Singapore job market divide: AI experts in demand, but workers prefer pet-sitting, chauffeuring

The most-clicked jobs by Singaporean workers leaned toward service and support roles.

In Singapore's job market, a stark contrast is emerging: while employers chase cutting-edge innovation, job seekers are gravitating toward accessible, flexible roles like pet sitters and chauffeurs. Job-matching platform Indeed’s 2024 Rising Jobs report exposes this dichotomy amid shifting priorities in a post-pandemic landscape.

Indeed's study analysed job postings and click trends between November 2023 and November 2024, revealing a surge in demand for roles in artificial intelligence, infrastructure, and marketing. Yet, the most-clicked jobs by Singaporean workers leaned toward service and support roles.

Among the fastest-growing job postings were roles like sales and marketing managers (up 127%), machine learning engineers (+83%), and civil engineers (+65%). These trends align with Singapore’s ongoing investments in innovation and infrastructure, including a $743 million commitment to artificial intelligence announced in February 2024 by then Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.

“Sales and marketing managers are becoming pivotal as businesses strive to stand out in a crowded digital marketplace,” said Saumitra Chand, career expert at Indeed told told CNBC Make It. “Professionals with skills in video production, SEO, and campaign management are highly sought after as technology, e-commerce, and lifestyle sectors expand.”

Chand added that the growing demand for civil engineers and machine learning experts reflects Singapore’s push to enhance its technological capabilities and sustain urban development.

What Workers Seek

On the other hand, the top roles catching job seekers' attention included pet sitters (+260%), chauffeurs (+184%), and bakery assistants (+156%). For many, these jobs represent a refuge from high-stakes, high-pressure careers.

“For many, roles like pet sitting or chauffeuring offer something that high-stakes jobs often struggle to provide: simplicity, flexibility, and a sense of control,” Chand told CNBC Make It.

The desire for flexible work arrangements and manageable responsibilities appears to be a residual effect of the pandemic, compounded by Singapore’s high cost of living. Job seekers increasingly prioritise roles that are immediately accessible, with minimal training or time commitments, to meet their financial needs.

Singapore job postings with highest growth (November 2023 and November 2024):

Sales and marketing manager +127%
Machine learning engineer +83%
Resident engineer +75%
Civil engineer +65%
Assistant cook +65%
Center manager +64%
Management associate +63%
Trainer +62%
Digital marketer +58%
Accounts payable clerk +57%

Singapore job postings with highest increase in clicks from job seekers:

Pet sitter +260%
Chauffeur +184%
Sales advisor +165%
Bakery assistant +156%
Zookeeper +149%
Information technology intern +142%
Senior graphic designer +140%
Front desk receptionist +137%
Managing director +124%
Banking associate +117%