Singapore’s tech job market is cooling, with up to 80% of professionals facing fewer opportunities, though top-tier talent remains highly sought after, according to industry experts. NodeFlair CEO Ethan Ang said the top 10–20% of tech professionals, particularly those with AI expertise, are in strong demand and may receive multiple job offers.
Data from Indeed shows job postings for IT infrastructure, operations, and support fell 17.6% between May and August, while data and analytics roles dropped 15.9%. Salary growth has also slowed, with software engineers seeing a modest 3.3% increase in 2024. Programming skills in Python and SQL remain highly valued, alongside AI competencies including machine learning, generative AI, and agentic AI.
AI roles dominate demand, appearing in 57% of data and analytics postings, 39% of software development roles, and 35% of scientific research positions. Globally, AI, cybersecurity, and digital marketing specialists can command up to 25% premiums above base salaries, according to Deel.For fresh graduates, work experience through internships is crucial, as companies increasingly seek adaptive, passionate professionals with hands-on skills. Singapore’s tech workforce still grew 2.7% in 2024, with median wages rising to S$7,950, well above the national median.
National initiatives, including the graduate traineeship programme and AI Apprenticeship Programme, aim to upskill local talent and bridge gaps in emerging areas such as AI, helping Singapore’s tech sector navigate the shift from an extreme employer market towards a more balanced talent landscape.