Skip to main content

2026 Singapore Job Market Outlook: Teachers & Software Developers Are Most In-Demand Jobs

Job hunting? Find out the most in-demand jobs and growth sectors this year.

in demand jobs - teaching

 

Singapore Employers Move Towards Skills-Based Hiring

At a Glance: 

  • Most in-demand PMET roles include Teaching, marketing, and software development.
  • Growth is strong in the Information & Communications, Financial & Insurance, and Professional Services sectors.
  • Employers are increasingly valuing practical experience and adaptability over formal degrees.

It’s no secret that it’s a tough job market out there. But as 2026 unfolds, there is plenty of reason for optimism. Employers are being more intentional in their hiring, opening doors for candidates who invest in the right capabilities. 

This year, teaching roles remain the most in-demand, followed by marketing executives and software developers, as organisations expand their AI and digital initiatives. With PMET roles making up more than half of all job vacancies, 2026 is shaping up to be a year of opportunity for skilled professionals. 

 

Top Job Vacancies in Singapore

If you’re stuck in the endless cycle of filling out job applications, multiple interview rounds, and stiff competition, it might not feel like it — but there are many vacancies out there if you know where to look.

Based on Ministry of Manpower (MOM) data, several PMET roles continue to see strong hiring. These include auditors, financial advisers, software developers, data scientists, and nurses. Teaching and training professionals stand out again this year, ranking as the most sought-after roles for the second year running. Strategic planning and business development managers also feature among popular roles for managers and degree holders.

top job vacancies singapore

For non-PMET roles, hiring remains active for jobs like waiters, retail assistants, construction workers, security officers, and drivers. Civil engineers and building construction labourers have also seen a big jump, moving from fifth place to the top of the list in this category, largely due to an influx in infrastructure projects such as MRT network upgrades. 

 

2026 Job Market Growth Sectors 

Strong opportunities for PMET roles continue to emerge in key growth sectors, including Information and Communications, Financial and Insurance Services, and Professional Services.

Beyond these sectors, a clear cross-industry trend is the rapid push towards AI adoption, which is creating a growing shortage of talent in AI governance. Recruiters note that demand for AI skills is no longer limited to the tech sector, expanding to general roles such as software engineers and data scientists as well.

At the same time more positions are emerging for professionals with expertise in AI governance and cybersecurity, an area where talent remains in short supply. Demand for these specialised roles is said to have grown 5% to 10% each year.

Besides that, broader growth areas such as sustainability, healthcare, green jobs, and health tech continue to need strong talent. Competition for these roles is likely to remain high throughout 2026.

 

Skills That Drive New Opportunity

If you’ve been “job hugging” and waiting for the right opportunity, it’s time to get strategic and stand out.

Hiring is expected to become more targeted, focusing on productivity and efficiency. Employers will have higher expectations, with greater emphasis on practical experience and adaptability. Many are also moving beyond traditional degrees or certifications, instead valuing the projects candidates have handled or credentials that showcase their tech capabilities.

In short, skills are the new currency of the labour market, and the year is shaping up to reward those ready to showcase theirs.

 

Take the First Step 

It’s easy to feel at the mercy of the job market, but small steps can help you take control of your path. Learning something new, meeting people, or simply exploring what’s out there can make a real difference.

Lifelong Learning Singapore works closely with the Community Development Councils (CDCs) to bring jobs and skills opportunities directly to communities across Singapore. One such event is the Learning Neighbourhood @ North East happening from 16–18 January at Our Tampines Hub and 22–25 January at Punggol Waterway Point. 

Learning Neighbourhood OTH Waterway point

It’s a convenient way to try new skills, meet training providers, get advice from our Skills Ambassadors and explore potential roles right in your community. Save the date and check out the full list of activities and participating employers here!

To discover more activities and opportunities throughout Singapore, check out our Events page or explore the MySkillsFuture Portal to browse courses and take your next steps, no matter where you are.

Subscribe to our mailing list to receive the latest updates on events, workshops, articles, and more.

 

Posted on 1/15/2026 7:00:00 PM