Have you always dreamt of working in a job that gives you a sense of purpose? A job that allows you to make a positive impact on society, but still get paid for it (let’s be real here, you still need money to pay for that mortgage).
If this is what you’re thinking, perhaps a career in the sustainability sector could be the right fit for you!
The sustainability sector is poised for strong growth over the next decade, and now’s the right time to make that career move.
Still on the fence? We present five reasons why you should seriously consider this sector.
Five reasons why you should consider a career in the sustainability sector
1. You’re doing your part to save our planet
When opting for a career in sustainability or the environmental sector, you can be sure you’re making a positive impact on the world.
Not only will you make a significant and positive difference in tackling climate change, but you’ll also pave the way for a better, more sustainable way of life – helping people now and in the future.
Working in the sustainability sector automatically places you as an active contributor to the Singapore Green Plan 2030, which aims to galvanise a pan-national movement and advance Singapore’s national agenda on sustainable development.
A nationwide movement, the Plan seeks to advance Singapore’s national agenda on sustainable development. It features five key pillars:
- City in Nature: Create a green, liveable and sustainable home for Singaporeans.
- Sustainable Living: Reduce carbon emissions, keep the environment clean and save resources and energy as a way of life in Singapore.
- Energy Reset: Use cleaner energy and increase energy efficiency to reduce Singapore’s carbon footprint.
- Green Economy: Seek green growth opportunities to create new jobs, transform Singapore’s industries and harness sustainability as a competitive advantage.
- Resilient Future: Build up Singapore’s climate resilience and enhance its food security.
The transition to a decarbonised economy is also a driver of economic growth with the potential to create millions of jobs. In short, green jobs are good for people, the environment and the economy.
2. You’re saving the planet and getting paid for it
It goes without saying that despite your noble intentions of making a positive impact in your job, salary is still an important consideration. If you assumed that sustainable jobs do not come with decent salaries, you may be in for a surprise.
Here are some sustainable jobs and their salary range listed on the MyCareersFuture portal:
| Job | Salary Range |
| Ecologist | $5,000 to $7,000 |
| Environmental Engineer | $4,000 to $8,000 |
| Environmental Health and Safety Officer | $3,500 to $5,000 |
| Landscape Architect | $2,400 to $5,800 |
| Renewable Energy Engineer | $4,000 to $6,000 |
| Research Scientist | $4,000 to $8,000 |
| Sustainability Engineer | $4,000 to $7,000 |
| Sustainability Executive | $3,500 to $5,500 |
| Sustainability Manager | $5,000 to $10,000 |
| Urban Planner | $3,500 to $8,500 |
Read More: 5 Sustainability Development Career Paths to Consider
3. You’ll find a greater purpose in your work
If you’re wondering whether you’re odd for wanting more out of a job, rest assured that you’re not. Recent employment trends such as the Great Resignation and the Great Reshuffle have proven that on a global scale, workers want more than just good pay or excellent prospects in a job.
Singapore workers are no exception to this.
In a recent survey by the National University of Singapore’s Institute of Policy Studies, close to half of the respondents are willing to accept less pay for work that contributes to something more important or meaningful.
So, if you’re looking for a job that gives a greater sense of fulfilment or meaning, this brings us to the next point.
4. You don’t have to learn everything from scratch
The common misconception about sustainable jobs is that you must get your hands dirty doing cleaning and recycling work. This is not true.
The sustainability sector is wide-ranging, and so are the types of jobs available, ranging from sustainability consultant to landscape architect, so finding your place in this imperative industry is hugely rewarding.
For mid-career switchers, having transferable skills would put you at an advantage. For example, if you’re a product designer in the manufacturing sector, your knowledge and experience in packaging design would be invaluable in working with environmentally friendly materials.
Likewise, if you’re an engineer from the maritime sector, your skills may be sought after in sustainable companies dealing with water resources management.
Read More: Breaking New Grounds: Singapore’s Very Own Captain Planets
5. You can choose from a myriad of sustainable jobs available in the sector
The Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment estimated that the sustainability sector — including the agritech and waste management industries — is expected to add 55,000 new and upgraded jobs.
The sustainability sector in Singapore is projected to continue growing in the coming years, driven by the country’s commitment to sustainability and the growing demand for sustainable solutions in the region.
Driving the growth of Singapore’s sustainability sector is the increasing awareness and demand for sustainable solutions among consumers and businesses. This trend has led to new companies and start-ups that offer sustainable alternatives to traditional products and services.
If you’re thinking of making a mid-career switch to the sustainability sector…
Jobseekers or mid-career switchers keen on joining the sustainability sector can up their chances of landing a job by upskilling themselves. WSG offers a Career Conversion Programme (CCP) for Sustainability Professionals.
As a CCP participant, you will undergo structured On-the-Job Training (OJT) at a sustainable company. Once you complete the CCP, you will be equipped with the necessary competencies and skills to take on sustainability-related job roles within the company.
If you need professional advice on navigating your career journey to the sustainability sector, register here to speak to a career coach!
