- Non-PMET roles may not require higher-level skills from tertiary education
- Upskilling initiatives are being prioritised for workers in such jobs to ensure progress for everyone
- Raising salaries for non-PMET and lower-wage workers is also in progress
If you’re confused by all the classifications and acronyms, here’s a quick breakdown.
PMETs refer to the category of workers in roles such as Professionals, Managers, Executives and Technicians.
Non-PMETs, or non-executive roles, refer to roles that may not need higher-level skills (which can be acquired through tertiary education) in industries such as accommodation & food services, administrative & support services and wholesale & retail.
In 2019, Singapore’s workforce crossed a tipping point, with the majority of local workers (56%) in roles defined as PMETs, compared to 47% a decade earlier.
However, that doesn’t mean that non-executive roles aren’t a key driver in the Singapore economy and workforce!
Looking for a new job? Explore over 100,000 job postings now available on MyCareersFuture!
Non-PMET jobs matter to Singapore
Non-PMET workers are a key segment that could benefit from a new lifelong learning system to ensure progress for everyone. The Singapore government has identified non-PMET workers as more at risk of stagnating in their career than PMET workers.
That’s why equal opportunities for every segment of the workforce to continue learning and upskilling is important.
At the same time, the Singapore government has also been looking at ensuring that non-executive and lower-wage workers are rewarded with wage increases or variable payments that are fair and sustainable. This aims to address concerns about inflation and the rising costs of living.
As such, in November 2022, the Singapore Government accepted the recent National Wages Council (NWC) Guidelines, which recommended wage growth for lower-wage workers and factors in business sustainability, to help efforts in narrowing any income gaps.
These efforts will bring 56,000 full-time lower-wage workers under the coverage of Progressive Wages from March 2023.
The Government will also continue to support employers in uplifting lower-wage workers through the 5-year Progressive Wage Credit Scheme, which co-funds eligible lower-wage worker wage increases.
What non-PMET roles are available in Singapore, and what is their salary range?
According to a Ministry of Manpower report released in 2022, for non-executive job openings, the rise of e-commerce has led to increased demand for drivers of lorries, vans and light goods vehicles, the MOM report revealed.
Salary ranges for in-demand positions include construction labourers, sales assistants, cleaners, and security guards, as seen below.
Top 10 Non-PMET Job Vacancies
| Rank | Job Role | Salary Range |
| 1 | Construction Labourer | $800-1,600 |
| 2 | Shop Sales Assistant | $1,400-1,838 |
| 3 | Cleaner | $1,400-1,700 |
| 4 | Receptionist, Customer Service and Information Clerk | $1,900-2,500 |
| 5 | Waiter | $1,700-2,200 |
| 6 | Security Guard | $2,200-2,600 |
| 7 | General Office Clerk | $2,000-2,762 |
| 8 | Heavy Truck and Lorry Driver | $2,300-3,000 |
| 9 | Electrical and Electronic Equipment Assembler | $1,200-1,800 |
| 10 | Kitchen Assistant | $1,700-2,400 |
Want to learn more about non-PMET roles and what they entail? Read on below!
What is the Most Important Skill of a Receptionist?
Essential Skills for the Hospitality Industry
Hospitality Industry Trends: What You Need to Know When Starting Out
Interesting Careers to Explore in Singapore’s Hospitality Industry
Why a Career in Supply Chain is More Fulfilling Than You Think
7 Essential Skills to Fly High as a Cabin Crew
F&B Industry: Why Now is the Right Time to Make the Switch
What Digital Skills Do You Need for the F&B Sector in Singapore Today?
Self-Made Success: After His Fashion Biz Folded, He Turned to Cooking
Cooking Up a Winning Career: 7 Reasons Why Being a Chef Could Be the Right Fit for You
Thinking of a Career in Singapore’s Hospitality and F&B Industry? Here’s What Roles Are Available
