Singapore’s job market demonstrated resilience in the second quarter of 2026, with total employment rising by 10,700, according to the Ministry of Manpower’s Labour Market Advance Release. This marks an increase from the 9,400 jobs added in the first quarter. Jobstreet by SEEK’s data reveals a 9.9% quarter-on-quarter rise in job applications, despite a 2.7% decline in job postings.
The hiring outlook remains positive, with the percentage of firms planning to hire increasing from 40.6% in May to 43.9% in June. This optimism persists despite global economic uncertainties and the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence (AI). Employers are increasingly seeking candidates with domain expertise and digital literacy to adapt to evolving job roles. Notably, 84% of AI-related job opportunities are for mid- to senior-level professionals, leaving only 16% for entry-level positions.
Sector growth was notably strong in essential and public services, particularly in Transportation & Storage, Health & Social Services, and Public Administration & Education. Jobstreet’s platform data supports this trend, showing significant growth in job postings in Government/Defence (49%), Semiconductor (20%), and Transportation/Logistics (9%).
As a new wave of graduates enters the workforce, both job seekers and employers must adapt to a skills-based hiring landscape. Candidates who can showcase practical experience and the ability to work with emerging technologies like AI will be well-positioned to succeed, whether they are new graduates or professionals seeking a career change.
