Singapore’s built environment sector presents fresh graduates with a myriad of fascinating career paths that enable them to play a crucial role in the country’s future. Finding your place in the industry ensures you help deliver eco-conscious solutions that address fundamental issues around climate change and urbanism.
Through innovative technologies and forward-thinking practices, your work will make a tangible difference in creating a better and more liveable world. Here, we look at the latest trends shaping Singapore’s built environment and how you can get involved with these exciting career paths.
The Latest Built Environment Trends
Singapore has long operated at the forefront of the built environment sector due to the region’s unique geographic limitations. As every square metre of land matters, the following trends will help take the nation’s built environment to the next level in the coming years and beyond.
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1. Green development
Green buildings have been a major focus in Singapore since 2006, with the launch of the government’s Green Building Masterplan encouraging developers to adopt sustainable practices. As these practices have become widespread, the renewed 80-80-80 in 2030 concept aims to green 80% of buildings, promote low energy standards and achieve 80% energy efficiency in best-in-class green buildings.
2. Smart technology
As Singapore works to become a global leader in smart technology, the built environment sector is ripe for cutting-edge advancements. For example, SP Digital’s GET platform enables property managers to monitor building systems, including energy distribution, electric car charging and sustainability, using AI and IoT via a single platform.
3. Inclusive design
Finding ways to increase inclusivity is also a primary concern for the modern built environment industry. As over 20% of the population will be 65 and older by 2030, implementing policies that provide seamless access to services like public transport is essential. The Building and Construction Authority’s Universal Design index presents a straightforward framework for determining accessibility.
Exciting career paths for built environment graduates
Looking to establish a career in the built environment industry? The following career paths present graduates with exciting opportunities that foster their talents and see them progress through the ranks to achieve their career goals.
1. Architecture
Start your journey in architecture by becoming an architectural assistant. This entry-level role sees graduates draft initial building designs, research regulations and inspect sites. Then, as you get promoted to project architect, you’ll work closely with clients, take on team-leading responsibilities and manage the construction process. Eventually, you’ll reach the principal level, where you’ll lead the organisation’s strategic vision.
2. Urban Planning
Gaining a permanent position in urban planning requires graduates to have experience under their belt, such as internships and placements where they learn the basics. Once you earn a full-time spot, you’ll help senior planners analyse data and produce reports for clients. If you stick with urban planning to become a director, you’ll work directly with elected officials to plan and execute nuanced urban projects and programmes.
3. Civil Engineering and Design
The career paths of a civil engineer are incredibly diverse. The most entry-level position is the assistant civil engineer role, where you’ll prepare plans, troubleshoot problems and determine costs. As a fully-fledged civil engineer, you’ll oversee the construction process and coordinate with contractors and stakeholders. In senior roles, you’ll assist with business development and client relations while offering technical leadership.
4. Facilities Management
Facilities management professionals ensure buildings, equipment and infrastructure perform to the highest standards. Junior workers conduct routine repairs, complete service requests, work alongside contractors and follow health and safety protocols. Senior facilities managers will oversee developments with more complex needs, plus manage teams of facilities management staff to achieve the company’s goals.
5. Project Management
Project managers require exceptional organisational and communication skills. As an entry-level project coordinator, you’ll assist senior colleagues with planning, scheduling and communication. Qualified project managers oversee construction projects from planning to completion, supervising budgets and resources to deliver the ideal client outcomes. Senior project managers may direct multiple complex projects while maintaining oversight of how their team accomplishes each job.
