The social service sector in Singapore is witnessing a surge in job opportunities, owing to the nation’s ageing population and the growing needs of vulnerable groups. Moreover, the National Council of Social Service (NCSS) has played a crucial role in dispelling misconceptions surrounding careers in this sector, leading to a shift in mindset.
Today, jobs in the social service sector are widely recognised as rewarding and fulfilling career choices. Notably, mid-career switchers, who seek purposeful work and the chance to make a positive impact on society, form a significant portion of those joining the sector.
In fact, since 2016, NCSS has witnessed a remarkable 19 percent increase in mid-career workers transitioning into the sector.
If you find yourself contemplating a career change, it’s time to explore the myriad opportunities the social service sector has to offer!
What are the job opportunities in Singapore’s social service sector?
The answer to this question is plenty! The social service sector in Singapore offers a plethora of job opportunities to meet the needs of the ageing population and vulnerable groups. Contrary to popular belief, the industry is not limited to social workers alone. NCSS’s spokesperson shared with Workipedia by MyCareersFuture:
“While the social service sector may not be as large as some other industries, it is an important and rewarding field that offers a variety of career options.”
Here are some examples of job roles in the sector that we’ve compiled for your info:
| Role | Salary Range |
| Administrative Executive | $2,200 to $4,000 |
| Staff Nurse | $2,750 to $4,000 |
| Research Fellow | $3,000 to $4,500 |
| IT Support Engineer | $3,000 to $4,800 |
| Social Worker | $3,790 to $5,340 |
| Occupational Therapist | $4,000 to $6,500 |
| Marketing Manager | $4,500 to $7,000 |
| Psychologist | $4,580 to $5,730 |
| Centre Manager | $7,170 to $8,470 |
| Lead Social Worker | $7,460 to $9,330 |
Speaking to Workipedia by MyCareersFuture, spokesperson for AWWA Family Service Centre, a community-based agency that provides help and support to individuals and families in need, shared:
“Anyone looking for a fulfilling professional career should take a leap of faith and join the social service sector. Working in social services provides opportunities to maximise the impact of skills and passion.”
Jobseekers, check out jobs in AWWA here!
In addition, working in the social service sector doesn’t necessarily require you to be on the frontline, which includes working directly with clients and taking on casework. You can also contribute to the overall good of society by plying your skills in a support role.
Speaking to Workipedia by MyCareersFuture, Wilson Mack, clinical director of family services under Thye Hwa Kwan Moral Charities, a charitable organisation that provides help and support to families in need, shared:
“While the typical job roles are in direct practice (working with clients), the sector also looks for individuals who can perform indirect roles such as management staff, marketers and content developers.”
Jobseekers, check out jobs in Thye Hwa Kwan Moral Charities here!
With over 30 diverse job roles across nine broad career fields, many options exist. Whether you join the sector as a marketer or a social worker, you’re automatically part of the group or tribe as NCSS calls it. Cool stuff.
Jobseekers, apply for jobs in social service here!
Where can I get help to make an industry switch to the social service sector?
If you’re keen to join the social sector as a social worker, you need the right qualifications. But if you don’t, fret not! Register for the WSG’s Career Conversion Programme for Social Workers, which provides you with the opportunity to take up a diploma or degree in social work with on-the-job Training.
Read More: How and Why This Creative Director Became a Social Worker
Individuals who wish to join or progress within the Social Service sector can use the Skills Framework (SFw) for Social Service to assess their career interests, identify relevant training programmes to upgrade their skills and prepare for the desired job roles.
If you need professional advice on navigating your career journey to the sustainability sector, register here to speak to a career coach!
