis and SQL skills.
What Is the Average Salary Across Industries in Singapore in 2024?
The average salary in Singapore varies depending on the specific industry in which one works. The following table outlines some of the country’s most well-known industries, along with the expected salary range in Singapore that one can expect when working in those industries:
Profession
Average Salary in Malaysia
Accountant
41K to 61K per year
Finance Manager
150K to 250K per year
Sales Manager
140K to 250K per year
Business Development Manager
140K to 220K per year
Chief Executive Officer
210K to 500K per year
Chief Finance Officer
220K to 520K per year
General Manager
97K to 140K per year
Legal Assistant
57K to 89k per year
Customer Service Manager
92K to 150K per year
Human Resource Manager
110K to 170K per year
Construction Manager
72K to 88K per year
Hospitality/Hotel Manager
74K to 130K per year
Tourism/Travel Agent
37K to 50K per year
IT Manager
200K to 300K per year
Graphic Designer
50K to 80K per year
Civil Engineer
50K to 100K per year
Electrical Engineer
46K to 66K per year
Mechanical Engineer
42K to 58K per year
Aerospace Engineer
51K to 88K per year
Architecture Engineer
47K to 58K per year
What Else Should I Know About Salaries in Singapore?
As our Singapore salary guide comes to a close, let’s wrap up by addressing the lingering questions you might have regarding the average salary in Singapore.
Below are some topics to keep in mind when it comes to calculating your salary and cost of living here. These will come in particularly handy if you’re relocating to Singapore from another country:
Cost of Living
For those who are planning on immigrating to Singapore, it’s important to note that the cost of living here is relatively high, especially if you want to live closer to the central region.
The average single person’s expenses in Singapore total about 800 SGD (or 575 USD) per month, not including rent. For a family of 4, expenses average about 4,400 SGD (or 3,200 USD) per month, not including rent.
Income Taxes
Singapore has a progressive resident tax rate that starts at 0 percent and ends at 22 percent for those who earn over S$320K per year. There is no capital gain tax or inheritance tax here.
Benefits
Typical employee benefits for full-time workers in Singapore include the following:
- Sick leave
- Annual leave
- Maternity leave
- Relocation assistance
- Healthcare benefits
- Retirement contributions
- Housing allowances
- Children’s education allowances
- Childcare benefits
- Transportation reimbursements
Salary Negotiation
There’s always some room for negotiating one’s salary in Singapore. If you want to try and negotiate a higher salary from a potential employer, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use salary comparison tools to find out the average salary for your job
- Use your experience and skills to your advantage
- Consider benefits negotiations in addition to base salary
- Ignore your old salary and focus on what you want to earn now
- Focus on being polite, friendly, and likable while also being firm in your requests.
Final Thoughts
Singapore’s job market is still recovering in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, but things are beginning to look up.
If you’re looking for a new job and have questions about what kind of salary you can expect, or if you’re planning to relocate to Singapore from another country, our Singapore salary guide will help you feel confident as you move into this new chapter of your professional life.
Keep this information in mind and you’ll have a much easier time making plans for the future.
