Singapore

FinTech Jobs & Trends in Singapore: Automation Investigation

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FinTech jobs and trends in Singapore

Welcome to the second part of our Automation Investigation Series. In our previous article, we covered the future of part-time jobs in Singapore. In this article, we’ll be looking at the current and upcoming FinTech jobs and trends in Singapore.

The banking industry worldwide has undergone some rapid changes in recent years in response to disruptive technological advancements. This evolution of financial technology has led to the creation of the FinTech industry and a crossroads between finance and technology.

With banking’s customer base increasingly adopting bleeding-edge technologies, such as peer-to-peer (P2P) lending, blockchain, cryptocurrencies, and individual investment apps, financial institutions have had to drastically change how they approach providing the personalized and modern banking experience their customers want.

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Just under 90% of incumbent financial institutions expect at least some of their current business to be lost to FinTech companies in the near future. In reaction to this potential loss of business, 77% of these businesses will be rapidly increasing their focus on internal FinTech investment over the same period.

Given the rising importance of pursuing new financial technologies, it is unsurprising that Investment in FinTech has also skyrocketed in recent years. Global FinTech investment reached $44 billion in 2020, a 14% increase on the spending total for 2019. FinTech startup companies acquired $25.6 billion in investments during the beginning of 2020.

The importance of Singapore as a regional FinTech hub has caught the attention of the global banking industry, resulting in a 700% rise in foreign venture capital investments since 2015. In fact, the total dollar value of seed/angel investments in FinTech companies based in Singapore was greater than those in both the U.S and China during 2019.

While the Covid pandemic has had a chilling effect on the global FinTech market, Singapore has proved to be remarkably resilient to the current crisis.

While the effect of the pandemic saw the value of other industries crash, 66% of FinTech companies actually saw an increase in demand for their services during the outbreak. Going forward, 40% of FinTech companies believed this sudden surge in demand will continue beyond the current pandemic.

However, FinTech continues to be a rapidly evolving and maturing sector, and the local financial services industry will need to rapidly adapt to future banking and FinTech trends in Singapore in order to stay on top.

Today, we’ll be looking at what those trends are, how businesses in Singapore are adjusting to overcome these challenges, and how workers can adapt to the knock-on changes to the employment market.

What Are the Top 9 FinTech Trends Coming in Singapore?

Given the scope of the Covid-19 pandemic, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that it has had a significant impact on the global banking and FinTech jobs sector. The majority of the upcoming banking and FinTech trends in Singapore have been shaped by changing customer behavior patterns and the need for cost controls and business streamlining.

Outside of the impact of the pandemic, the primary drivers for disruption in the banking and FinTech sectors are the need to leverage the power of big data, and traditional banking institutions looking to expand into FinTech, either in-house or through collaborative partnerships.

We’ve put together a comprehensive list of the most discussed banking and FinTech trends in Singapore. These trends reflect how the global banking and finance industry is evolving to meet changing customer expectations and the challenges of a post-pandemic world.

A Customer-Centric Approach

The rapid growth and proliferation of FinTech jobs in recent years has created a crowded market where customer retention is the key to success. One of the primary FinTech trends to emerge in recent years is the need to provide a high-quality customer experience in order to remain competitive.

At the same time, modern digital customers have less and less patience for the lengthy process of form filling associated with the banking and finance industry. In response, FinTech companies are reassessing their digital offerings and the customer experience they provide.

A new emphasis has been on reducing friction and eliminating pain-points from the FinTech customer’s journey. To accomplish this, many FinTech companies are looking to create a unified digital solution. 

These new solutions streamline the customer experience and do away with tedious manual processes, replacing them with digital document viewing and signing, digital data capture, and increased automation to cover routine tasks.

A Focus on ‘Digital-First’

With the pandemic resulting in a rapid decrease in face-to-face interactions, customers are now looking for banks and financial institutions to provide them with user-friendly digital-first experiences.

Social distancing measures rapidly altered how banks and FinTech companies were able to interact with their customers, requiring an accelerated pivot to digital banking. Despite the rapidity of this change, customers still expect the same level of service, regardless of which channels they are communicating through.

Those banks and FinTech companies that are able to provide a reliable, easy-to-use, digital-first experience are poised to gain a larger share of the financial services market.

Just as customer expectations have changed in relation to the pandemic, how the FinTech jobs operate has also permanently shifted. Around 40% of employees are expected to continue working remotely on a semi-permanent basis as of the beginning of 2021.

In response to a more distributed workforce, financial organizations will need to implement accessible digital tools to allow communication, collaboration, and access to data. Those relying on workarounds run the risk of compromising their data security and increasing the likelihood of errors occurring.

The Importance of Big Data

Data management has emerged as one of the important FinTech trends for 2021 and beyond. Banking and FinTech companies gather huge amounts of data during their day-to-day operations.

This can be in the form of structured data, such as loan applications, tax documents, and bank statements, or unstructured data, such as customer feedback. Proper analysis and use of big data is key to identifying opportunities for growth and the optimization of services and products to meet changing customer needs.

To turn the raw data into actionable insights, FinTech companies are investing in data extraction apps that include image cleanup and text reconstruction functions to deal with damaged documents. Once the data has been extracted and sorted, artificial intelligence (A.I) has emerged as a critical tool for big data analytics.

Using A.I to analyze data means companies can free up skilled staff from basic data analytics and continue to extract insights from data on a 24/7 basis.

Future Crisis Proofing

The Covid-19 pandemic highlights endemic weaknesses across a huge range of industries. Many businesses are now scrambling to future-proof their operations against similar crises down the line.

However, many financial institutions are now looking at implementing electronic data capture processes and paperless mechanisms to pandemic proof their services. New solutions need to be created that aren’t reliant on pen and paper or face-to-face meetings in order to onboard new customers or serve existing ones.

Collaborative Partnerships

With 90% of incumbent financial institutions expecting to lose some of their business to FinTech companies in the near future, many are looking to partner with innovative FinTech startups. These collaborative partnerships allow established banking institutions to reach new customers through new channels and offer funding and stability to new startups.

However, in order to facilitate these partnerships, both banks and FinTech startups will need to invest in flexible software solutions that allow for open communication and data exchanges. FinTech developers will therefore play a key role in helping companies adapt legacy systems or create entirely new ones.

The Growth of Cloud Platforms

Cloud-based platforms have become a priority for many industries in light of the Covid-19 pandemic. Given the changes created by the pandemic, many companies have brought forward or increased investments in cloud-based digital platforms.

Cloud-based products and services have become a significant banking trend as traditional banking incumbents look to claw back the market share taken by innovative FinTech companies in recent years.

AI as a Tool for Personalization

As we mentioned earlier AI is an excellent tool for data analysis. Less prone to human error, able to run constantly, and capable of freeing staff up for more complex tasks where the human touch is needed, AI is able to turn unstructured data into valuable customer insights.

Able to discern spending patterns, investment profiles, and specific financial situations, AI analysis arms companies with the data they need to fully personalize their services to each customer.

As a banking trend, greater personalization leads to better visitor engagement, an improved customer experience, better brand perception, increased conversion rates, and more effective lead generation and customer acquisition.

Fintech-as-a-Service Platforms

While the collaborative partnerships we mentioned above are an excellent opportunity for both incumbent banking institutions and innovative FinTech startups, the primary barrier to these partnerships working is often a technological one.

Fintech-as-a-Service Platforms bridge the gap between banks and their FinTech partners, providing a cloud-based platform that facilitates automated clearing house functions and transaction processing in a modular and scalable manner.

This allows mid-size banks the option to purchase the infrastructure needed to partner with FinTech companies without a time-consuming and expensive in-house development process.

How Are Businesses in Singapore’s Banking and FinTech Industries Likely to Transform Because of These Trends?

Now that we’ve highlighted some of the Banking and FinTech trends in Singapore, we’ll assess how Singapore’s banking and FinTech industries are likely to adapt to these changes in how the finance industry operates.

Greater Digitisation

Many of the trends we’ve listed above can be summed up under the banner of ‘greater digitization.’ In response to the need for stronger digital products and services, many companies will be looking to invest in developers or startups who can bolster their digital presence.

The movement of the Singapore financial sector towards greater digitization can be seen in the recent granting of the first digital banking licenses by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.

These licenses will be granted to the consortium of Grab Holdings Inc and Singtel, tech giant Sea, the Ant Group, and a consortium comprising Greenland Financial Holdings, Linklogis Hong Kong, and Beijing Co-operative Equity Investment Fund Management.

Grab-Singtel and Sea will be licensed as full digital banks, able to offer bank accounts, debit and credit cards, and other traditional banking services. The Greenland Consortium and the Ant Group were licensed as wholesale digital banks with a focus on supporting small businesses. None of the companies selected will be required to have a physical presence in Singapore.

The pressure created by the inception of these digital-only banks will almost certainly increase the rate at which other banking institutions are forced to digitize their products and services or risk being left behind.

A Focus on Small Businesses and PMETs

Despite being a regional hub for the banking industry, around 40% of Singapore residents remain underbanked. As the market becomes more crowded with FinTech offerings, both new players and existing financial institutions will be looking for new customers and new market segments to expand into.

The most commonly underbanked segments in Singapore are professionals, managers, executives, and technicians (PMETs), who lack the time to browse for effective banking services and micro-SMEs and gig workers whose flexible incomes often disbar them from traditional banking solutions.

Newer FinTech companies are overcoming the traditional barriers faced by SMEs seeking banking services, such as lack of credit history, but using innovative solutions such as using users’ consumption habits to determine their creditworthiness.

As new companies actively target PMETs, gig workers, and SMEs, existing financial providers will need to adapt or risk losing access to a potentially valuable market segment.

Growing the Talent Pool

Traditionally, the banking and FinTech industries have recruited highly skilled workers away from their competitors. As Singapore continues to build itself as a hub for banking and financial services, continuing to expect to recruit from competitors could result in a significant skills shortage.

In response to this potential skill shortage, FinTech companies are rethinking how they handle their talent pipeline. In-house retraining and upskilling have become a primary focus for many financial services providers.

The benefit of in-house training is that it allows companies to create a more flexible workforce with the potential to fill any talent gaps and offer career development and retraining options as recruitment tools.

More Comprehensive Investment in Technology

In line with the move towards greater digitization, companies are expected to invest in the trend towards automation, cloud management, and data exchange, also known as Industry 4.0.

Three of the most common technologies in which the FinTech and banking industries are investing are:

Blockchain

As of 2020, the market share of blockchain in banking rose to 29.7. Blockchain’s ability to process instant, secure, and traceable transactions, without the need for third-party validation, offers the opportunity to make financial transactions more efficient and less costly.

Both FinTech startups and established financial institutions are looking to invest in blockchain technology, learning to a predicted 14% growth in Singapore’s blockchain talent market over the next five years. Additionally, 75% of financial institutions are expected to incorporate blockchain into their systems by 2021

The importance of blockchain technology in the growing FinTech market means that FinTech job roles such as blockchain engineers or blockchain project managers will be increasingly in demand.

RPA

Robotic Process Automation (RPA) or the use of software to automate repetitive and labor-intensive tasks such as simple data entry offers financial providers a range of benefits. RPA means these repetitive tasks can be run almost continuously without the risk of human error. Staff can then be freed up to take on jobs that require the human touch.

While greater use of RPA does result in a drop in middle-skill occupations that require manual labor, there is always a resulting rise in the number of high-skill occupations like software developers and computer engineers who design, create, and implement the RPA solutions.

Cloud Computing

Over the last few years, cloud computing has shifted from an industry buzzword to a $241 billion global industry. Within Singapore, the cloud industry is expected to add SGD41 billion to the total GDP and create 22,000 new jobs just over the next five years.

As most financial services focus on creating and integrating cloud-based services, cloud engineers and developers will also become heavily sought-after roles.

How Can Job Seekers in Singapore Respond to These Trends and Business Transformations in the Banking and FinTech Industries?

As a disruptive industry based on the intersection of financial services and technology, FinTech is a constantly evolving and maturing work environment. While the incumbent banking industry is more established, the disruptive influence of FinTech is causing many large financial institutions to pivot rapidly to avoid losing business.

The trends we’ve listed above represent an opportunity for job seekers in Singapore to position themselves in order to take advantage of newly valuable skill sets of training and advancement opportunities.

To help out, we’ve listed a few ways in which you can respond to these trends and business transformations in the banking and FinTech industries to make yourself more employable.

Position Yourself to Become Valuable

Education and upskilling take time and in a rapidly evolving industry like banking and FinTech it can be easy for your skills to become redundant much faster than in other industries. 

Thankfully the Singapore Ministry of Trade and Industry has created Industry Transformation Maps (ITMs) for 23 industries, including finance.

The ITMs, developed in collaboration with small and large firms, Trade Associations and Chambers (TACs), and unions, highlight which skills and qualifications will be the most valuable across those 23 industries over the next ten years.

Using the relevant ITM to map out your education and training gives you a roadmap to building a valuable and sought-after skill set that will hugely improve your employability.

Be Open to New Career Opportunities

While a rapidly fast-paced industry like banking and FinTech creates new job opportunities as it evolves, grasping those opportunities means being flexible enough to take on new transferable skills and experiences and apply them to new roles.

While hard skills and qualifications tend to only apply to one role, cultivating softer skills such as the ability to work in an agile manner, open-mindedness, excellent communication skills, and adaptability are more transferable and add value to your resume.

Because FinTech is a synergy of two distinct sectors, having a background in either could ensure you a place in a FinTech company looking for specific skills. Having experience of working in a bank might be valuable to a technology-forward company looking for someone with experience in the banking industry.

Likewise, a skill set based on a deep understanding of a certain emergent technology, such as blockchain or AI, can make you very valuable to a company that seems to be wholly focused on finance.

Look at the Industry as a Whole

Understandably, many people looking for a role in the FinTech industry often assume you need to be an expert in finance or a certain technology in order to be employable. However, as with any industry, there are a multitude of supportive roles that are vital to the effective running of a business.

As Singapore continues to establish itself as a regional hub for banking and financial services, there will be an increased need for marketing personnel, HR advisors, risk management professionals, data analysts, customer experience designers, customer service representatives, and a whole range of other roles.

In fact, as the industry trends towards creating a more streamlined and personalized experience to suit the changing needs of the modern customer, many FinTech companies will require marketing and customer service experts as much as systems developers.

What are the top future jobs in Banking and FinTech for 2021 and beyond?

Now we’ve given you some easy to implement tips on how to position yourself to take advantage of the upcoming trends in Singapore’s banking and FinTech sector, here are some of the most sought after positions in the industry for 2021 and beyond:

Cybersecurity Expert

Cybercrime is one of the most significant challenges facing the financial sector. Around 90% of financial institutions reported being targeted by malware in 2018. During that same time, Ransomware attacks rose by 350%, damaging business to the cost of $6 trillion annually by 2021.

During the COVID-19 Pandemic, attempted cybercrime rose by over 600%, mostly in the guise of sophisticated phishing email schemes. Phishing emails are still the most common way in which cybercriminals gain access to restricted information during a data breach.  

Banks were the target 47% of financial data breaches, while the financial sector as a whole experienced 137 breaches in 2018 that exposed 1.7 million accounts. The largest data breach in the financial sector was the 2017 Equifax data breach that exposed the private data of 147.9 million Americans and cost the company $87.5 million.

The huge rise in cybercrime in recent years, much of it aimed at the financial sector, has led to a huge surge in demand for cybersecurity professionals. While the need for cybersecurity experts is at an all-time high, there are projected to be 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity positions by 2021 in one of the largest skill gaps to affect the banking and FinTech industry.

Responsibilities:

  • Establishing internal control measures to prevent criminal activity and addressing any current or projected systems vulnerabilities.
  • Reacting to cyber attacks and putting in place proactive measures to prevent loss of service.
  • Continually developing security measures to combat new threats and new techniques being employed by cybercriminals.
  • Staying up to date with the evolving threat represented by malware, ransomware, phishing techniques, social manipulation techniques, and direct attacks.

👉 Browse Cybersecurity Jobs on GrabJobs

Blockchain Developer

Distributed ledger technology, such as blockchain eliminates the need for third-party moderation, making transactions faster and more cost-effective.

The immutable nature of blockchain technology, combined with data encryption, makes sure data remains secure while the transparency of a public ledger increases visibility.

Streamlined, secure, and cost-effective, blockchain technology has become the basis on which many decentralized FinTech apps have been built and has multiple use-case applications across the entire industry.

Singapore’s blockchain talent market is expected to grow by 14% over the next five years in response to the greater demand for blockchain developers and, given the wider interest in blockchain across multiple industries, the qualifications and experience are hugely versatile.

Responsibilities:

  • Creating and implementing application features and interfaces using various programming languages.
  • Working closely with managers to map out the needs and functionalities for potential blockchain applications.
  • Maintaining client and server-side applications.
  • Educating sales and marketing staff on the benefits of blockchain and its ability to allow secure, anonymous, decentralized digital payments.

👉 Browse Blockchain Jobs on GrabJobs

Risk Assessors

The integration of the banking and FinTech industries through collaborative partnerships and the pursuit of digital bank charters has intertwined the two sectors in an unprecedented manner.

As with any unprecedented evolution of an industry, new rules and regulations are created and put in place to qualify how these new institutions are allowed to operate. As the industry evolves at pace, risk assessors are required to mitigate risks by understanding and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.

Additionally, as FinTech companies and incumbent banking institutions target underdeveloped market sectors, such as SMEs and gig workers, risk control managers are needed to develop new risk management strategies that account for new types of customers.

Responsibilities:

  • Conducting data analytics to identify current and potential vulnerabilities.
  • Putting in place risk management policies and reaction strategies.
  • Ensuring total compliance with all regulatory bodies and staying abreast of current and upcoming regulations.
  • Use anti-money laundering software and liaise with cybersecurity experts to help to prevent financial crimes.

👉 Browse Risk Assessment Jobs on GrabJobs

Data Analysts

The financial industry processes trillions of online transactions every year, including purchases, bookings, subscriptions, payments, transfers, and trades. As we mentioned earlier, big data analytics has become a major trend in the banking and financial services industry.

Data analysts are able to take the huge amount of data generated by financial companies and turn it into actionable insights that help to improve products, create new services and improve the customer experience.

A closely related field is that of data visualization, which is a mixture of data analytics and marking. Data visualizers use data-driven storytelling and insights developed from customer feedback to influence customer behavior.

While data analysts are in huge demand in the financial industry, the skills and qualifications are transferable to a huge range of sectors. 

Responsibilities:

  • Collecting and interpreting financial data and analyzing the results.
  • Identifying patterns and trends in discrete data sets.
  • Applying insights derived from data analysis to product and service development.
  • Creating new and innovative data collection and analysis procedures.

👉 Browse Data Analysis Jobs on GrabJobs

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Experts

With digital transformation being one of the key banking and FinTech trends to emerge in recent years, cutting-edge technologies such as AI and machine learning (ML) have gone from being science fiction devices to viable business priorities.

While true AI, the replication of human intelligence through software, is still far beyond our reach, current AI software, coupled with the ability to learn simple rules through ML, has a multitude of applications across the financial services sector.

At the lower end, chatbots and robo-advisors help to reduce staff costs and increase customer service coverage and customer retention. More complicated AI applications including using anti-money laundering transaction monitoring software that scans millions of transactions a day to identify criminal behavior.

AI integration into FinTech is still reasonably new, but its positive benefits are already prompting an increased demand for artificial intelligence and machine learning experts. Given the current rarity of this kind of expertise, there is already a skill gap developing, with 42% of organizations reporting a shortage of AI talent.

Responsibilities:

  • Use deep-learning algorithms and Natural Language Processing (NLP) to create AI and ML software solutions.
  • Create solutions to various business challenges using AI software.
  • Educate C-suite executives on the potential benefits and limitations of AI systems.
  • Provide training for teams on the best practices for the implementation and use of AI software.

👉 Browse AI Jobs and Machine Learning Jobs on GrabJobs

Quantitative Analyst

A quantitative analyst, sometimes known as a “quant” is a specialist data analyst who uses mathematical and statistical methods to solve financial and risk management problems. Quants create predictive models based on available data that banking and FinTech firms use to make business, financial, and investment decisions.

The role of Quant is the research,  development, and implementation of mathematical models that both identify opportunities for investment and ways to mitigate risk in an industry that is characterized by constant change and innovation.

While the role of a quantitative analyst is intellectually demanding, requiring the applicant to be able to thrive under considerable pressure with little or no oversight, the rewards for this highly-sought-after specialism can be significant.

Responsibilities:

  • Research and analyze data, trends, and statistics to make modeling decisions.
  • Develop and implement new model specifications and methods of data collection.
  • Present and interpret data results for clients and members of senior management.
  • Modify existing financial models that are in use to represent new insights or sources of data.

👉 Browse Quantitative Analyst Jobs on GrabJobs

Business Development Manager

Business development managers are responsible for the sales and marketing side of the banking and FinTech industry. Whether it’s an established banking provider with centuries of history or an innovative new FinTech startup with cutting-edge technology, somebody needs to sell it to the customers.

The role of the business development manager requires excellent communication and interpersonal skills along with a comprehensive understanding of the company’s products and services. You’ll need to be able to explain what your company offers and how it can benefit the client in terms anyone can understand and find attractive.

As a business manager, you’ll always be on the lookout for new markets, opportunities for new business partnerships, and exploring new ways to tap into existing markets.

Responsibilities: 

  • Use sales and marketing techniques to sell FinTech and banking products and services.
  • Research new market opportunities and develop them with proactive business models.
  • Develop new business accounts and nurture existing ones.
  • Present and explain complicated FinTech products and services in an approachable and understandable manner.

👉 Browse Business Development Jobs on GrabJobs

New Trends in Singapore's Banking and FinTech Industry Create New Employment Opportunities

The banking and FinTech industry in Singapore is booming. Having weathered the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic with remarkable resilience Singapore is now set to cement its position as a regional finance hub for the lucrative South East Asian market.

As the banking and FinTech industry reacts to global financial trends in 2021 and beyond, certain skill sets and qualifications will become highly valued in the new banking paradigm.

New trends like big data analytics will increase demand for data and quantitative analysts while the wider adoption of cutting-edge technologies like cloud-based platforms, artificial intelligence, and blockchain means that more positions will open up for experts in those areas.

By reading our guide, you’ll be able to position yourself to stand out to banking and FinTech employers and access some best banking jobs in Singapore.

So, whether you’re a graduate looking for your first job in the banking and FinTech industry or you’re looking for the information you need to develop your career, GrabJobs is here to help you thrive!

Automation Investigation: Future of Part Time Jobs in Singapore

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Future of part-time jobs in Singapore

Welcome to the first instalment of our Automation Investigation Series, in which we will be discussing the future of part time jobs in Singapore. The global rise in AI technology and an increasingly prevalent shift towards automated processes in general, is now ushering in a dramatic shift in our employment ecosystem. In this series, we will be talking about the effect of automation on part time jobs across Singapore’s key industries. We will be asking how part time work will be affected in Singapore, as predicted automation continues to take hold.

If you’re currently in part time work or concerned about how automation might impact current and future employment opportunities, you’ve come to the right place. Here you can find out more about the different types of part time employment and how automation is set to impact your own industry. 

Find out how today’s automation trends can impact you and your job prospects as innovations continue to take hold on a more foundational and permanent basis. Take a look at how the future of part-time jobs in Singapore is expected to change too!

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The essential ethos behind predictive automated processes is efficiency. AI and workplace automation tools are designed to make teams more productive. In other words, automation allows more work to happen in less time and with less human error along the way. Whilst this is an exciting advancement, and certainly fantastic news for business growth and scalability, the sheer power of automation can be daunting for employees who may fear that there may soon come a time when their skill sets are made redundant by these remarkable technologies.

54% of the Singaporean population now believes that their employable skills will be made obsolete or significantly changed by automation within a period of ten years.

This state of national anxiety is causing workers to undervalue their own professional labour value. Due to the threat of automation, Singaporeans (60%) admit to accepting lower-level positions in alternative companies or industrie. They attribute this to fear that their previous jobs would soon become obsolete to automation. And that’s a notably higher portion of the population than the global average of just 47%. 

Instead of undervaluing our professional potential, it’s time to embrace those skills that will become important after automation takes permanent root and becomes of mainstay for a myriad of part time jobs in Singapore. 

We’re going to help you future-proof your employability in Singapore right now and into the future via two different approaches. We’ll be asking (a) what skills do you need to secure employment in the post digitisation workplace? And (b) what are some future-proof part time jobs in Singapore that promise a few years of secure employment or, in fact, may never be taken over by technology at all?

What are the different categories of part time jobs in Singapore?

No part-time job in Singapore is the same. Future-proofing your employment will look different depending on your particular industry and job-type. Before we discuss the building blocks of future employment stability, we need to better understand the building blocks of different part-time job types in the here and now. This way, you will be better able to identify your current employment environment and the extent to which technology is (or isn’t) set to play a role in its future development.

We’ve put together a comprehensive list of part-time jobs in Singapore most typical employment jobs by category. Take a look through this list and identify your industry and specialism. We’ll provide a detailed elaboration as well as plenty of examples.

We suggest that you pay particular attention to the key characteristics of each part-time job  in Singapore. Why? Because this is one of the biggest indicators of how technology may become incumbent on your job’s future. For example, if human emotional intelligence is crucial for your role, it’s far less likely that your job will be completely replaced by automation any time soon. Even today’s most complex robots can’t compete with human empathy.

Retail

Retail comprises those jobs that involve selling consumer goods or services. It could be in-store, or (as is increasingly becoming the norm) online through e-commerce retail outlets. Retailers and those that work in the retail industry satisfy consumer demand. But retail encompasses a whole array of different processes along a supply train. Unlike wholesalers, retailers supply products or services directly to their intended end-users. That could take the form of clothing, groceries, gadgets, or even services and recreational activities.

Examples

  • Brand ambassador
  • Inventory associate
  • Merchandiser
  • Retail assistant
  • Store supervisor
  • Retail manager
  • Purchaser
  • Cashier

Key Characteristics

Retail jobs require emotional intelligence, people skills and patience, resilience and an aptitude for multitasking.

Food and Beverage

The Food and Beverage industry includes all eating and drinking establishments and their associated roles. That includes service-oriented cafeteria jobs, fast-food jobs, and catering roles, as well as the manufacturing, packaging, and distribution of food and beverage items along the supply chain.

Examples

  • Baker
  • Barista
  • Bartender
  • Café Assistant
  • Catering
  • Hosting
  • Kitchen staff
  • Restaurant Manager
  • Chef / Sous Chef
  • Waiter / Waitress
  • Bar Manger
  • Steward
  • Cashier

Key Characteristics

Food and Beverage part-time jobs in Singapore require leadership skills, financial acumen, and emotional intelligence (for customer-facing roles).

Hospitality and Tourism

Hospitality and Tourism form part of the overall services industry but relate specifically to any role that facilitates the, transportation, lodging and entertainment of tourists and guests. 

Examples

  • Bellman
  • Duty Manager
  • Front Office
  • Laundry Attendant
  • Reservations Officer
  • Concierge
  • Front Desk
  • Guest Services
  • Hotel jobs
  • Linen Attendant
  • Receptionist
  • Housekeeper

Key Characteristics

These part-time jobs in Singapore require organisation, communication skills, and often require professional safety and hygiene qualifications.

Manufacturing, Logistics and Supply Chain

The Manufacturing industry comprises those jobs that turn raw materials into products or the installation and repair of industrial equipment. It involves the fabrication, processing, and preparation of products from raw materials to usable goods. Logistics and supply chain roles support and optimise business processes across companies and delivery fulfilment to customers. This industry supports the efficient and competitive storage, movement, and distribution of goods and services in and out of any given business or organisation.

Examples

  • Logistics Associate
  • Purchasing
  • Operations Manager
  • Supply Chain Manager
  • Courier
  • Rider
  • Delivery
  • Driver
  • Packer
  • Warehouse Associate
  • Warehouse Manager
  • Production jobs
  • Operator jobs
  • Quality Assurance

Key Characteristics

Manufacturing workers require critical thinking skills, and an interest and aptitude for technological innovation and processes. Logistics and Supply Chain employees must be highly organised, efficient, and detail-oriented. Customer facing roles also require interpersonal skills.

Procurement

Procurement jobs involve the evaluation of products, their suppliers and services. Workers are responsible for negotiating contracts and improving the overall efficiency, quality,  and cost-effectiveness of purchases.

Examples

  • Buyer
  • Procurement Associate

Key Characteristics

Employees in the procurement sector require exceptional negotiation and communication skills. They also require the ability to foster loyal, enterprising relationships with organisations and suppliers.

Shipping and Maritime

Shipping and Maritime jobs encompass any enterprise relating to the sea, maritime trading, and naval administrations. For example, any role that involves ports, oil rigs, ships and other marine vessels.

Examples

  • Freight jobs
  • Seaman
  • Oil Driller
  • Shipping and Freight Broker

Key Characteristics

Maritime workers require a high level of physical fitness and stamina, as well as the ability to problem solve and resolve important technical problems or equipment failures.

Admin and Operations

Administrative and operational jobs involve the planning, coordination, and direction of administrative services for any given organisation. This usually includes everything from customer liaison to inventory management and office administration.

Examples

  • Admin assistant
  • Data Entry
  • Office Assistant
  • Operations Manager
  • Operations Assistant
  • Associate
  • Executive Assistant
  • Personal Assistant

Key Characteristics

Administrators require conceptual skill alongside a high level of attention to detail and organisation in order to keep an organisation running smoothly day to day.

Beauty and Fitness

The beauty and wellness industry employs many part time workers in various roles involving beaty, health, and wellbeing. Typically these roles involve the provision of therapeutic treatments and aesthetic work such as facials, massage, and makeup.

Examples

  • Beauty Consultant
  • Makeup artist
  • Spa jobs
  • Hair Stylist
  • Beauty Therapist
  • Personal trainer
  • Gym Coordinator
  • Nutritionist
  • Recreation jobs

Key Characteristics

Health and beauty therapists and training providers are responsible for creating a safe, open environment for their clients and require great people skills, empathy, and attentiveness.

Construction and maintenance

The construction sector is a broad sector that encompasses both residential, commercial, and industrial building and maintenance projects. It could include any work that pertains to the building or upkeep of homes, business premises, public infrastructure and/or utility systems.

Examples

  • Surveyor
  • Contractor
  • Construction Worker
  • Cad/ Auto-Cad jobs
  • Project management
  • Groundsman
  • Handyman
  • Plumber
  • Electrician
  • Cleaner
  • Housekeeper
  • Mover

Key Characteristics

Construction workers require a range of skills from technological aptitude to excellent communication and physical strength and dexterity.

Government and Public Services

Government and public service jobs are wide ranging. Each role contributes to the maintenance of social order, national safety, quality of public life and local communities.

Examples

  • Library jobs
  • Social Worker
  • City Planner
  • Public Health
  • Law Enforcement
  • School Teacher
  • Special Education
  • Disability Services

Key Characteristics

Public service workers serve their communities and the people living under local or regional jurisdictions. To work in the Public sector individuals need to be organised, team workers with excellent interpersonal skills and leadership attributes.

HR and Recruitment

Human Resources and recruitment roles pertain to the attracting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, onboarding, and engagement of employees in a given institution. These roles are essential for keeping organisations running smoothly and appropriately staffed at all times.

Examples

  • HR Associate
  • Recruitment Associate
  • Talen Acquisition
  • HR Manager

Key Characteristics

HR and Recruitment professionals require top-quality communication skills, as well as an impartial and objective approach to employees.

Sales, Marketing, & Events

This division of work involves those operations and activities that lead to the sale of goods and services. It tends to pull in the revenue for any business. 

Examples

  • Sales Associate
  • Sales Coordinator
  • Business Development
  • Telemarketing
  • Call Centre Agent
  • Public Relations (PR)
  • Marketing Associate/ Manager
  • Social Media Associate/ Manager
  • Event Promoter
  • Customer Service
  • SEO specialist

Key Characteristics

Key attributes in marketing, sales, and events include attention to detail, customer-focus, operational excellence and agility.

Healthcare & Clinical Services

Healthcare jobs pertain to any kind of clinical service from diagnostic services to therapeutic and support services, to research and development.

Examples

  • Emergency Services
  • Clinical Assistant
  • Radiographer
  • Nurse
  • Doctor
  • Pharmacist
  • Care Worker

Key Characteristics

Healthcare workers require a high level of professional training as well as emotional stability and empathy for dealing with vulnerable patients.

Professional services -Legal, Compliance, Finance

Professional services include lawyers, accountants, architects, financial professionals, engineers and consultants. They provide professional knowledge-based services to clients.

Examples

  • Compliance Associate
  • Lawyer
  • Architect
  • Accountant
  • Analyst
  • Financial Consultant
  • Insurance Agent
  • Bank Clerk
  • Risk Manager

Key Characteristics

Employees in the professional services require not only professional training but an aptitude for technology, continued learning, and emotional intelligence for client cantered roles.

What are some key automation trends I should know?

If you’ve been feeling concerned about how automation might impact your job in the near future, getting informed about current automation trends is a great way to stay one step ahead of the curve. 

Check out this list of the biggest automation trends hitting Asia-Pacific in the next few years.

AI & RPA

The automation market is dominated by two leading technologies. AI (or Artificial intelligence) and RPA (Robotic Process Automation). AI improves decision making. It makes complex decision making faster and more accurate, by using data-driven metrics and analysis that eliminates human error. RPA , on the other hand, is using robotics to  transform repetitive manual processes – on a production line for example. Whilst AI & RPA automations are slowly taking over previously manual tasks, they are also widening employment opportunities for some. Employees with RPA and AI skills are now in high demand across the region.

IT/ OT CONVERGENCE FOR OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY

Information Technology (IT) and Operations Technology (OT) are converging to fuel widescale digital transformations across industries. IT refers to any process relating to computer technologies. That means your everyday hardware and software. Operations technology is what drives physical processes – transport control systems for example. By combining IT and OT, industries are giving themselves access to more information and streamlining processes through tight integrations. In other words, digitised processes are creating interoperability, flexibility, efficiency, accuracy, and profitability. Convergence can help improve cybersecurity, power-automation integration, production processes, and even sustainable manufacturing.

REMOTE OPERATIONS

Automation is fuelling the rise of remote working worldwide. Thanks to the innovative solutions being provided by Automation and IT suppliers, more and more companies and organizations are stepping up and offering remote working opportunities for their employees. Automation now makes it possible to maintain a connected workforce, in a cyber-secure, online environment. Even though CEO, managers, and staff may be is disparate locations, real-time visibility, sharing, and controls make it possible to keep operations running smoothly.

What’s more, research now suggests that remote working might even improve efficiency by heling companies maximise on novel workflow processes (AR for example). The covid-19 pandemic has catalysed this growing trend only further. It would now appear that many businesses will continue to utilise remote operations. And Singapore’s workers agree. According to a recent survey of 9000 respondents across 90 companies, nine out of ten Singaporeans want to keep working remotely in some capacity.

AUTOMATION TO AUTONOMOUS

Manufacturers are moving from automated operations to autonomous operations. But what’s the difference? Think of it like a car. Your car is a mechanical system that operated a vehicle. But you’re still in control. Your car is the automated operation. Now think of a Tesla. A Tesla is still a car. But it’s a self-driving system that responds to its environment intuitively without external supervision. In other words, it is autonomous.

When it comes to industry, autonomous operations allows manufacturers to use their workers time more efficiently, on high-value tasks. Autonomous systems mean that low level tasks no longer require human operators. Autonomous systems will soon be replacing human-made decision making supported by precision real-time data, machine learning, and AI.

THE RISE OF IoT

The Internet of Things (or IoT for short) is a massive emerging trend in automation. Crazy as it sounds, you can think of IoT as the process by which objects talk to one another. In other words, devices (connected to the internet) are all connected. These devices constantly share information and automated tools can mobilise this information, analyse it, learn, and use it to enhance operational functions.

And you’ve probably encountered IoT already. Take FitBits, for example. These popular smart-fitness watches are connected to the internet and use sensors to communicate precision data. Other everyday examples include smart home devices like Amazon Alexa. But IoT isn’t just a fun consumer gadget. It’s also transforming industrial practices in many ways. Examples of IoT in industry include autonomous farming equipment, smart factory equipment, shipping container logistics tracking, biometric cybersecurity, and smart inventory management tools.

EDGE COMPUTING

IBM describes Edge computing technology as a ‘distributed computing framework that brings enterprise applications closer to data sources such as IoT devices or local edge servers’. Edge computing offers many benefits including speedy response times and better bandwidth. This technology is on the rise and Edge automation is now making it easier to integrate Edge computing into the workplace without any need for highly specialised IT personnel to support it. Edge automation platforms run continuously and can be used to improve industrial processes, reduce costs, and save time.

How will automation affect the future of part time jobs in Singapore?

Automation is bringing about foundational, structural change in Singapore and the world over. As such, it will undoubtedly be felt across all levels and sectors of the workforce. The future of part time jobs in Singapore may change dramatically over the next decade. Depending on your particular line of work, as automation takes hold, the type of occupations (and the type of skills needed by employees) will more than likely also change.

In a study published by the Journal of Southeast Asian Economies, Lee King Fuei examines the susceptibility of Singapore’s jobs to augmenting computerisation and automation in the country, finding that approximately one-quarter of Singaporean employment is at high risk of computerisation in the future. Though this is fairly low when compared to the number of high-risk jobs internationally, automation is threatening older Singaporeans and those who rely on low-level jobs to get by. It is these groups who may find themselves vulnerable to job loss.

Research suggests that around 24% of work activities in Singapore will be impacted by automation by the year 2023. But this doesn’t necessarily equate to a spate of unemployment. In fact, research conducted by MGI suggests that process automation is actually more likely to create new jobs. Jobs that never existed before. Thanks to the automation boom, it is now expected that up to 9% of Singapore’s labour demand in 2030 will be for brand new jobs.

What skills will become important for future part time jobs in Singapore?

With automation already here, and more developments on the horizon, now is the time to start future proofing the workforce with the skills and credentials for the part-time (and full-time) jobs of the future. More and more workers will need to be trained up in the skills needed to work alongside intelligent machinery. We need to be ready for a new kind of labour.

So what’s the consensus?

Demand for manual labour is set to decline, but demand for tech talent is well and truly on the rise. Employees who want to future-proof their employability for the future would be wise to start training and practicing the skills that the future demands.

But not all jobs are set to change irrevocably. Roles with empathy and emotional intelligence at their core will never lack demand. Social and emotional skills and the jobs that require them are likely to transcend the ongoing technological revolution.

For those industries in which automation is making its mark, reskilling is the buzzword of the moment. In Singapore, government initiatives like Skills Future and Adapt and Grow are helping local workers develop the skills that will keep them employable amidst changing workplace practices. Likewise, the private sector is facing increasing pressure to reskill its workers so that employees may transition into suitable roles and progress their careers

Looking ahead, employees will need the following skills to forge a place in the automated workplace. The World Economic Forum, lays out these ten essential skills for surviving the rise of automation.

Complex Problem Solving

No matter how good the AI, there are still some problems that require a human solution. Precision thinkers will be in high demand in the digitization era.

Critical Thinking

Machines still lack the subtlety and nuance of human thought. And that means companies still need intelligent humans on their teams to conceptualise and create.

Creativity

True creativity is an unexplainable phenomenon that AI simply cannot compete with. Creative jobs are going nowhere. We still need the artists of this world.

People skills

AI may be smart, but it doesn’t have the best bedside manner. People skills remain in high demand for coordination, decision-making, negotiation and care-giving roles.

Accountability

Sometimes for a system to function, somebody needs to have a role of authority (or accountability). The ability to make tough-decisions and take accountability for them is a seriously useful skill to have. Think of a surgeon or politician for example.

What are the top future-proof part time jobs in Singapore?

As well as developing your skills set to meet the workplace needs of the future, you may very well find that you already possess one or more of, what I like to call, timeless skills. These timeless skills transcend market changes and technological innovation. The effect of automation on part time jobs in Singapore will be minimal. In other words, they never go out of fashion.

Let’s take a look at some of these future-proof jobs.

Human Resources

Those who work in human resources need excellent people skills. Their day to day responsibilities are centred around interpersonal relationships, reasoning, conflict resolution and human understanding. These are skills that (as yet) cannot be programmed into even the best robots out there. So HR gets a big tick on for its future-proof credentials.

👉   Browse Human Resources Jobs on GrabJobs

Computer Analysts

There’s always going to be a demand for computer analysts. Why? Because everyone needs someone who understands the systems that we rely on so very much. In fact, the more automation takes hold, the more computer analysts will be in demand. Computer analysts are the intermediary between people and computers. In other words, highly essential.

👉   Browse Computer Analyst Jobs on GrabJobs

School Teachers

If you can think of any parents out there who want robots teaching their kids, then kudos for you. For the time being, at least, this is out of the question. Education may mobilise automated tools for administrative and remote learning opportunities, but school teachers are staying well and truly human. Training the next generation of minds is a future-proof career.

👉   Browse Teaching Jobs on GrabJobs

Professors

Likewise, university professors are indispensable. Just like schools, universities may mobilise automated tools to enhance the learning experience and provide their students with flexible learning opportunities, but professors will always be needed to impart their invaluable knowledge, experience, support, and mentorship.

👉   Browse Professor Jobs on GrabJobs

Professional Athletes

Sports are sports. Fair and square. Sure, watching robots playing football might be fun the first time round, but is it really going to take off? The whole notion of human athleticism is to marvel in human skill and competition. That’s what makes it worthwhile. The human body will always be at the centre of sporting excellence. No robots allowed.

👉   Browse Athelete Jobs on GrabJobs

Legal Professionals

A legal system cannot be upheld by robots. Legal counsel, and legal systems rely on human acumen, analysis, negotiation and humanity to function. The law is subtle, complex, and subjective. 

👉   Browse Legal Jobs on GrabJobs

Professional Writers

Whether you’re writing fiction, journalism, or scientific papers, writing is a creative art that involves shaping complex thoughts in order to transmit information to the reader. A robot may be able to collate factual information, but it won’t ever truly write. That’s why writing is a future-proof skill that requires original human thought, creativity, imagination, and talent.

👉   Browse Writing Jobs on GrabJobs

Leadership Positions

Imagine your company’s CEO. Now picture them as a robot… how do you feel? CEOs and individuals who hold leadership positions need to be human. Their job is to motivate vast teams of employees to align with and support a company objective, ethos, or mission. In order for employees to engage in a company, leaders need charisma, genuine passion, intellect and people-skills. Robots just won’t cut it.

👉   Browse Leadership Jobs on GrabJobs

Politicians

Likewise, can you imagine your local council, or nation being run by a bot? I didn’t think so. Government and politics are innately human institutions and practices. Politics involves emotion, policy, negotiation and, most importantly, humanity. Politicians need to be quick on their feet, versatile, intelligent, and must possess empathy, resilience, and integrity.

👉   Browse Politicians Jobs on GrabJobs

Religious Leaders

Religion is about faith not fact. And that means robots make rubbish priests, imams, rabbis, and monks. Robots lack the ability to instil wisdom, faith, and hope in their congregations. Religious leaders require charisma and the ability guide their followers in religious faith. Being programmed with evidence-based data and knowable facts, Robots aren’t capable of this.

👉   Browse Religious Leaders Jobs on GrabJobs

Psychiatry & Psychology

Mental health professionals need to be attuned with human emotion, human pain, suffering and the complexity of the human experience. So that’s a big demerit for robots. Nobody wants to discuss their trauma, anxiety, depression, or relationships with a robot. To grain anything from therapy, a human (whether psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist) is 100% essential.

👉   Browse Psychiatry Jobs and Psychology Jobs on GrabJobs

Medicine

AI is certainly making its mark in medicine. Artificial Intelligence is making huge strides when it comes to disease pattern prediction, accurate diagnosis, and certain surgical processes. But doctors will always be required to administer to and treat patients. Sometimes a diagnosis is not simple. And quite often it is through relationship building, empathy, and conversation that the most effective diagnoses and treatment plans are found.

👉   Browse Medical Jobs on GrabJobs

Nursing

Nurses of all specialties are essential for our communities. As well as their expert medical knowledge, nurses are often a patient’s main form of contact and emotional support when in hospital. Nurses require a great degree of empathy, compassion, and personability to interact with vulnerable and unwell patients on a day to day basis. Robots have no bedside manner.

👉   Browse Nursing Jobs on GrabJobs

Surgery

Robotics is transforming surgical practices, but robots are not replacing surgeons. Machines help surgeons administer surgeries that might otherwise be impossible. But it is still the surgeons responsibility to manage those machines and reach a successful outcome. In other words, automation is assisting, but not replacing the role of the surgeon in our hospitals.

👉   Browse Surgery Jobs on GrabJobs

Law Enforcement

Robocops are not a legitimate solution to policing our streets. A robot or AI might be able to tell you off for dropping litter on the floor but it’s not going to come up trumps when it comes to more serious crime. For that professionally trained law-enforcement is required. And when it comes to detective work, human analysis, subjectivity, and intuition are absolutely critical.

👉   Browse Law Enforcement Jobs on GrabJobs

Artists & Musicians

You can teach a robot to play the piano, but you can’t teach it to play like Zimmerman. Artists and musicians are not replaceable because art and music are not replaceable. The joy of artistry is intangible. It cannot be programmed or coded. It is uniquely human.

👉   Browse Artist Jobs and Musician Jobs on GrabJobs

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapists help to rehabilitate injured, unwell, or disabled patients with therapeutic activities based on their individual needs and circumstances. The job requires human empathy, especially as many patients will be experiencing physical and / or emotional pain when undergoing rehab.

👉   Browse Occupational Therapy Jobs on GrabJobs

Management

Managers need to be able to make decisions. Fast. But these decisions may not always be correlated to any specific data source. And that’s why robots don’t make good managers. AI can help managers streamline workflows with automated tools and real-time analytics but administering this information to form a strategy requires a more human-shaped brain.

👉   Browse Management Jobs on GrabJobs

Social Workers

Social work is an incredibly important public service. More than most jobs, social work requires a huge amount of human care, understanding and empathy. Social workers work with the most vulnerable members of our community. Robots will never compete with the human touch. And the role of a social worker is (and will remain) absolutely crucial.

👉   Browse Social Worker Jobs on GrabJobs

Emergency Services

First-line responders, EMTs, firefighters, and prevention workers respond to unexpected and often highly unpredictable events. Emergency service workers have to think on their feet and make life or death decisions quickly based on often choppy, disjointed information. AI can help behind the scenes (in emergency call centers for example) but our emergency service workers will always be needed here on the ground to help those in urgent need.

👉   Browse Emergency Services Jobs on GrabJobs

The Roundup: the future of part-time Jobs in Singapore

The future of part-time jobs in Singapore is in flux. AI is the case across the globe, automation is taking hold industry-wide, promising efficiency, process optimisation, financial savings, and increased profits. As companies and institutions transition into digital transformations of their own, automation is becoming foundational to the structures and practices of the workplace. As such, some individuals have begun to fear their future employment prospects, asking: will automation take over my job? It’s true that automation is changing the nature of employment and the skillsets that will be in demand in the near future.

That’s why its integral that government agencies and commercial institutions take steps to engage the existing workforce in new skills so that they can forge a place in a newly automated working environment. 

With that said, some jobs are future-proof already. Not every role can be adopted by a robot. These roles, particularly those in healthcare, social care, and leadership will never be overtaken. Why? Because they require human nature. Despite widespread automation, there are some things that robotics will simply never replace. Future part-time jobs in Singapore across these industries remain secure.

 

We hope this article has provided you with useful insights on how the future of part-time jobs in Singapore can be expected to change. 

If you’re on the lookout for part-time job opportunities, check out some vacancies here!

How to Land a Job at a Big Company in Singapore

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How to land a job at a big company in Singapore

Singapore boasts over 400,000 registered businesses. Only a handful of those businesses are major enterprises. Potential employees and staff are getting competitive about getting hired by them. Working at a big company in Singapore is an attractive prospect. Singapore has become a highly competitive and very popular place for international business operations as well as local companies. If you want to get involved in tech, finance, or consulting, Singapore is starting to look like the new hotspot on a global level.

Luckily, there is hope. Even if you don’t have a perfect resume or CV, you can absolutely land a big company job in Singapore. All it takes is a little know-how about job hunting in Singapore and understanding what key companies are looking for in an employee in different sectors.

Are you interested in applying for a job at a big company in Singapore? We can help you get there. In this guide, we’ll break down what the biggest Singapore businesses are, the skills you’ll need to work at a big company, and some common strategies for getting that coveted interview.

You may also like:

  1. Highest Paying Jobs in Singapore

  2. Most In-Demand Jobs in Singapore

  3. High Paying Part Time Jobs in Singapore

What are the benefits of working at a big company in Singapore?

Working for a big company in Singapore has quite a few benefits. To start, Singapore ranks strong as the second most globalized economy in the world. That means that there is virtually endless opportunity for employment. You’ll also find that salaries in Singapore of often very lucrative and the personal tax system there is very progressive. Singapore is also known for making it very easy to get a work or residence permit if you are not a native Singaporean citizen.

When it comes to big companies, in particular, there are a number of different benefits to working at Google instead of, say, a startup or SME. Working at a larger company will almost always guarantee better pay (up to 50 to 60% more than a startup), stable employment, and predictable work. At small companies, it is almost never guaranteed that a small business will thrive.

Big companies, on the other hand, have enterprise-level funding that keeps them at the top. This offers job security that you simply won’t find anywhere else. A big company will often be more demanding, but the job security and salary are well worth it. The experience you can gain at a big tech, finance, or consulting company is extremely valuable as well.

What are the top big companies in Singapore in 2021?

The current big businesses in Singapore for 2021 include the following:

  • Google
  • Facebook
  • DBS Bank (A.k.a. The Development Bank of Singapore)
  • Amazon
  • Accenture
  • Shopee
  • Apple
  • Microsoft
  • Netflix
  • UBS (A.k.A. UBS Investment Bank)
  • JP Morgan
  • PwC (A.k.A. Price Waterhouse Coopers Singapore)
  • Deloitte
  • HSBC (A.k.A. The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Singapore)
  • P&G (A.k.A. Procter & Gamble Singapore)
  • HP Inc. (A.k.A. Hewlett Packard Singapore)
  • Hubspot
  • AIA (A.k.A. American International Assurance Singapore)
  • Visa Inc.
  • Shell

What are the common skills needed to work at a big company?

Depending on the industry and individual business you want to be a part of, your unique skillset will likely vary. However, there are a handful of commonly mentioned skills you should have when applying to a big company. Those skills include:

  • Time management
  • Leadership
  • Team-building
  • Critical thinking
  • Analytical
  • Data management
  • Negotiation
  • Entrepreneurial
  • Problem-solving
  • Sales and marketing
  • Financial management
  • Commercial awareness
  • Communication (especially when it comes to managing a team)
  • Foreign language (especially English, Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil)
  • Computer programming (in some capacity)
  • Prototyping and production
  • Development skills such as UI, graphic, and web design
  • Technical skills such as Java, C++, SQL, and Agile methodologies
  • Data science skills such as project management, data analysis, and machine learning

What are the common strategies for landing a job at a big company in Singapore?

Tech, consulting, and financial institutions are three of the biggest industries that are booming (and hiring) in Singapore today.

Tech Industry

A few major tech industry leaders in Singapore include Google, Facebook, Amazon, and Shopee.

In addition to having solid coding skills, it will also help to have decent soft skills too. That means communication skills, team building skills, etc. Your ability to communicate effectively will make for an excellent first impression. If you’ve worked on a number of group projects, be sure to highlight those in your CV.

Regardless of whether or not you have a friend on the inside, you should focus primarily on your coding ability and ability to multitask. Facebook wants developers that understand coding and algorithms, but they also want someone who can multitask very complex projects efficiently. Do your homework beforehand and be as prepared as possible when it comes to the interview. It’ll help to look up and finding Facebook interview transcripts to study on beforehand.

Preferably, many recruiters will say that they look for three or more years of professional software development experience and a Bachelor’s degree at a minimum. A degree isn’t always needed, though. If you have a hefty portfolio and tons of experience, you’ll have a decent chance too.

Finance/Banking Industry

A few major finance and banking industry leaders in Singapore include DBS, HSBC, and JP Morgan. First, understand that the finance sector is a competitive industry. Take your time and study up on interview questions online. HSBC has an extensive interview process that begins with two online assessments, then a phone interview, then a “Super Day” in which prospects are brought into a group problem solving scenario. You’ll also need to prepare for psychometric tests, as well as tests about your experience in commercial banking. Typically, Wall Street businesses want to find new college graduates with excellent grades and a good GMAT score. Just as well, recruiters and management tend to look for bankers with applicable work experience. Also be sure to note your analytical skills in your CV. Honesty is key here– many interviewers know that you’re fresh out of school and have little experience when it comes to banking. You’ve got the education, but you’ll still need training regardless of how talented you are. Overall, just be sure to tell them exactly why you want to work for JP Morgan and not another financial institution and express your desire to be a valuable team member. In a guide to applying to a financial industry job in Singapore for eFinancial Careers, Simon Mortlock noted how important it is to do your research before going into an interview with a major Singaporean bank, even if you think you’ve already got them figured out. “Do more homework. The local banks are dominant and highly visible here, but how much do you know about their strategies and nuanced differences? Also consider the potential pain points the hiring manager is facing, and ways you can help address them.” – Mortlock.

Consulting Industry

A few major consulting industry leaders in Singapore include Deloitte, McKinsey, and Accenture.

It’s mostly a matter of patience and having some good contacts. This company is a huge one and receives over 500,000 applications each and every year. Only the best of the best get in, but that doesn’t meant here isn’t any hope. The firm itself will use a number of methods to find the best possible prospects, and one of those methods is to look at referrals from existing employees. It’s estimated that 30% of the company’s annual hires come from referrals. Take the time to look through your contacts and if you aren’t networking already, be sure to start now!

Networking is a very helpful skill to acquire too. “The front door application is easy and stress-free,” the guide reads, “But if you really want results, you need to get creative with finding alternate entry paths. That means reaching out to old contacts, family friends, even our older neighbours. […] We all have amazing contacts in high places. People who can get us to our goals faster. Why aren’t we using them?”

Conclusion

When it comes down to it, all it really takes to get hired at a big company in Singapore is some skill, good networking skills, and dedication. It never hurts to apply for a job at a big company, even if you feel you are overwhelmingly underqualified. The strategy you should use is basically this– Remember that most big companies are more interested in your soft skills and portfolio of work, rather than a hard list of job description skills. Showcase what makes you unique. We also recommend looking into getting a work visa or pass, such as Tech.Pass, to get a good start in Singapore.

In an interview for Fast Company, Paul McDonald, the senior executive at Robert Half, noted that statistics show that many people have a better fighting chance at making it to the interview process at a big company than they think.

When you’re ready to start your company research and sending in those CVs, try using GrabJobs. You can use our platform to your their applications to big companies efficient and effective. GrabJobs allows jobseekers to search for companies with ease and see if they are currently hiring. Finding a killer job in Singapore with a big enterprise has never been easier.

How was our guide to landing a job at a big company in Singapore? Tell us which tip helped you the most in the comments below.

20 Part Time Jobs For Public Holidays in Singapore

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20 part-time jobs for Singapore public holidays

There is a strong culture of celebrating the long weekend in Singapore. Many people will have made plans for the public holiday long in advance. Whether it’s travelling, hosting events or doing something new and exciting, long weekends in Singapore represent a time to explore life without eating too much into one’s annual leave days. Public holidays in Singapore are also a great time to take on part-time jobs too!

Part time jobs are an easy way to pull in some extra cash as businesses tend to face higher demand during the holiday season. In need of manpower, more part-time positions tend to open up as well! With that being said, not all positions require you to “go in to work either”! Prefer the comfort of your home? We’ve got something for you too!

Wondering if you should take on a part-time job during the holidays? Read on to make an informed decision! 🙂

You may also like:

  1. Highest Paying Jobs in Singapore

  2. Most In-Demand Jobs in Singapore

  3. High Paying Part Time Jobs in Singapore

What are the benefits of working public holiday part time jobs in Singapore?

The biggest benefit is that it doesn’t affect your full time job or studying. The long weekend is a great time to focus on a side hustle and make a bit of extra income with the added time off.

It also represents a busier time for many people as they don’t have to focus on work or studying. This means people could use a helping hand or an expert with a bit of extra time on their hands.

If you have skills or the equipment for any of the 20 possible part time and freelance jobs listed below, then consider using your long weekend to make a bit of money doing them.

What are the guidelines for working a part time job in Singapore?

One thing to note is that in Singapore, companies are required by law to increase employee pay if you are working on a public holiday. This means if you can’t get the long weekend off, you are still entitled to higher compensation during that time.

If you can get the time off, however, it also means you would be justified in raising your rates if you freelance or asking for fair compensation for part time jobs during the long weekend. In that time, you are entitled to an extra day’s basic wage –  200% what you would have normally been paid.

What are the Top 20 Public Holiday Part Time Jobs You Can Find in Singapore?

1. Food Delivery Driver

With most of the world going into lockdown, food delivery has never been more in-demand than it is today. Food delivery apps like GrabFood, FoodPanda, and Deliveroo have seen their demand rise over the last 12 months as more people have had to eat their favourite takeout from home rather than dining out because of social distancing protocols.

If you are in possession of a driver’s license, you could get a job through one of the various food delivery platforms as a driver. The benefit here isn’t just in the flexible hours that let you decide when to clock in. Food delivery also offers you a chance to earn tips for good customer service, adding a nice cherry on top of your part-time income.

👉   Browse Food Delivery Jobs on GrabJobs

2. Ride share driver

Ridesharing apps like Grab and Gojek might not have seen the meteoric rise like their food delivery counterparts. However, they remain an important part of how society functions in 2021. Again, this is a job that will require you to have a driver’s license. It would also be beneficial if you are sociable and have enough driving experience to ensure a smooth and reliable ride.

This isn’t just to appease customers, though. A safe, clean and reliable ride-sharing experience is what will guarantee you higher ratings on your rides. These ratings will serve as social proof for the next person requesting a ride near you. This means that every successful drive makes it easier to impress the next customer and potentially earn a tip.

Much like food delivery, the hours are very flexible for ride sharing and tipping means a second income stream in the same job.

👉   Browse Rideshare Driving Jobs on GrabJobs

3. Freelance Photographer

Freelance photography doesn’t need you to have a driver’s license, so don’t worry! There are jobs on this list for everyone! You will, however, need three things in order to become a successful freelance photographer, even if you are only doing one gig over a long weekend. These are: a good camera, a portfolio and clients.

A camera is important for obvious reasons. But, in order to attract clients, you need to have a body of photography work that you can show them. A portfolio is proof of your skills and lets clients more accurately tell if you would be the right photographer for their events.

A portfolio can also be posted online and shared, which means potential clients can see your work even when you aren’t actively looking for jobs. This is a fantastic way to book work before the long weekend arrives, so you can spend it actually doing gigs and getting paid.

👉   Browse Photography Jobs on GrabJobs

4. Freelance Copywriter

All you need is a computer and word processing software. That covers the hardware. But like any other freelance profession, the two most important things you need are the skills to do the job to a high standard and a body of work to convince clients to hire you.

Copywriting requires someone who can turn a client’s idea or thoughts into cohesive a cohesive article, pitch or ad copy. You must understand the industry your client is speaking to and have a good level off research skills to help you produce writing that is professional and captivating.

👉   Browse Copywriting Jobs on GrabJobs

5. Freelance Editor

Editors have the same requirements as copywriters, but use a completely different skillset. Where writers produce words, editors are responsible for taking a client’s words and making them shine.

This will require some knowledge in proofreading, line editing and/or developmental editing, depending on what services you want to offer to clients. Additionally, it would be beneficial to have some extra editing software like Grammarly or ProWriterAid to help you make good editorial decisions and catch any mistakes you might miss.

It’s a little harder to build a portfolio as an editor unless you can point to your clients’ published works, as you won’t own the copyright for any of it. This makes it doubly important to impress clients who can then recommend you personally to anyone they know who might need an editor.

👉   Browse Freelance Editing Jobs on GrabJobs

6. Freelance Graphic Designer

Graphic design work is much like photography in that you will need to produce striking visuals to impress your clients. Unlike photography, however, you aren’t capturing moments at events. You’re producing digital images through photo editing softwares like Photoshop. 

Graphic design is a form of art, and if you have interest in colour theory, special design, layers, tones, textures and digital architecture, then you might make a good graphic designer.

Pro-tip: Ensure that your contact information and credits are easily found for anyone interested in hiring you.

👉   Browse Freelance Graphic Designer Jobs on GrabJobs

7. Freelance Web Developer

Web development is a rather specialised freelance field. It requires technical knowledge of coding and web hosting, unless you use third party site creation platforms like WordPress, Squarespace or Wix.

The good news is, however, these skills are in high demand. If you know how to develop and maintain websites, you can charge quite a bit creating landing pages for companies, local businesses and online brands.

👉   Browse Freelance Web Developer Jobs on GrabJobs

8. Blogger

There are three ways you can make money blogging, which makes it one of the best part-time jobs to get into over a long weekend in Singapore. The first way is through ad revenue. This is generated every time someone views an ad hosted on your blog, provided you subscribe to ad sharing campaigns like Google AdSense.

The second way to make money is through direct sponsorship with a brand that wants to be associated to your blog. The third and most sustainable way is to set up a donation tab for your readers who want to contribute money to you. This can be done either through one-time payments via platforms like PayPal and CashApp or as monthly donations through Patreon.

👉   Browse Blogging Jobs on GrabJobs

9. Dance Instructor

Do you have training in popular dance techniques and a flair for teaching? Becoming a dance instructor is a great way to share your expertise and passions with people who are eager to learn for the same reasons you did.

As a dance instructor, you can host classes either in person (subject to your provincial gathering restrictions) or online, meaning you can teach multiple clients at once and earn more.

You can also create a complete video course that people can pay to access, meaning you can use your long weekend to create the course and know that people can buy it even when you go back to your full time job or studying.

👉   Browse Dance Instructor Jobs on GrabJobs

10. Yoga Instructor

Many people look to unwind over a long weekend. Some people relax at home, others travel, and many people turn to yoga. If you are a qualified yoga instructor, the long weekend can represent a fantastic time to offer a class to anyone looking to distress during their break.

Yoga classes usually run from 30 to 50 minutes, meaning you can schedule multiple classes during the long weekend. This doesn’t just mean more clients, but it allows you to spread them out throughout a day to more effectively social distance if classes are in person.

👉   Browse Yoga Instructor Jobs on GrabJobs

11. House Sitter

Many people in Singapore will use long weekends to travel. The good thing about this is many people with the means to travel over a holiday often have houses that need sitters while they’re away and the disposable income to pay for them.

House sitting is one of those rare jobs where you can literally get paid to sit on the couch. Although, you may be given other responsibilities like taking care of a pet and collecting mail. As far as part time jobs over a long weekend go, though, it’s a pretty relaxing gig.

👉   Browse House Sitting Jobs on GrabJobs

12. Dog Walker

If you’re good with animals, one of the best ways to make a bit of extra income over the upcoming long weekend is by being a dog walker. You’ll need to organise a means of transport if you want to take the dogs to a park that isn’t nearby. But otherwise, just working out a safe and fun walking route will be enough too.

Pets can get quite energetic when their owners are home longer than usual, and offering to walk their dogs can give them some extra room to relax.

👉   Browse Dog Walking Jobs on GrabJobs

13. Painter

A long weekend is often seen as a great time to renovate. Watching paint dry under the Singapore sun may not seem like the ideal way to entertain yourself, but offering to paint houses for people doing renovation work is a great part time job.

You don’t need training and your clients will usually supply most of the tools for the job, you just need to be physically up to the task and ensure you don’t leave any patches!

👉   Browse Painting Jobs on GrabJobs

14. Car Washing

With cars being such an important part of so many people’s daily commutes, one often doesn’t have time to take care of them until the weekend. Offering to wash cars over the long weekend could be a great opportunity to make some extra money.

It’s work, after all, and even people who love their cars might just want to take the long weekend off to relax. Make the most of this time by giving their prized assets some TLC.

👉   Browse Car Washing Jobs on GrabJobs

15. DJ

Do you know how to select great music and curate the right mood for an event? Consider being a DJ and giving people the gift of your master playlists.

A lot of people will see the long weekend as a chance to host events they otherwise couldn’t over two-day weekends. From weddings to backyard parties, they could all do with a DJ to set the tone and keep things ticking over.

👉   Browse DJ Jobs on GrabJobs

16. Master of Ceremonies

If you have a gift for engaging with crowds as well as strong time management and organisational skills, then you might be well suited to being an MC, or Master of Ceremonies. You’d be in charge of stitching the different parts of a program together at events, as well as keeping people entertained and enthusiastic.

This is definitely the job for someone with flair, confidence and great collaboration skills, as people will look to you to keep the event ticking over. Don’t forget – it’s also a chance to show off your skills to anyone in attendance who might want to hire you for a future event.

👉   Browse Emcee Jobs on GrabJobs

17. Caterer

If you know how to cook great food for a lot of people, your culinary skills could make you a great events caterer. No event is truly complete without finger foods or even a three course meal. Use your time over the long weekend to cater for a big event! It could earn you some money and a strong reputation in the process.

👉   Browse Catering Jobs on GrabJobs

18. Entertainment

Being an entertainer at events is a great alternative if you have the performance skills to be considered an expert but not the clientele to teach. Whether you’re a singer, dancer, poet or actor, providing entertainment at events could be a handy way to make some extra money over the long weekend with some part time work built around your passion.

You’ll also get to network with any other acts that may be present, the organisers, and anyone who sees you and thinks they might want to hire you too. Because it’s something you love and are good at, it also doesn’t require as much preparation time as some of the other event jobs available.

You can recycle a routine or performance, provided it’s appropriate for the event and up to standard. Long weekends are a good time off, but time is still limited and, this way, you can make the most of it.

👉   Browse Entertainment Jobs on GrabJobs

19. Handyperson

Now this is a job that’s going to require skills, equipment and expertise. If you’re handy with a power tool and know how to fix household issues like blocked pipes, faulty appliances and bad wiring, being a handyman could be a great part time job opportunity.

For one thing, many people only notice household problems when they’re home for an extended period of time. Lockdown means more people are spending time in their homes and finding things that need to be repaired.

Being on call over the long weekend and making sure people know they can call you for plumbing, carpentry, electric and general household work will help generate business during your time off.

👉   Browse Handyperson Jobs on GrabJobs

20. Bartender

You don’t need to know how to mix fancy cocktails in order to be a good bartender. If you’re quick on your feet, organised and friendly, you can serve most drinks with just a little training. Many bars and pubs are always looking for staff to fill in part time. Check with your local establishments if they need some extra help over the long weekend.

You can volunteer for training before the long weekend or learn through tutorials at home. Either way, if you know how to serve drinks, then consider bartending. Patrons are also known to be generous tippers, so be sure to keep a smile and the drinks flowing!

👉   Browse Bartending Jobs on GrabJobs

Conclusion

Don’t be caught sleeping this upcoming long weekend. With numerous public holidays coming in, it’s a great time to get out there (or stay home) and make some extra money through some of the part time jobs available now.

Hiring Trends in Singapore & Job Search Tips in [year]

by
Hiring trends in Singapore & Job search tips for 2022

The job market in Singapore is getting ready to flourish in [year]. While not every sector is looking up, there is a rising return to normalcy as the world adjusts to the changes thrust upon it. With that being said, it’s the perfect time to look at some job search tips for [year] and study the hiring trends in Singapore!

While there will still be struggles, there are also opportunities in the new job market. There are companies frantically hiring even as they struggle to stay afloat. We did the research to bring you the top hiring trends in Singapore and some useful job search tips to help job seekers find employment in [year]. You will see some general trends that apply across all industries. 

Whether you are looking for a full-time or part-time employment opportunity, the companies that are hiring right now may not be looking for the same things. As such, this article may be better able to equip you with some of the essential info you need to succeed in your job hunt process 🙂

You may also like:

  1. Highest Paying Jobs in Singapore

  2. Most In-Demand Jobs in Singapore

  3. High Paying Part Time Jobs in Singapore

Singapore Opens Up

Singapore is one of the companies that has been the quickest to recover. On December 28, 2020, the country went into phase three of reopening. This helped expand what is allowed as far as public gatherings and human interaction. Thus, increasing options for job seekers in the coming year.

The switch to phase three came about because the country was able to strictly adhere to safe management measures. The country increased its capacity to test and track citizens, moving up to 50,000 per day. By adopting TraceTogether, authorities are able to more closely track individual infections and identify possible spreaders. With 70% of the population using this service, the effectiveness of the service has been greatly increased.

This reopening has made it possible to have gatherings with up to 8 persons at a time. Venues are able to increase their operating capacities. Indoor events and church services are now able to have up to 250 people attend their events. Migrant workers are seeing restrictions relax, and they are accessing recreational activities thanks to better safety measures.

With all these changes taking place, what do the hiring trends in Singapore have to add to the list of job search tips in [year]? 

Let’s find out 🙂

What are the top hiring trends in Singapore in [year]?

While there will be a growing trend this year to move back towards to what we would consider normal, not everything will adjust as quickly and at once. There have also been adjustments that companies made that have turned out so well, firms plan to keep them going forward.

While many complain about the drastic changes the last year has seen, most of them weren’t changes that wouldn’t have happened in the long run regardless. The direction industries were headed towards hasn’t shifted, but has accelerated. Going digital has been a trend for years now, the pandemic simply forced their hand. The result of this is that more of our world will stay online for the long haul.

As such, amongst the list of job search tips in [year], we would recommend each individual to equip themselves with relevant technological knowledge. With digital advancements being made, employers and hiring managers would want to hire those who can help ease the process of business for them. 

In order to achieve that, one may wish to attend courses and workshops that can boost one’s knowledge and specific skills related to the matter. 

Expect automation & virtual interviews

What’s one of the other hiring trends in Singapore? The recruitment process will continue to be more hands-off for the first few rounds of applying for the job. Automation is helping firms to sift through larger numbers of applicants and find the best applicants to bring in for interviewing. Some of the tools that have become common are applicant tracking systems, and chatbots to answer questions and streamline the process. This is technology that we have tapped into here at GrabJobs as well!

This mindset is also becoming more common in the interview process as well. Companies are using pre-recorded interviews to screen candidates. AI may even be responsible for reviewing these applications soon. These bots focus on finding relevant keywords to help find the best candidates for the job. This means that optimising your resume and cover letter for the specific application will become increasingly important.

You can take advantage of this by tailoring your application to help yourself stand out. You can prep for general questions and have great answers ready for questions from the company. Talk about yourself, why you want the position, and why you are a good fit. 

Once you get past the first round, virtual interviews will still continue to be a part of the process. Even as the pandemic lessens its hold on us, the convenience of this process will still make it useful for recruiters. All of these are great and useful job search tips in [year].

Despite the ease with which we can interview people online, it is still not enjoyed by either party. Automated and virtual processes will likely be what get you to this point, but it will be that in-person touch that will decide whether you will get the job or not. That’s one popular hiring trend in Singapore.

Work will remain remote

Managers have had to admit that many employees are just as effective at their jobs remotely as they are working in the office. Many employers are having a hard time justifying the rent of large office spaces. As such, remote working is yet another one of the popular hiring trends in Singapore. 

This doesn’t mean that there won’t be any office time for employees, but that employers are becoming more flexible in how they address work. The roles that require working on-site will return to their workplace. Full-time remote positions will also become available and flexible schedules will become more standardised.

This flexibility allows you to broaden your job search. Without having to emphasise the commute as much, you will be able to more diverse positions. Applying for jobs all across Singapore will be a more appealing option as well. It follows that demonstrating that you are someone who has the organization and communication skills necessary to work from home is also important.

Weigh your factors when job hunting! Tap on the above-mentioned job search tips for [year] and hiring trends in Singapore to make a decision that best suits your needs.

Higher Competition

Unemployment is still a problem, and there are only so many employees who can work remotely. Because of this, there are more people looking for the same jobs. More than ever before, higher competition for jobs is yet another one of the popular hiring trends in Singapore. 

When applying for a job, be sure to secure all of your easy wins. Have your resume polished, your cover letter written and optimised for the position. Update any relevant online profiles like LinkedIn and your portfolio. In a competitive market, even small changes will be crucial in making the difference for getting hired.

Even though it may be tempting, don’t spam apply to every job you see. Only apply to those that are relevant to you. Take the time to fill that application out thoughtfully. Spend some time thinking up ways to stand out. Write an article, get your own personal website, or do a few pro-bono gigs to beef up your resume.

If you aren’t getting any traction, use this as a time to upgrade your skillset. Find some relevant skills in your industry that will make you more valuable to employers. Make sure that you are keeping up with the skills you have too so that you will be just as sharp when you start work as when you left.

Those are some of the top recommended job search tips for [year] and hiring trends in Singapore.

Regular monitoring

Companies have traditionally had large hiring increases at the beginning of the year and in the fall, while summer and winter were slower. Companies in stronger sectors may still be following this hiring trend in Singapore as they continue to expand, but those that are struggling won’t be.

In Singapore, 20% of companies plan to hire employees in the first quarter of [year]. Singapore is seeing one of the brightest outlooks for recovery. However, the return to pre-COVID levels of employment isn’t expected to happen for some time. The majority of experts are unsure when or even if this will happen.

Things should go back to normal soon as vaccines have been administered to 85% of the population. A figure necessary to gain herd immunity. Once restrictions are completely lifted, recovery for industries like hospitality and restaurants will be in full swing.

Your best bet is to keep a keen eye on the companies you are interested in applying to work for. Keeping track of who is hiring will give you a better idea of what is happening and allow you to adjust your efforts. In the short term, this may include opening up the range of jobs that you are open to, branching out to new industries, or considering more freelance opportunities to tide you over.

As such, regular monitoring and keeping an open mind are some of the best job search tips in [year] too. 

What are the top industries hiring for Full-Time Positions in Singapore this year?

While the last year was devastating for industries like hospitality and foodservice, others have flourished. There are several industries that are hiring folks as fast as they can and will continue to do so throughout the year.

To help the country recover, the government had committed to creating 100,000 jobs in 2021. The SGUnited Jobs and Skills Package plans to help offset the pandemic and help every citizen who wants a job get one. These jobs that are being created are skewed towards, healthcare, early childhood education, IT, finance, and transport. They are planning to add 15,000 jobs in healthcare and education and helping to jumpstart 25,000 traineeships in different industries.

Healthcare

This is to be expected. The pandemic has meant an immediate demand for healthcare professionals and a deeper appreciation for these services. Our society is becoming more conscious of their health and reliant on technology. Health tech companies are popping up that are helping to provide virtual services and frontline care. As the economy recovers, you will see more preventative care jobs open back up. This demand is also heavily supported by the government incentives that will be in place this year.

👉   Browse Healthcare Jobs on GrabJobs

Banking & Finance

Ironically, banks and the companies that service them are having great success. This has pushed financial institutions towards online banking hard. Jobs that service this online banking will continue to pop up for the foreseeable future. The average monthly banking salary is 9,190 Singapore dollars.

👉   Browse Banking Jobs on GrabJobs

Education

With 15,000 jobs being added to help hire educators. These educators will also have a chance to have steady careers helping the future of Singapore improve. Teachers on average earn an equivalent salary of $42,000 USD.

👉   Browse Teaching Jobs on GrabJobs

Computing & IT

Tech companies have always been at the forefront of digital adoption, and many of them soared in value during this crisis. They never relied on physical storefronts, and have the easiest time allowing employees to work from home. The average monthly salary for IT jobs is 8,480 Singapore dollars.

👉   Browse IT Jobs on GrabJobs

Insurance

Insurance is a steady reliable sector that has seen remarkable growth in the last year. These companies are able to leverage the past year’s events to demonstrate the need for their services. Homes and families are finding it increasingly important to prepare for the worst.

👉   Browse Insurance Jobs on GrabJobs

What are the top industries hiring for Part-Time and Contract Positions in Singapore this year?

Temp work offers the chance to see a variety of industries and acquire valuable skills to improve your career. It’s a valuable short term remedy to your employment woes, and it helps bolster your resume when you approach employers. It can show that you are willing to get your hands dirty, or are enthusiastic about being part of the industry in any capacity.

When you are looking for these temporary opportunities, it’s important to be aware of what you are looking for. You need to know if your goal is just to have the position while looking for more stable work, or if you want the chance to regularly change the scenery.

Whatever you decide is best for you, clearly communicate this to your employer. Finding the right fit will include finding aligning interests with the length of the employment. A hiring manager who is looking to fill a temp to hire position will be looking for a different candidate than those who are only planning on having the employee for a few months. By being upfront about what you want, you will be seen as a better candidate when that type of opportunity comes up.

Construction

This industry has the strongest job outlook, with a 26% increase according to a ManpowerGroup survey. It is quick to hire workers for big projects that can last months or years and keep them on until the job is completed. Helping add to infrastructure is also critical according to the government. Many of the skilled trades involved in construction will also be the beneficiaries of many of the 25,000 traineeships.

👉   Browse Construction Jobs on GrabJobs

Services

The services sector is expected to increase its hiring by 18% this year. The discipline involves a wide array of professionals. Many of the office duties apply to remote workers who will be able to get started from home.

👉   Browse Services Jobs on GrabJobs

Transportation & Utilities

This industry is set to increase hiring by 17%. These companies will be hiring for busy seasons, swing shifts and to meet occasional demand.

👉   Browse Transportation Jobs and Utilities Jobs on GrabJobs

Public Admin

With a bump in employment of 14%, this industry is looking up. The administrative tasks asked of employees are easy to train for, have many different sectors that they serve, and have the possibility to turn into full-time employment for the right candidate.

👉   Browse Public Admin Jobs on GrabJobs

Manufacturing & Production

Factories and assembly lines will continue to expand their reach and will be looking for temporary help during busy seasons to help ramp up production.

👉   Browse Construction Jobs on GrabJobs

Conclusion

The job market in Singapore is doing as well as it can be for [year]. It may not be fully recovered, but as cities start to get the pandemic under control, they are able to start getting back to normal. Job seekers this year are likely to see increases in automation used by employers when hiring. Virtual interviews will continue, but the final decision will be made in person. Remote work is here to stay as companies adjust their expectations.

All of these circumstances mean more competition and increased importance placed on making yourself stand out. While one in five companies in Singapore plans to hire during the first quarter of [year], there are still many steps to go and this year will likely see a different hiring cadence than in years past.

And there you have it – an article on job search tips and hiring trends in Singapore. We hope this article has provided you with a wealth of information on how to land a job in Singapore next year! 

If you’re keen to look for other positions, visit GrabJobs to find a job opportunity in Singapore easily!

GrabJobs is a recruitment platform and job site headquartered in Singapore. On our site, you’ll find a wide variety of job listings. Read up here for career resources to help you along!

How to Find a Job in Singapore

by
How to find a job in Singapore

Because it’s such a great place to live and work, Singapore’s job market is highly competitive for locals and foreigners alike. Sizeable retrenchments have made it increasingly difficult to find a job in Singapore. The Coronavirus pandemic has fundamentally reshaped many Singaporean businesses and posts. 

Regardless of recent events, there are still plenty of jobs for foreigners in Singapore. Most of these positions will require a specific skillset, though. You’ll usually need a technical background in high demand or sought-after experience.

Singaporeans  are already well-educated and highly skilled, so the job market is quite competitive. You’ve got to stand out from the local talent for a Singaporean company to hire you and jump through the hoops to obtain a work visa for you.

This year, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) imposed new regulations on visa requirements and quotas for foreign employees. The new regulations give citizens even more preference to make sure they get the first crack at jobs in a sputtering economy.

It’s not all gloom and doom, though. If you know the right people and use the right approach, it’s possible for foreigners to land jobs in Singapore. Read on to learn what you need to know about landing a job in Singapore as a foreigner.

You may also like:

  1. Highest Paying Jobs in Singapore

  2. Most In-Demand Jobs in Singapore

  3. High Paying Part Time Jobs in Singapore

Is it Easy to Find Work in Singapore?

Thanks in large part to its workforce, Singapore has a robust economy. Before the pandemic, the MOM reported significant job growth as employment rebounded from lower levels in 2014. In 2019, Singapore added more than 63,000 jobs and enjoyed record levels of employment.

Of course, the pandemic slowed things down worldwide, and Singapore was no exception. Most job losses in 2020 occurred in the non-professional, trade-based industries, like wholesaling, manufacturing, and financial services.

Due to Singapore’s position in international trade, these sectors are likely to rebound quickly. Still, the future for these positions is less certain. Consequently, it will be challenging for foreigners to enter those industries.

If you’re a foreigner with more in-demand skillsets, you have a rosier employment picture. Tech positions like AI specialists, data scientists, software engineers, or cybersecurity specialists are in high demand. As the population of Singapore ages, there will also be a growing need for healthcare professionals.

Moving forward, tech and healthcare positions offer tremendous long-term job security. If you’re a highly qualified foreigner planning to get a job in one of these sectors, you’ll stand the best chance of finding employment in Singapore.

Foreign Work Visas

One of the main constraints for hiring foreign workers is a foreign work visa. These permits are issued by the MOM after a job offer is given. They cost companies lots of time, money, and effort to secure. To legally work in Singapore, you must have either an Employment Pass (EP), EntrePass, or an S Pass. 

This year, MOM made it more challenging for firms to apply for work visas by raising the income requirements. This was done to promote hiring Singaporeans for positions that need to be filled rather than importing new talent as the economy recovers from the pandemic.

Once you’re hired for a new position as a foreigner, your employer will sponsor and apply for a work visa before you can come to work in Singapore. During the first half of 2020, MOM raised the minimum qualifying salary for both the Employment Pass. This applies to eligible foreign professionals, managers, executives. 

New Employment Pass (EP) Requirements

As of 1 September, 2020, the rules for a new Employment Pass got stricter. Young applicants must be offered a monthly salary above $4,500. Older applicants, generally in their 40s and above, will need to earn $9,000 a month. Foreigners who currently have an EP will be subject to these new requirements if they’re set to renew their permit after 1 May, 2021.

To work in the financial services sector, a young applicant must earn at least $5,000 per month.  While experienced people must make more than $10,000 every month. Of course, applicants will also need to present qualifications from accredited institutions.

There’s one last stipulation to encourage Singaporean firms to hire Singaporeans. Before employers can apply for an EP on a foreign employee’s behalf, they’re required to advertise the position on MyCareersFuture for at least 28 days and fairly consider all applicants. The only exceptions to this policy are if the income will be more than $20,000 per month or if publicly listing the job might pose a security threat.

New S Pass Requirements

S Pass applicants will also see some changes from the MOM. From 1 January 2021, companies will only be permitted to employ foreigners as 10% of their workforce. This is down from the current rate of 13%. For the construction, marine shipyard, and process fields, the number of foreigners in a company’s workforce must not exceed 18%. At the beginning of 2023, companies are only allowed to hire 15% of their workforce from outside of Singapore.

The S Pass is also subject to new minimum income requirements. Young applicants need to earn $100 more than before, with a minimum of $2,500. The salary of experienced applicants will also be revised accordingly.

What about EntrePass Visas?

EntrePass visas aren’t facilitated by companies who want you as an employee. Rather, they’re granted to entrepreneurs for one year, and they can be renewed for two years at a time. To secure your EntrePass, you’ll have to start or intend to create a private limited company in Singapore as an entrepreneur, innovator, or investor. EntrePass applicants don’t need to be hired or sponsored by a company in Singapore.

What is the best way to get a job in Singapore as a foreigner?

Since the job market is so competitive, it can take a little bit of creativity to distinguish yourself as a foreigner entering the local job market. It isn’t enough to just be good enough at what you do. These new regulations that tighten the rules governing foreign workers mean that you have to be better at what you do than qualified Singaporeans. And the MOM has to agree you’re exceptional when it reviews your application.

There are a few popular strategies that you can employ to land a job in Singapore as a foreigner. Many try several at the same time to increase their chances of landing a coveted spot in Singapore. These are some of the best ways how to find a job in Singapore as a foreigner.

1. Networking

Networking is key to getting hired for foreigner work in Singapore. It’s important who you know and who knows about you. If you’re looking for work in Singapore, it’s best to spend some time in the country making connections with influential people. During those visits, connect with people, including those native to Singapore and from abroad. LinkedIn can be a great resource to keep in touch with the people you meet and nurture your business relationships.

Tapping into this network becomes very important if you’re not specialized or if you’re skilled in an industry that’s in high demand. It can also be helpful if you’re looking to secure a specific position.

2. Internal Company Transfers

One of the best ways to get a job in Singapore as an established professional is to consider an internal company transfer. If you get internal approval to work for your company in Singapore, this makes it easier to move forward with the whole process. Start out at a company headquartered in Singapore. Proving your value abroad will make the entire transfer process go smoothly.

Where should I look for open positions in Singapore?

Here are some great online job portals and resources to help you look for a job in Singapore as a foreigner. The list includes Asia and Singapore-specific sites as well as broad recruitment resources.

Portal

Best For

Link

GrabJobs

Premier Singapore-based job portal

GrabJobs.co

Jobs DB

Comprehensive Asian job search space

jobsDB.com

MyCareersFuture

Extensive list of open positions in Singapore

MyCareersFuture.gov.sg

Michael Page

International recruitment site for high-end job seekers

MichaelPage.com

LinkedIn

Expansive professional social network to build contacts and reach in-house recruiters

LinkedIn.com

How do you get a Job in Singapore as a Foreigner?

To understand what you’ll face as you look for a job in Singapore, take a look at this post. Before you begin looking for jobs in Singapore, check with the MOM to see if you’ll be eligible for a work visa. If you pass that initial assessment, then you can begin looking for a job in Singapore. It’s best to choose a thriving industry with lots of demand for highly skilled workers, like the tech and finance fields.

Networking can be beneficial as you look for work in Singapore. Otherwise, consider in-house recruitment or employment agencies with connections in Singapore. Once you have a competitive offer from a business in Singapore, you’ll need to apply for your work visa. When that is approved, you can begin the relocation process and get to work!

Can I Apply for a Work Visa in Singapore before I Find a Job?

No, you must apply for a work visa after you’re offered a job by a company in Singapore. Check MOM’s eligibility criteria to get a good idea of what they’re looking for to see if you’ll be approved for a work visa before you start job hunting. Ideally, you’ll be well qualified by accredited institutions with extensive work experience or with a sorely-needed specialization in a cutting-edge field.

If you’re planning to work for a Singapore company, you’ll need to apply for either an EP or an S Pass. Once you’ve been hired by a company, make sure that your income will exceed the recently increased salary minimums and that you bring an impressive CV for the MOM to review.

After you receive your job offer, the company that you’ll work for will seek the appropriate work visa on your behalf. When you’re approved, you can head to Singapore to start working. Anticipate renewing your visa every few years to stay in compliance with the MOM.

How long does it take to find a Job in Singapore?

That depends on how well suited you are for current job openings in Singapore. If you’re entering a field with high demand and a specialized skill set that companies in Singapore are looking for, the hiring process will go quickly. The significant impediments that may take time are work visa approval from the MOM and the time it takes to move to Singapore. Internal company transfers may take less time.

If you lack substantial work experience or a specialized skill set, your job search might take a while, and there’s a risk that the MOM might not grant you a work visa. Without these distinctions, it’ll be hard to set yourself apart from suitable local hires.

Job portals, like the ones listed above, are repeatedly refreshed with current postings. As HR departments streamline the interview process, you can expect that the hiring process can go quickly if a company cannot find a qualified citizen to do the job that you’ll be doing.

Conclusion

Singapore has a competitive job market that entices people from around the world. Citizens are highly-qualified, skilled, and hardworking, so it can be hard to break into this market as a foreigner unless you’re in a rapidly developing field like technology. 

The work visa process in Singapore can be complicated, expensive, and time-consuming. Even if you are perfectly suited for a job in Singapore, and the company hires you, the MOM has several hurdles for you to overcome before moving to Singapore and working. New quotas and limits on work visas mean that companies can’t hire as many foreigners as before.

Keep an eye on local job portals, like GrabJobs, to see what’s available. Though it may take a lot of time and effort to secure a job offer in Singapore, it’ll be worth it in the long-term. 

Ultimately, your success in securing a job for foreigners in Singapore depends on your skills, specialization, and credentials. To get a job in Singapore as a foreigner, all of those factor into how marketable you are as a candidate for a position.

We wish you the best of luck as you begin the challenging task of finding a job in Singapore as a foreigner!

And there you have it – an article on how to find a job in Singapore. We hope this article has provided you with a wealth of information on how to land a job in Singapore! 

If you’re keen to look for other positions, visit GrabJobs to find a job opportunity in Singapore easily!

GrabJobs is a recruitment platform and job site headquartered in Singapore. On our site, you’ll find a wide variety of job listings. Read up here for career resources to help you along!

How To Land A Government Job in Singapore

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How to land a government job in Singapore?

There are about 146,000 government positions in Singapore. The positions run from soldiers to economic advisers and everything in between! Interested in these positions? Read on to find out how to land a government job in Singapore! 

When private firms in Singapore have reached record retrenchment levels, people are weighing their employment prospects and options. “The iron rice bowl,” as the Civil Service is often called, looks like an increasingly attractive option.

The Civil Service comprises about 85,000 of those government jobs in Singapore. Its employees are responsible for the country’s day-to-day operations. The government of Singapore offers competitive wages/bonuses to attract and reward the best talent.

In addition to the competitive salary, there’s tremendous job security as a civil servant. Once you’ve secured one of these enviable positions, you also gain the coveted ability to rise within the ranks.

You may also like:

  1. Highest Paying Jobs in Singapore

  2. Most In-Demand Jobs in Singapore

  3. High Paying Part Time Jobs in Singapore

Some drawbacks

The main drawback to government careers is that—well, it’s the government. Those who are creative and enjoy understanding the logic behind their work may feel stifled in such roles. The system is designed to function well and for the greater good. If you can live with those trade-offs, you may want to consider joining the Civil Service.

In the face of the pandemic, the Civil Service has managed to continue to maintain relatively undisturbed operations. Although no mid-year bonuses were offered and most positions suffered system-wide pay cuts to weather the storm, job security remains. 

In response to the pandemic, MOM has announced some changes to promote Singaporeans within the Civil Service. These changes make it more difficult for foreigners to secure these jobs.

Here’s what you need to know about the ranks of a civil service position.

>> Government Jobs in Singapore

Civil servants are usually the people who work in government ministries and state organisations. These are some of the organisations under the Singapore government: 

People employed by the statutory boards, like the PUB, IRA, or the AVA, are considered “public servants” instead. Those in uniform are also considered “public servants.”

singapore skyline

Which Government Job Has The Highest Salary?

The highest-paid government position is held by the Prime Minister. The PM takes home a considerable and controversial sum of $2.2 million each year before bonuses. Below that position, are several other high-ranking officials. They earn wages according to a tiered system of salaries and bonuses.

How Much Do Civil Servants Make?

According to the official pay scale, civil servants are paid the equivalent of 60% of the top earners’ average income in Singapore. 

Beyond the initial salary, there are a number of performance-driven bonuses. These are awarded at mid-year or year-end to the service as a whole and to individuals. In addition to the standard yearly salary, civil servants can earn some or all of these bonuses:

  • Non-Pensionable Annual Allowance (NPAA): commonly known as the 13th-month bonus or Annual Wage Supplement
  • Annual Variable Component (AVC): awarded to all civil servants based on Singapore’s economic performance. The AVC is equivalent to 0-1.5 months of pay and typically comes out to about 1 month. If Singapore achieves exceptional economic performance, a one-off Special Variable payment can be granted.
  • Performance Bonus (PB): Ranges from 0-6 months of pay, with an average of 3 months. Based on individual performance and determined by the Prime Minister.
  • National Bonus: Ranges from 0-6 months. 3 months are awarded if four socio-economic indicators (economic growth, unemployment, etc.) are met. 6 months if they are far exceeded.

For instance...

A Minister can earn up to 20 months of salary each year. If all bonuses are fully achieved, providing a healthy incentive for going above and beyond. Unofficially, fresh graduates can earn a monthly $3,000 salary when they obtain entry-level government jobs in Singapore.

Mangers on the MX12 pay grade report that they earn between $3,000-$5,900 monthly. Middle Management (MX11) brings home between $4,740 to just over $8,000. Senior Management as MX10 earn $7,000-$11,470 per month. As the top earners, Directors (MX9) collect $11,000-$17,000 a month.

Every few years, legislation increases the base salaries to keep pace with private-sector employment. In addition, consistently good performance will set you up for future promotion and added responsibilities.

How Much Can You Expect To Earn Working for the SAF?

Working for the Singapore Army is a worthwhile consideration if you’re interested in public service. There are four main promotion tracks within the Army. Their respective salaries and bonuses are listed below:

  • The Officers Scheme:
    • This scheme starts at the Officer Cadet trainee level. Those in the service take home $1,990 per month, and those with a combat vocation earn $2,420. Promotion to 2nd Lieutenant (2LT) will net you a $200-$400 pay increase. The move to Lieutenant (LTA) can effectively double your monthly salary. Once you reach this rank, you’ll make as much as the median Singapore worker does each month.
    • Captains (CPT) earn $4,000-$6,000. Major’s can earn up to 50% more. Lieutenant Colonels (LTC) earn 50% more than Majors do. Senior Lieutenant Colonels (SLTC) earn $12,000 or more. Colonels (COL) receive at least $15,000 per month, and Generals make at least $20,000 per month.
    • This track provides a $5,000-$20,000 sign-on bonus.
  • Military Experts:
    • Intelligence experts, medics, and engineers can earn $1,590-$2,580 to start. Experts with university training in the same fields earn more than twice as much, between $3,670 and $5,300 per month.
    • There is no accompanying sign-on bonus, but expect generous bonuses pegged to age throughout your career.

Can Foreigners Apply To Work For the Government Of Singapore?

Since the government’s goal is to attract the brightest minds, there are opportunities for foreigners, mainly PRs, to work in government positions. The main exclusions are areas concerning national security; reserved for citizens only. Preference is usually given to citizens unless the foreigner holds exceptional credentials or no viable Singaporean candidates apply.

In light of Covid-19, MOM implemented new rules that make it more challenging to obtain an Employment Pass (EP). The new rules, effective May 2020, raised the salary threshold for an EP from $3,600 to $3,900. The increase is to deter firms, private and otherwise, from seeking outside talent. Thus, ensuring that citizens and optimal employment levels are realised. These figures will increase in the future in an effort to continue to provide jobs for eligible Singapore citizens.

Quotas for S Pass permits that allow foreigners to work have also been reduced. With retrenchments and reduced working hours, hiring locals and PRs stand more attractive. 

Which Degree Is Best For Government Jobs?

This depends mainly on which ministry you’d like to join. Here’s what you might consider studying based on current openings.

  • Cyber Security Consultant: There is always a demand for tech-savvy individuals in the Singapore government. A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field is required for you to apply to this position. Additional security certificates can help to set you apart from other candidates.
  • Forensic Technical Officer: To regulate the approval of all therapeutic products in Singapore, you’ll need a Diploma in Biomedical Science or an equivalent degree. There are also Health Promotion activities that will suit you if you have a scientific inclination.
  • Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore: Procurement officers need to have a relevant Diploma/Degree, preferably in Business Studies. A degree in Management or Finance, would also serve you well to find entry-level government jobs in Singapore.

There are plenty of opportunities for you to build a government career in Singapore. Review the currently available listings’ requirements to help you prepare. These highly competitive contracts open and close routinely. It does so as new roles are designed, and people are promoted or retire.

Which Degree Is Best for Government Jobs?

There are several gateways to government job portals to begin your search for a government career in Singapore:

  • Mycareersfuture.gov.sg is an excellent government job portal. Singaporeans and PRs can look for relevant government jobs in Singapore based on your unique interests and competencies. Under new rules, all job positions (corporate and government) with a monthly salary of up to $20,000 must be advertised here.
  • Other government job portals can be found on the main Singapore Government site, gov.sg. This is a quick way to search for entry-level government jobs in Singapore or mid-career options, organised by sector.
  • If you know which ministry you’d like to work for, you can start on that site. The Ministry of Manpower, for example, has a government job portal that lists all positions available within that particular Ministry.
  • Careers.gov.sg is also a comprehensive government job portal. Simply select the branch that you’d like to look at openings, and you’ll be taken to the official job posting.

Is it Better to Work for the Private or Public Sector?

This answer is subjective, and it depends entirely on what you’d like to get out of your career. While a public service career isn’t right for everyone, some perks make these positions quite enviable. There are also limitations to working for the government that you won’t find in corporate posts, so choose wisely.

Working for the government means seeing that the fundamental needs of the population are met. Education, environmental protection, military defence, and transportation fall under this umbrella. By working for the government, you will have the capacity to make a difference in your post.

 

A Study Of The Pros & Cons

PROS

CONS

STABILITY: They don’t call the civil service the “iron rice bowl” for nothing. As long as you continue to excel in your role, you can expect high job security. The government needs to function regardless of economic conditions. Thus, making civil servants will always be necessary.

BUREAUCRACY: The stability and consistency that the government provides is also its downfall. Orders come in from high, and they must be followed. There’s plenty of red tape. A lack of communication between levels that can be frustrating too.

CONSISTENCY: Expect to be treated well as an employee. As the people who set the labour laws, the government is predictable and fair. In addition to very competitive wages, you’ll know what to expect going into work each day.

PAPER QUALIFICATIONS: Previously, the competitive job openings relied heavily on paper qualifications rather than the quality of your work. Know that you’ll still be required to submit relevant educational results when you apply. Though, there is now a greater official emphasis on meritocracy.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: Singapore’s civil service has numerous and easily accessible opportunities for continuous professional development. There is an emphasis on workforce development and lifelong learning. Whether you elect to pursue further training or degree courses, the additional education will be yours for the taking.

SERVICE: You’ll sleep well knowing that the services you provide are a vital part of keeping Singapore on the path of growth and excellence. As long as you find a role well suited to your skills and abilities, working for the civil service can be quite fulfilling. 

Conclusion

Working for the Singapore government is a badge of honour worn by nearly 146,000 people. This includes 85,000 who work for the various ministries as civil servants. From the PM to entry-level civil servants in Singapore, each employee shoulders a part of the responsibility of the country’s proper functioning. 

The government offers job security and stability that is difficult to find in the private sector. Thus, employment with the government can indeed be a rewarding experience. 

Civil and public servants are well compensated for their efforts in helping to maintain the country. In addition to all of the perks, you’ll have the satisfaction of helping your fellow countrymen.

And there you have it – a deep dive into all about government jobs in Singapore. We hope this article has provided you with a wealth of information on how to land a government job in Singapore! 

If you’re keen to look for other positions, visit GrabJobs to find a job opportunity in Singapore easily!

GrabJobs is a recruitment platform and job site headquartered in Singapore. On our site, you’ll find a wide variety of job listings. Read up here for career resources to help you along!

Top 5 Highest Paying Freelance Jobs in Singapore

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Highest Paying Freelance Jobs in Singapore

Ah, the life of those who work freelance jobs in Singapore! You get to sleep in if you’re a night owl or schedule your work around children’s activities. For those of you who thrive on variety, the freelance lifestyle offers plenty of that too. If you’re trying to figure out if a freelance job is for you, keep reading! In this article, you’ll find a list of the 5 highest paying freelance jobs in Singapore. 

To begin with, what exactly is a freelance worker, otherwise known as a freelancer? According to Merriam-Webster, the term initially referred to a soldier who hired himself out to the highest bidder. Over time, a freelancer came to mean anyone who pursues a career without making a long-term commitment to one employer. You can think of freelancers as being corporate mercenaries.

Definitions vary, so let’s look at what the Singaporean government says. The Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) states that freelance work falls under the self-employment umbrella. Freelance workers get paid for the services they provide. Other types of self-employment include owning an online business and commissioned agents (e.g., real estate and insurance agents). According to the Ministry of Manpower, freelancers are “own-account workers, who operate their own business or trade without employing any paid worker.”

In 2019, more than 211,000 resident workers in Singapore worked as freelancers, according to the Ministry of Manpower’s report. That accounts for roughly 8.8% of the resident workforces, comprised of both Singaporean and permanent residents. Most of these people treated freelancing as a side hustle.

Many people successfully combine freelancing with a full-time day job. However, in this article, we’ll concentrate on freelance jobs that can provide most or all of your income.

You may also like:

  1. Highest Paying Jobs in Singapore

  2. Most In-Demand Jobs in Singapore

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What Are The Advantages Of Freelancing In Singapore?

For some, freelance jobs may offer a way to recover from the financial challenges the Covid pandemic has thrown at them. It may also be a way to weather a career transition or set out in a different career path.

Under best-case scenarios, freelancers make significantly more money than those who are tied to a single employer. Here are some other advantages of taking on a freelance job in Singapore:

  • Control & flexibility: You can accept or reject assignments, and you can often control when you perform the work.
  • Tax advantages: There are some caveats to this perk (see the What about taxes? section), but you can often claim tax reductions from travel, meals, and so on. Also, state and federal taxes aren’t withheld from each paycheck automatically.
  • Improved work/life balance: Many freelance jobs eliminate the need for a commute. You can work from wherever you want to, as long as you can fulfill the assignment’s requirements.

What Are The Disadvantages Of Freelancing In Singapore?

If you live in Singapore or are contemplating doing so, you most likely already know that Singapore is one of the most expensive places to live on the planet. When you factor in a pandemic that’s left economies worldwide reeling, you may need to look for a steady, predictable job that will cover your basic needs. Sure, there can be financial rewards to freelancing in Singapore, but there are also risks.

Here are some other potential disadvantages of freelancing in Singapore:

  • Irregular income: When you start off as a freelancer, your pay will likely be on the low side. And if you don’t work on a regular schedule, you may not get paid on a regular schedule. You’ll probably experience both feast and famine.
  • It requires superior organizational skills: If you don’t already have excellent organizational skills, you’ll have to learn them. Juggling multiple clients is essential to maximizing your freelance income.
  • You won’t receive employer CPF contributions, so you need to plan for your retirement. Also, you’ll need to save up for your compulsory Medisave contributions. With income above $18,000, your Medisave contribution will be 8% of your earnings if you’re under 35 years of age. That contribution climbs to 9% if you’re aged 35-45. 

What About Taxes?

As we’ve already discussed, the IRAS considers freelancers as self-employed. As a self-employed person, you must pay income tax and contribute to your Medisave account, the national medical savings scheme for permanent residents and citizens.

According to the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS), how you’re taxed depends on whether you’re an employee or self-employed. Freelancers are often but not always considered self-employed for tax purposes. Check the IRAS article linked above to help clarify your situation.

If you’ve spent more than 183 days in Singapore and worked for all those days, you’re considered a tax resident. Your progressive tax rate will be anywhere from 2-22%, depending on how much you make.

As a non-resident, you’ll probably be taxed a flat withholding tax rate. The rate varies depending upon your type of income. For example, if you’re a freelancer who works in a professional capacity—think trainers, consultants, or coaches—you’ll pay 15% of your gross income or 22% of your net income in taxes.

Is Freelancing Legal In Singapore?

Freelancing is an open industry with few barriers or restrictions to entry. Depending on the industry you’re in, you won’t need any licenses. However, other trades, such as operating a food stall or ride-sharing services, may require licenses. For considerations on licensing, taxes, scope of services, and more, check out this advice.

Whether operating your own vehicle as a taxi is freelancing is somewhat of a gray area. You’re providing the car, but the platform provides the customers. Be advised, though, that Ryde or Grab drivers need a PDVL (Private Hire Car Driver’s License) to transport passengers by private car in Singapore. Also, you’ll need to attend a 10-hour training course where you pay $40 application fees. See how here.

In general, though, most freelancers, especially creatives, won’t need licenses. However, clients will probably want to examine your portfolio and, if applicable, your academic qualifications to determine if you’re a good fit for their project.

Can Foreigners Freelance in Singapore?

The short answer is that only Singaporean citizens or permanent residents can be legally self-employed. Foreigners aren’t permitted to work without a Work Permit, Employment Pass or S Pass.

The long answer is that there are two ways to circumvent the prohibitions against foreigners’ employment. First, you can set up a local business with a minimum of one Singaporean resident as a director. Second, you can apply for an Entrepass. To do that, you’ll have to incorporate a company and raise a minimum amount of funding. Similarly, you can seek partnerships with approved organizations.

What about if your partner or spouse is a Singapore resident? If you’re currently living in Singapore under a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) or Dependent’s Pass (DP), you can’t legally work without a Work Permit, S-Pass, Employment Pass (EP), or Letter of Consent. An employer will need to apply for any of these authorizations from the Ministry of Manpower.

The Letter of Consent can also accommodate LTVP or DP holders residing in Singapore under their partner’s or spouse’s EP. As soon as the EP expires, though, the Letter of Consent is invalid.

How Do Freelancers Prove Income?

As a freelancer, there may be occasions when you need to prove your income. Getting a home loan, for instance, requires you to produce financial documentation.

The primary documents you’ll need are the IRAS-issued income tax statements. Some lenders will need the notice of assessment (NOA) for the latest year, but more often, you’ll have to provide them for the past three years. Your NOA can be accessed via the IRAS website with SINGPASS.

Be aware that lenders shave 30% off freelancers’ income to compute the maximum amount they’ll lend.

Another document that lenders accept at face value is a CPF contribution statement. Although you’re not required to pay into CPF as a freelancer, it would be wise to make voluntary contributions, at least during the feasting months.

The amount contributed towards CPF is determined by specific criteria. Therefore, knowing the prospective borrower’s age and the CPF contribution will allow a banker to calculate the gross monthly income of most applicants.

How Do I Start Freelancing?

Like anything else, a freelance job begins as an idea. Brainstorm the skills you have to offer prospective clients. Then decide on the skills you want to provide as a service. Ensure that you:

  1. Enjoy using the skill you plan to offer.
  2. Are either competent at that skill or can become qualified with additional training.
  3. Can locate clients who will pay for your skill.

That last point is worth noting. You may “love” doing something, but if you can’t find or create a market for it, you won’t be able to make a living at it.

As freelance web designer Paul Jarvis explained in a Creative Class podcast:

“[When deciding on our freelance niche], we really need to think about: Is this a niche or a group of businesses that can sustain my business financially? Because it would be really cool if I did websites for indie bands, right? But indie bands don’t have any money! So that’s not sustainable!”

Suppose you don’t have any in-demand skills? Continue to think outside of the box, develop a skill, or keep your day job.

How Can I Get A Freelance Job With No Experience?

Credentials may help you get your foot in the door. At the outset, though, you won’t be able to command top rates. You may have to take on low-paying or even ‘voluntary’ gigs to gain freelance experience and confidence in your skills.

Freelancers in creative industries need to beef up their portfolios to attract their ideal clients. Realise, though, that a portfolio is always a work in progress.

Network with those already established in your field and pick their brains for what worked for them. Optimize your LinkedIn portfolio and ask for referrals. And check out GrabJobs for freelance job opportunities.

What Are The 5 Best Freelance Jobs?

1 - Homage Care Professional

Create a world where our loved ones are well taken care of! Join Homage to deliver dedicated home care, nursing care, and therapy to more in the community.

If you are passionate to support your community and help to improve the quality of elderly lives, you can explore freelancing opportunities as a Homage Caregiver, Nurse or Therapist.

👉   Browse Homage freelancing jobs

2 - Tutor

Tutoring can be personally and financially rewarding. Many private tuition teachers earn six-figure annual incomes. Fueled by kiasu parents who force their children to spend excessive amounts of time in tuition, this is a recession-resistant industry.

So what’s the profit potential for freelance tutors? Expect to make at least $20 an hour for primary students and $25 an hour for secondary students. Upper secondary students often pay upward of $40 an hour, while junior college students pay $50 or more per hour.

If loyal students recommend you, parents will gladly pay a premium price. And if you’re an ex-MOE teacher, you may even command $75 an hour and above. To reach the top income levels of freelance tutoring, consider teaching group classes.

👉   Browse Tutor Jobs on GrabJobs

3 - Social Media Manager

Here’s a skill you might have overlooked in your inventory: a social media manager. Do you obsess over growing your Instagram following? Then you might want to get paid to do the same thing for companies as their social media manager.

A freelance social media manager manages a business’s social media account, grows its following, and create posts and graphics. Depending on the job description, you may manage Facebook ads, too.

You’ll find these jobs in different flavours. Some may require writing skills, while others call for graphic design. Make sure to go after positions that match your skillset.

So much can you expect to get paid? That depends on factors such as how much work is involved and your experience. You may charge anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand per month for managing a small business’s accounts.

👉   Browse Social Media Jobs on GrabJobs

4 - Writer

Do you have a way with words? Then you might want to try your hand at freelance writing.

This is one of those creative jobs that requires you to build a strong portfolio and work hard to break through. Ensure that you have an excellent command of the language you’re writing in, or you’ll go hungry.

It’s hard to define how much a freelance writer can get paid. The pay can range anywhere from a few dollars for a random article on the internet to thousands of dollars for a long-form article in a well-paying publication.

👉   Browse Writer Jobs on GrabJobs

5 - Web Designer

Most Singaporean companies don’t employ in-house web designers. But at some point, these companies realize that their websites look like outdated and will hire a freelancer to bring their websites up to date.

Your skills, portfolio, and how far you’re willing to get out of your comfort zone will determine the types of clients you’ll serve. If you’re self-taught, how much you can charge will depend on your technical mastery as well as your design skills. For example, if you offer UI and UX design, you can charge significantly more than someone who just does basic websites.

For a basic five-page website, expect to be paid at least $2,000 to $3,000. Learn UI and UX to ramp up your income.

👉   Browse Web Designer Jobs on GrabJobs

Is It Worth It To Freelance in Singapore?

Whether it’s worth it to work at a freelance job is a question that only you can answer. And you may have to revisit that decision periodically. As your wants and needs change, you may decide that you’d prefer freelance jobs. However, you may also realize that full-time employment alone may work better for you at another stage in your life.

One of the major advantages of being a freelancer is that it allows you greater control over your schedule. In many cases, you can control your income rates too. For instance, if you want to take a week off, you’re free to do so. If you don’t want to take on a specific job or work with a particular client, you can politely decline.

Concentrating on specific clients or gigs may allow you to grow your income faster. However, if you opt out of too many opportunities, especially initially, you may find your income declines proportionately.

If you value flexibility more than achieving a certain income level right away, a freelance job may be a good fit for you. Carefully consider the Advantages and Disadvantages sections at the beginning of this article to help you decide whether to pursue a freelance job in Singapore.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – a list of the 5 highest paying freelance jobs in Singapore!

If you’ve weighed the pros and cons of freelancing in Singapore and decide to give it a try, check out GrabJob’s freelance listings. GrabJobs is a recruitment platform and job website headquartered in Singapore. On our site, you’ll find a wide variety of job listings.

We hope this article has provided you with a wealth of information to jump-start your freelance career. No matter the industry or the position, remember to visit GrabJobs to find a job opportunity in Singapore easily! If you think you need more information about the life in Singapore before jumping for a job, visit Sapore di Cina!

Top 30 Highest Paying Careers for Women in Singapore (with Salary)

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careers for women in Singapore

Over the last several years, Singapore has seen record numbers of women joining the workforce. It’s increased by over 15 percent!

Singapore also outperforms many other Asian countries when it comes to women in the workplace and closing the pay gap between men and women.

Are you a woman looking for work in Singapore? Do you want to maximize your earning potential, whether you’re looking for a new job or are reentering the workforce after a break?

If you want to learn about the highest-paying jobs in Singapore across the board, check out this article here. However, to learn high-paying jobs for women, specifically, continue with this guide to learn about some of the top careers for women in Singapore.

You may also like:

  1. Highest Paying Jobs in Singapore

  2. Most In-Demand Jobs in Singapore

  3. High Paying Part Time Jobs in Singapore

What Are the Top 10 High-Paying Careers for Women Working in Singapore?

When they start searching for and learning about the top careers for women in Singapore, most people are specifically asking, “what are the top high-paying careers for women in Singapore?”

To earn as much money as possible as a woman working in Singapore, the following are some of the best career options:

1. Specialist Medical Practitioner

  • Job Description: Practitioners like anesthesiologists and emergency room physicians offer patients highly specialized medical care.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: This is one of the top Singapore careers for women with high salaries because there’s a strong demand for healthcare workers throughout the city-state.
  • Average Salary: $10,000 to $28,000 per month

2. Lawyer

  • Job Description: Lawyers advise and represent clients in court.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: Women who work in the legal field can earn high salaries, especially as they gain experience and rise through the ranks within their firms.
  • Average Salary: $10,000 to $27,000 per month

3. Fund Portfolio Manager

  • Job Description: Fund portfolio managers handle investment funds and assets for businesses and individuals.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: Women are underrepresented in this field now, but they’re beginning to pursue it (and other careers in finance) more frequently.
  • Average Salary: $12,000 to $27,000 per month

4. Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

  • Job Description: Chief Financial Officers oversee all the key components of a company’s financial operations.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: Women who work in c-level positions, including as CFOs, have the opportunity to earn high salaries and diversify companies from the top down.
  • Average Salary: $12,500 to $27000 per month

5. Software Developer

  • Job Description: Software developers plan, design, and create a wide range of computer programs.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: The tech sphere is certainly a male-dominated one, but more women are pursuing tech-related careers now than ever before, and lots of companies are looking to expand their number of female employees.
  • Average Salary: $6,500 to $10,000 per month

6. Healthcare General Manager

  • Job Description: Healthcare general managers assist with all aspects related to running healthcare practices, clinics, and hospitals
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: Administrative positions like this are a good fit for women who want to enjoy the monetary benefits of a healthcare career but don’t want to work directly with patients
  • Average Salary: $15,000 to $25,000 per month

7. Management Consultant

  • Job Description: Management consultants identify ways for businesses to reduce costs, increase revenue, increase efficiency, and become more profitable.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: When it comes to Singapore careers for women with high salary, management consulting is one of the best choices, especially as more women begin working their way up to management positions in the business field.
  • Average Salary: $10,000 to $14,500 per month

8. Chief Human Resources Officer

  • Job Description: The chief human resources officer is in charge of recruiting, hiring, maintaining morale, handling payments and benefits, and more.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: Women often do very well in careers in human resources and can help companies make the best decisions for their future.
  • Average Salary: $12,500 to $27,000 per month

9. Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

  • Job Description: Chief Technology Officers oversee the development and distribution of technology for the company’s customers and vendors. They may also assist with internal IT-related issues.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: As more women begin pursuing careers in tech, more opportunities arise for women to take on c-level tech positions.
  • Average Salary: $12,000 to $25,000 per month

10. Civil Engineer

  • Job Description: Civil engineers assist with designing and building major transportation and infrastructure-related projects.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: Singapore is known for its impressive infrastructure, and many women are beginning to seek careers in this rapidly growing field.
  • Average Salary: $7,000 to $15,000 per month

What Are the Top 10 High-Growth Careers for Women in Singapore?

Now that you know about the top high-paying careers for women in Singapore, let’s address the top 10 high-growth careers for women in Singapore. The following are 10 of the careers that will provide lots of upward mobility and opportunities for you to rise through the ranks:

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Specialist

  • Job Description: AI specialists focus on improving machine learning for companies in tech, healthcare, finance, and more.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: The tech industry is expanding and becoming more important in Singapore, and women have lots of opportunities to learn and grow within this field.
  • Average Salary: $6,800 per month

2. Robotics Engineer

  • Job Description: Robotics engineers develop and deploy robotics technology to assist with automation for various businesses.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: Women are also entering the robotics field at higher volumes than ever before, and lots of fast-growing companies are looking to bring on female robotics engineers.
  • Average Salary: $4,500 per month

3. Full-Stack Engineer

  • Job Description: Full-stack engineers assist with frontend and backend web development for a variety of tech companies.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: Full-stack engineering is one of the best jobs for women in Singapore who want to build a career in tech and work their way up to higher-level positions.
  • Average Salary: $6,500 per month

4. Backend Web Developer

  • Job Description: Backend web developers assist with the behind-the-scenes aspects of website and app development.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: This is another good option for women who want to build a career in tech and gain experience that can help them qualify for higher-level positions in the future.
  • Average Salary: $6,400 per month

5. DevOps Engineer

  • Job Description: DevOps engineers combine deep engineering knowledge with hands-on development experience.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: This is a good career for women who want to advance in the tech world and find jobs at some of Singapore’s top tech companies.
  • Average Salary: $8,700 per month

6. Cybersecurity Specialist

  • Job Description: Cybersecurity specialists help businesses protect their data and their customers’ data.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: This is a high-paying tech career and, like many other tech companies in Singapore, lots of businesses are looking to diversify their hires and bring on more women to fill this role.
  • Average Salary: $8,800 per month

7. Community Manager

  • Job Description: Community managers are in charge of handling companies’ communities (customers, clients, etc.) online and in-person to build stronger relationships.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: Women often do a great job in community manager roles and help to bring everyone together.
  • Average Salary: $4,400 per month

8. Clinical Specialist

  • Job Description: Clinical specialists work in the healthcare field to ensure that patients and healthcare workers are taken care of and receive the support they need.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: Women often find fulfillment and growth opportunities in healthcare careers, and clinical specialist positions are no exception.
  • Average Salary: $4,300 per month

9. E-Commerce Specialist

  • Job Description: E-commerce specialists assist businesses with e-commerce sales, marketing, fulfillment, and more.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: E-commerce specialist jobs are some of the best jobs for women in Singapore because the e-commerce field is growing rapidly, which creates new opportunities for women seeking career changes.
  • Average Salary: $3,000 per month

10. Customer Success Specialist

  • Job Description: Customer success specialists ensure that customers are well cared for and receive the service they need to remain loyal to a specific business.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: Women often find success in customer service/customer success roles and have an easy time rising through the ranks.
  • Average Salary: $6,000 per month

What Are the Top 10 Most Rewarding Careers for Women Working in Singapore?


In addition to searching for high-paying and high-growth careers for women in Singapore, it’s also important to look for a career that is rewarding and fulfilling. After all, it doesn’t matter how much money you make or how far you advance within the company if you’re miserable the entire time.

Listed below are 10 of the most rewarding careers for women working in Singapore

1. Veterinarian

  • Job Description: Veterinarians offer preventive and emergency care for pets of all kinds.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: Veterinary medicine is a fulfilling, well-paid career that many women find rewarding.
  • Average Salary: $7,000 per month

2. Aged Care Worker

  • Job Description: Aged care workers provide health care and companionship for elderly people.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: This is one of the best careers for women in Singapore that offers a lot of fulfillment and job satisfaction.
  • Average Salary: $2,600 per month

3. Mental Health Worker

  • Job Description: Mental health workers provide support and resources to people struggling with their mental health
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: Women often find careers supporting others’ mental health to be rewarding and monetarily satisfying.
  • Average Salary: $5,500 per month

4. Early Childhood Education Teacher

  • Job Description: Early childhood education teachers teach and care for young, preschool-aged children.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: Women often seek out and find satisfaction with careers in education, especially early childhood education.
  • Average Salary: $3,000 per month

5. Elementary/Secondary School Teacher

  • Job Description: Secondary school teachers instruct children of elementary and secondary school age.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: Teaching is one of the most rewarding careers for women working in Singapore, and it provides lots of opportunities to shape others’ lives.
  • Average Salary: $3,800 per month

6. Personal Trainer

  • Job Description: Personal trainers work with individuals to help them achieve their fitness goals.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: Women can be more approachable and encouraging to other women who are looking to improve their fitness.
  • Average Salary: $6,000 per month

7. Human Resources Manager

  • Job Description: Human resource managers assist with recruiting, hiring, managing benefits and salary negotiations, and help with personnel-related tasks.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: Human resource managers are paid well and often find fulfillment in their jobs, making this one of the best careers for women in Singapore.
  • Average Salary: $5,600 per month

8. Nurse

  • Job Description: Nurses assist physicians and surgeons to care for patients.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: Nurses are paid well in Singapore, and women often find a lot of fulfillment and satisfaction working in this field.
  • Average Salary: $6,000 per month

9. Physical Therapist

  • Job Description: Physical therapists create plans to help individuals recover from surgeries, injuries, and more.
  • Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: Women often find careers as physical therapists quite rewarding and enjoy the patient care aspects of the job, as well as the benefits of owning their own practices.
  • Average Salary: $6,500 per month

10. Dentist

  1. Job Description: Dentists clean teeth, fill cavities and help patients to manage their oral health.
  2. Why Is it a Top Career for Women in Singapore: A career as a dentist is one of the top jobs for women in Singapore, both in terms of job satisfaction and salaries/benefits.
  3. Average Salary: $11,500 per month

How to Get Started in One of the Top Careers for Women in Singapore?


Being aware of the top jobs for women in Singapore is a great starting point. Once you know about the job opportunities in this city-state, though, your next job is to figure out how you can present yourself to increase your chances of getting hired.

Outlined below are some essential steps every woman should take when searching and applying for jobs in Singapore:

Assess Your Work Eligibility

Before you begin your job search, make sure you’re eligible to work in Singapore. This is especially important for expats. The Ministry of Manpower in Singapore offers an online self-assessment tool that you can use to gauge your eligibility.

Outlined below are some essential steps every woman should take when searching and applying for jobs in Singapore:

Update Your Resume and CV

Next, update your resume and CV (curriculum vitae) so that it features a comprehensive breakdown of your work experience, education, and skills. Do this early so you have all essential documentation ready to go when you start filling out job applications.

If you’re struggling with updating your CV, consider hiring a professional CV writing firm. 

Build Your Network

Building your network and connecting with other professionals in the field in which you want to work helps you to learn about job openings you wouldn’t have known about otherwise. You can also make friends with people who can put in a good word for you when you start submitting applications.

Practice Addressing Your Resume Gap

If you’re returning to the workforce after a break (perhaps you took some time off to care for children or took some medical leave), be prepared to explain the gap in your resume, too.

A lot of women worry about this, but there are lots of ways you can address it and illustrate why you’re a good fit for the job. You can talk about the continuous learning you’ve done during your break to show that you can keep up with your peers, for example.

Know How to Negotiate Your Salary

Many women struggle with salary negotiations. They might feel that it’s rude or presumptuous to ask for a higher salary than what the company is offering, or they might simply feel uncomfortable talking about money.

If you aren’t sure where to begin, the following tips can help:

  • Research and find out what the average salary is for the job for which you’re applying
  • Be polite but firm when turning down the offered salary and suggesting a different one (practice saying this with a friend or in front of the mirror so you can sound confident during the negotiation process)
  • Be prepared to walk away if they aren’t willing to negotiate and pay you what you’re worth

Apply for a Work Visa

If you’re an expat looking for work in Singapore, remember that you’ll also need to apply for a work visa so you can legally be employed. You can apply online here and have your application processed within 7 days.

Land One of the Top Careers for Women in Singapore Today

It doesn’t matter if you’re a Singapore native who’s getting back into the workforce or you’re a female expat looking to find a good job here. The resources above can simplify your search and help you to find the right career for you faster. Remember them as you begin the job hunt.

The Complete Singapore Salary Guide [year]

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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.

You may also like:

  1. Highest Paying Jobs in Singapore

  2. Most In-Demand Jobs in Singapore

  3. High Paying Part Time Jobs in Singapore

The GrabJobs Singapore Salary Guide Tool

The complete Singapore Salary Guide

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 [year]?

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 [year] 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 [year] 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 [year]?

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.