Part-Time Jobs in Singapore

18 min read

If the movie “Crazy Rich Asians” left you dreaming about the dazzling life in Singapore, diving into part-time jobs in Singapore can be your first step to experiencing the city’s dynamic culture and opportunities!

Exploring part-time job opportunities while studying in Singapore can significantly ease your financial burden and enrich your experience in this vibrant global hub. Singapore, known for its dynamic job market, offers numerous part-time positions across various sectors. It allows international students like you to manage living expenses and gain valuable work experience concurrently.

Beyond securing a job, studying in Singapore also means you will be studying at some of the best institutions, including the following, which are ranked within the top 20 universities in the world by the QS World Rankings 2025. 

• National University of Singapore (NUS): #8
• Nanyang Technological University (NTU): #15 

These universities promise academic excellence and immerse you in a multicultural environment that enhances your learning journey.

However, before kick-starting this educational adventure, planning your finances wisely is essential. Studying in Singapore includes tuition fees ranging from INR 10L to INR 75L (SGD 16K to SGD 120K) annually, depending on your chosen program and institution. 

Additionally, other expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other essentials can amount to approximately INR 1.2L to INR 4L (SGD 2K to SGD 6.7K) per month.

By strategically balancing part-time work opportunities with your academic pursuits, finding part-time jobs in Singapore can be a game-changer, helping to cover your expenses effectively. 

This approach not only helps you manage your finances effectively but also enriches your overall educational journey in one of Asia’s most dynamic cities.

This guide will help you explore the different aspects of part-time jobs in Singapore, focusing on the highest-paying jobs, top industries, search tools, and essential guidelines. Whether you’re searching for part-time work for students in Singapore or part-time contract jobs in Singapore, this comprehensive guide is for you.

Here’s a key highlights table with the important facts that you’ll get to know in this blog.

Category	Details
Top Highest Paying Part-Time Jobs in Singapore	Private Tutor Freelance Writer Graphic Designer
Pay Range (Monthly)	INR 62k – 1.9L (SGD 1,000 – 3,000)
Popular Student Areas	Retail Events Research Digital Marketing
Work Hours Permitted for International Students	Max 16 hours per week during term Full-time during breaks
Popular Job Search Platforms in Singapore	JobStreet MyCareersFuture FastJobs Glints InternSG
Work Experience Benefits	Skill enhancement Professional networking  Extra income

Top 10 Highest Paying Part-Time Jobs in Singapore

Have you ever wondered how much you can earn with a part-time job? Well, the numbers are in, and they’re impressive. As of July 2024, part-time employees in Singapore are raking in an average annual salary of INR 19L (SGD 31k). That’s right, just by working part-time, you could earn around INR 1.6L (SGD 2.7k) monthly.

Imagine earning INR 41k (SGD 660) each week or even INR 900 (SGD 14) an hour! Whether you’re balancing studies or looking to gain some extra experience and cash, Singapore’s part-time job market is thriving with opportunities. 

Dive into this exciting job market and make the most of your time in Singapore!

Here is a table with the average salaries for the top 10 highest-paying part-time jobs in Singapore for Indians.

Job Role	Average Monthly Salary (INR)
Private Tutor	INR 1.2L (SGD 2000)
Freelance Writer	INR 1.5L (SGD 2,500)
Graphic Designer	INR 1.8L (SGD 3,000)
Retail Sales Associate	INR 1.2L (SGD 2,000)
Event Coordinator	INR 1L (SGD 1600)
Research Assistant	INR 1L (SGD 1700)
Digital Marketer	INR 1.1L (SGD 1,800)
Barista	INR 61k (SGD 1,000)
Fitness Trainer	INR 1.8L (SGD 3,000)
Delivery Rider	INR 1.5L (SGD 2,500)

Listed below is a brief description of each job role and the skills required for you to be able to gain a job! 

1. Private Tutor

Private tutoring is a popular part-time job for students. If you excel in subjects like Science, Mathematics, or English, you can offer tutoring services to school students. This job allows flexibility in scheduling and the potential to earn a high hourly rate.

Skills Required:

• Strong knowledge in specific subjects
• Excellent communication and teaching skills
• Patience and adaptability
• Organisational skills
• Ability to create engaging lesson plans
  

2. Freelance Writer

Freelance writing can be lucrative if you have a knack for writing. Many companies and websites like Hire Digital seek content writers, bloggers, and copywriters. This job offers flexibility and the opportunity to work from home.

Skills Required:

• Strong writing and grammar skills
• Creativity and originality
• Research skills
• Time management
• Understanding of SEO (Search Engine Optimisation)
  

3. Graphic Designer

If you have skills in graphic design, you can take up freelance projects. Companies such as Cloud & Victory often need designers for marketing materials, websites, and social media. This role will allow you to showcase your creativity and work on various projects.

Skills Required:

• Proficiency in design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite)
• Creativity and artistic skills
• Attention to detail
• Ability to meet deadlines
• Strong portfolio of design work
  

4. Retail Sales Associate

Working in retail is a common part-time job for students. As a sales associate, you will assist customers, manage inventory, and handle sales transactions. This job provides valuable customer service experience and flexible hours.

Skills Required:

• Customer service skills
• Communication skills
• Basic maths skills
• Ability to work in a team
• Organisational skills
  

5. Event Coordinator

Event coordination involves planning and managing events such as weddings, corporate functions, and parties. This position demands strong organisational abilities and provides an opportunity to thrive in a dynamic work environment.

Skills Required:

• Strong organisational skills
• Attention to detail
• Time management
• Communication and negotiation skills
• Problem-solving abilities
  

6. Research Assistant

Research assistants support professors or researchers in academic or commercial research projects. This role is ideal for you if you are pursuing research-oriented courses, providing hands-on experience and networking opportunities.

Skills Required:

• Analytical skills
• Attention to detail
• Proficiency in research methodologies
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Time management
  

7. Digital Marketer

Digital marketing is booming as businesses move online. Proficiency in SEO, social media marketing, and content creation can secure part-time opportunities in this field, often including remote work options.

Skills Required:

• Knowledge of SEO and SEM
• Proficiency in social media platforms
• Content creation and copywriting skills
• Analytical skills
• Understanding of digital marketing tools and techniques
  

8. Barista

Working as a barista in cafes or coffee shops is a popular part-time job. You will prepare and serve coffee, manage customer orders, and maintain a clean workspace. This job is ideal for those who wish to venture in the hospitality sector as it also adds relevant skills in the resume. .

Skills Required:

• Customer service skills
• Ability to work under pressure
• Knowledge of coffee preparation techniques
• Attention to detail
• Teamwork
  

9. Fitness Trainer

If you are passionate about fitness and have certification, becoming a part-time fitness trainer can be rewarding. You can conduct personal training sessions, group classes, or work at a gym. This job allows you to share your knowledge and stay fit.

Skills Required:

• Knowledge of fitness and nutrition
• Certification in fitness training
• Motivation and people skills
• Ability to create workout plans
• Communication skills
  

10. Delivery Rider

Delivery riders work for food delivery services like GrabFood or Deliveroo. This job offers flexible hours and the opportunity to earn tips. It’s suitable if you prefer active work and enjoy being on the move.

Skills Required:

• Knowledge of the local area
• Time management
• Physical stamina
• Customer service skills
• Basic knowledge of smartphone apps and GPS systems

Also Read: Average Salary in Singapore for Indian Students: Find Out Here!

Top Industries Offering Part-Time Jobs in Singapore

Showing a significant change, the accommodation sector saw a notable increase in part-time jobs, rising from 7.7% in 2022 to 14.0% in 2023. This highlights a growing trend across different industries in Singapore, where part-time work is becoming more common. 

To give you a clearer picture, here’s a closer look at the top industries and major companies that usually hire for part-time roles.

Industry	Top Hiring Companies
Retail	UniqloWatsonsFairPriceDecathlonH&M
Hospitality	Marina Bay SandsShangri-La HotelStarbucksMcDonald’sKFC
Education	KumonThe Learning LabNTUNUSSMU
Events & Entertainment	PicoSingapore ExpoResorts World SentosaWild Rice
Delivery Services	GrabFoodDeliverooFoodpandaNinja VanLalamove

For a deeper understanding of the key positions that are usually available in these industries, read below.

Retail

Retail stores, supermarkets, and boutiques frequently hire part-time sales associates, cashiers, and stock clerks. These jobs provide flexible hours and valuable customer service experience.

You can expect to earn an hourly wage of INR 650 (SGD 10) working part-time in the retail sector. 

Hospitality

Hotels, restaurants, and cafes often require part-time staff for roles such as waitstaff, baristas, and front desk assistants. The hospitality industry is ideal for you if you are looking for evening or weekend shifts. 

You can expect to earn an hourly wage of INR 750 to INR 900 (SGD 12 to SGD 14) working part-time in the hospitality sector.

Education

Educational institutions and private tutoring centres offer part-time positions like teaching assistants, tutors, and administrative support. This industry is perfect for those with strong academic skills. 

You can expect to earn an hourly wage of INR 1,800 (SGD 30) working part-time in the education sector.

Events & Entertainment

Companies organising events, concerts, and exhibitions often need part-time coordinators, ushers, and ticketing staff. This industry provides dynamic work environments and opportunities to network. 

You can expect to earn an hourly wage of INR 700 (SGD 11.5) working part-time in the events and entertainment sector.

Delivery Services

With the growth in demand for online shopping and food delivery, companies such as GrabFood are hiring part-time delivery riders and drivers. This industry provides flexible schedules and great earning opportunities.

You can expect to earn an hourly wage of INR 900 (SGD 14) working part-time in the delivery sector.

Also Read: Job Opportunities in Singapore for Indians in 2024

Search Tools for Part-Time Jobs in Singapore

Nowadays, you can use many online job portals to find your dream job, and the same goes for employers seeking candidates like you to fill a position. Employers can use various job portals in Singapore to find international or local talents or candidates with specialised skill sets.

One prominent example is JobStreet, Singapore’s largest job portal, facilitating over 3,00,000 monthly applicants. It offers detailed profiles, direct application invitations for employers, branding opportunities, a vast resume database, and effective matching tools. 

Additionally, JobStreet features over 2,30,000 company reviews, which are invaluable for both job seekers like you and employers alike in making informed decisions.

Here are some additional resources to assist you in your search.

1. Leverage Online Job Portals

Online job portals are a great starting point for finding part-time jobs in Singapore. Websites like JobStreet, Indeed, and JobsDB have extensive listings for part-time positions. Use filters to narrow down your search by job type, industry, and location.

2. University Career Services

Many universities in Singapore offer career services that can assist you in finding part-time jobs. These services often provide job listings, resume workshops, and interview preparation sessions. Make sure to utilise the career services department at your university.

3. Network Effectively

Utilise networking as an important tool for job hunting. Attend university events, career fairs, and industry workshops to connect with potential employers. This will also help in expanding your professional circle. Engage with peers, professors, and industry experts who can offer job referrals and recommendations.

4. Social Media Platforms

Social media platforms, mainly LinkedIn and Facebook, are valuable tools for you. Join job groups, follow company pages, and engage with posts related to job openings. LinkedIn, in particular, allows you to connect directly with hiring managers and recruiters.

5. Freelance Platforms

Websites like Upwork and Freelancer offer numerous freelance opportunities that can be done remotely. These platforms are ideal for you if you are looking for flexible, part-time work in areas like writing, graphic design, and programming.

6. Company Websites

Many organisations post job openings directly on their websites. It is essential for you to check the careers section of company websites where you would like to work regularly. This approach allows you to apply directly and possibly increase your chances of getting noticed.

7. Recruitment Agencies

Expand your job search by registering with staffing agencies focused on part-time and temporary work. Agencies like Adecco, Kelly Services, and Recruit Express can connect you with employers looking for part-time staff.

8. Classified Ads

Websites such as Gumtree and Carousell frequently feature classified ads for part-time jobs, making them valuable for discovering local, short-term job opportunities.

9. Volunteer and Internships

Volunteering or taking up internships can sometimes lead to part-time job offers. These positions provide valuable work experience and help you build a professional network.

These job search platforms can effectively help you find and secure part-time jobs in Singapore. Remember to balance your job search with your academic commitments and maintain a positive and proactive approach throughout the process.

Guidelines for Part-Time Jobs in Singapore

When searching for part-time jobs in Singapore, it’s essential to have a good grasp of the guidelines and regulations. The workforce landscape is evolving, with part-time positions now constituting a larger proportion — approximately 10.8% as of 2023. Being familiar with these regulations ensures that you can navigate employment conditions effectively and adhere to legal requirements.

1. Work Hours
   • As an international student, you can work up to 16 hours per week during the academic term and unlimited hours during vacation. Ensure you balance work and study to maintain good academic standing.
     
2. Employment Pass
   • You must have a valid Student Pass issued by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) to work part-time. Ensure your employer is aware of and adheres to this requirement.
     
3. Job Contracts
   • Always have a written contract defining the terms of your employment, including job duties, working hours, and salary. This protects your rights as an employee and ensures clarity. You must notify the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) before starting your part-time job in Singapore.
     
4. Labour Laws
   • Familiarise yourself with Singapore’s labour laws, including minimum wage, overtime pay, and workplace rights. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website is a valuable resource for this information.

Here is a table showcasing the hourly and daily wage for part-time employees as per the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).

Hourly basic Pay	12 x Monthly basic rate of pay———————————–52 x No. of hours worked in a week
The daily basic rate of pay	12 x Monthly basic rate of pay————————————52 x Number of days a part-time employee is required to work in a week

5. Work-Life Balance
   • While part-time jobs can help with finances, it’s crucial to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Prioritise your studies and well-being, and avoid over-committing to work.

Finding part-time jobs in Singapore can greatly enhance your student experience, providing financial support and valuable work experience. 

How to Prepare for an Interview for Part-Time Jobs in Singapore?

Each year, Singapore attracts approximately 3,000 Indian students like you seeking educational opportunities at its schools and universities. With a remarkable annual growth of up to 25%, Singapore has become a favoured destination for Indian students like you pursuing higher education.

Preparing for a part-time job interview in Singapore requires thorough preparation and a clear understanding of the expectations. Here are some effective strategies to help you succeed:

1. Research about the Company

Before your interview, spend time researching the company. Understand its mission, values, products or services, and recent news. Familiarise yourself with the company culture and how your role contributes to its goals. This will help you answer the questions confidently and demonstrate your genuine interest in the company.

2. Understand the Job Role

Review the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements. Highlight the key skills and experiences needed for the role. Be prepared to explain how your background aligns with these requirements and provide examples from your past experiences that showcase your suitability for the job.

3. Practice Common Interview Questions

Always prepare the basic interview questions. Some of the common interview questions are listed below.

• Can you tell me about yourself?
• Why do you want this job?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• Can you describe a challenging situation and how you handled it?
• How do you manage your time and priorities?

Practise your responses to ensure they are crisp and relevant. Structure your answers effectively using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

4. Dress Appropriately

Choose attire that is appropriate for the company’s culture. For most part-time job interviews, business casual is a safe choice. Ensure your clothes are clean, well-fitted, and professional. Pay attention to grooming and hygiene as well.

5. Bring Necessary Documents

Prepare a folder with multiple copies of your resume, a list of references, and any other documents that might be relevant, such as certifications or portfolios. Having these documents on hand shows that you are organised and prepared.

6. Practise Good Body Language

Your body language can significantly impact the interviewer’s perception of you. Try maintaining eye contact, offer a firm handshake, and sit straight. Avoid fidgeting or crossing your arms, as these can be signs of nervousness or defensiveness.

7. Prepare Questions for the Interviewer

Having questions ready for the interviewer shows your interest in the role and the company. You might ask about:

• The team you will be working with.
• Opportunities for training and development.
• Typical challenges faced in the role.
• The company’s plans and growth.

8. Be Punctual

Try to reach the interview venue at least 10-15 minutes before the scheduled time. Being punctual shows your reliability and respect for the interviewer’s time. If the interview is virtual, test your technology in advance to ensure a smooth connection.

9. Follow-Up After the Interview

Send a thank-you email within 24 hours of your interview, expressing your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterating your interest in the role. This leaves a positive impression and keeps you at the top of your mind.

Additional Tips:

• Confidence and Positivity: Employers appreciate candidates who are enthusiastic and optimistic.
• Adaptability: Highlight your ability to adapt and learn quickly, especially if you are applying for a role that requires new skills.
• Real-Life Examples: Use specific examples, such as any relevant project you have worked on or any other example from your previous experiences, to illustrate your skills and achievements.

By following these strategies, you will be well-prepared to make a strong impression during your part-time job interview in Singapore.

Singapore Study Visa 

The student visa in Singapore is known as a ‘Student Pass’. It is mandatory to obtain it if you plan to study at an Institute of Higher Learning (IHL) in Singapore for more than 30 days. 

You are required to submit your applications to ICA online. This is the most common visa for full-time international students enrolled in a registered institution in Singapore. It serves as your official authorisation to pursue your studies and offers.

Following are the key details for the study visa. 

Feature	Details
Duration of Student Pass for Undergraduate Courses	Four years
Duration of Student Pass for Post-graduate Courses	1 to 2 or specific years (as per program)
Working Hour Limit	16 hours/week
Student Visa Application Fee	INR 3.7k (SGD 59.5)
Processing Time	1 week
English Proficiency Test	IELTS 6.0 and 7.0 TOEFL (iBT 90)PTE (55)

Steps to Apply for your Singapore Study Visa

Wondering how to apply for a student visa? Worry not. Here are the steps required. 

• Register online and fill out the “Campus France form”
• Next, choose the Campus France office in your home country and email the file number for verification of the entries
• Once approved, request an appointment with the Campus France Education advisor for the academic interview for which you’ll have to appear in person 
• As a next step, you may request an appointment for the consular interview at the French Consulate for a date after the academic interview

To Conclude

As you consider starting your academic journey in Singapore, part-time jobs in Singapore can serve as pivotal opportunities for gaining invaluable work experience. Part-time jobs provide financial support and enrich your learning beyond the classroom. With most international students engaging in part-time work, you’ll join a lively community that values academic excellence and practical skills.

Exploring part-time jobs in Singapore immerses you in the local culture and economy while enhancing your professional network. You can expect to earn an hourly wage between INR 700 to INR 1k (SGD 11 to SGD 16), based on the industry you choose..

Moreover, part-time work offers insights into Singapore’s dynamic industries, fostering a deeper understanding of global markets and enhancing your CV with diverse skills. By balancing academic pursuits with part-time work, you support your educational expenses and develop resilience and adaptability in a multicultural environment.

In conclusion, part-time jobs in Singapore are integral to your educational journey, offering opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Embrace these experiences to cultivate a well-rounded skill set and pave the way for future career success in a globally competitive landscape!

Frequently Asked Questions