Working In Singapore

A Profile On What To Expect When Working In Singapore

The following information may be of help in deciding whether you would be interested in a quantity surveying, engineering or project management job based in Singapore.

Currency

The currency used in Singapore is the Singapore Dollar, one of the most traded currencies in the world.

Political / Religious Standpoint

Singapore has a very diverse population with the main practices religions being Buddhism and Christianity.

A Westminster parliamentary Government runs Singapore, with constituencies in a democracy, headed by members of parliament and a President. Singapore is consistently rated one of the least corrupt countries in the world, although the law is loosely based on English Common law, Singapore has its own set of laws which have harsh penalties. Making it one of the safest countries in the world, although some of the laws may seem very dated, it’s worth noting that Homosexuality is still considered illegal.

Economy

Singapore is home to one of the fifth biggest ports in the world and has the fourth biggest financial centre. It also has huge export, refinery and manufacturing sectors including some of the worlds largest companies. Singapore has one of the top three oil refineries and is the largest oil rig producer in the world. It is also a major hub for ship repairs.

Culture and Leisure

Singapore is exceptionally safe and is also extremely clean, although during the summer months can suffer from pollution and smog from surrounding countries. Singapore has a very diverse population, 75% of the population are Chinese and although English is the national language, spoken languages include Malay, Mandarin and Tamil.

Singapore is very accessible with a great MRT service that is relatively cheap, in contrast to this it can be pricey to own and use a car, but leasing options are available.

As Singapore is situated on the equatorial line its weather tends to remain the same throughout the year. It’s hot, humid and experiences patches of moderate to heavy rainfall. This weather provides the city with stunning expanses of greenery.

Singapore has a huge social network with a wide variety of restaurants, bars and clubs. Sports and the arts are both hugely popular, as is food. You can find a great selection of different cuisines, with English, Thai and Chinese available in both traditional and hybrid forms.

Singapore has a high cost of living as everything is imported, this is reflected in everything from groceries to eating out and is very apparent in the prices of alcohol. But balancing this out Singapore has one of the lowest income taxes in the world, and you will see promotions such as ‘happy hour’ and ‘one for one’ – which is essentially buy one get one free.

Singapore has high life expectancy and a low infant mortality rate, the standard of healthcare in Singapore is very good, although it is also very expensive, taking out an insurance policy with good coverage can combat this.

Accommodation and Education

There are a huge number of different educational establishments available including both private schools and international schools, although the prices can differ hugely depending on location and facilities. The main taught language is English however there is also a test in, “Mother Tongue” although this can be dropped at a later stage.

Accommodation in Singapore is expensive but tends to be within a well-maintained apartment block containing a pool and gym. Further away from the main city centre tends to be cheaper, but is likely to be just a 15 – 20 MRT ride away. Very expensive areas are those that have a high number of expats currently residing there for example, Orchard Road and River Valley are both higher rent areas.

Visa Requirements

To visit Singapore as a British Citizen for 30 days or less you don’t need a visa, however if you are planning a longer trip, or are looking to work or set-up a business within Singapore you will need a visa before arrival.

Search Jobs in Singapore

Newsletter

Get construction industry news relating to the UK, Canada, Asia, the Middle East and other worldwide locations.

Subscribe

Testimonial

“Richard from Maxim Recruitment first reached out to me whilst I was in UK with a great job opportunity in Hong Kong. Prior to the interview, Richard provided good insight about the company and condition of the industry and reassured me the role was a great fit. He matched each of the key skills against the JD which captured my interest. Having been offered the position, Richard negotiated the package on my behalf and secured a 12% uplift to the original offer to ensure my acceptance. I experienced very professional and efficient execution of their services and I have no hesitation in working with Richard and Maxim Recruitment should the opportunity arise in the future.”

A.J. | Associate Director Quality Assurance | December 2023

Send Us Your CV

Need help finding the ideal job? Want to save time when searching?

Let us find your next job.

Send Us Your CV

Register for Job Alerts

Maxim Insights

Infrastructure Projects to Watch in Canada, the UK and Dubai

Here we summarise some of the most interesting new and recently awarded civil engineering, aviation and rail infrastructure projects that are happening in 2025 in Toronto and Vancouver in Canada, in the UK and in Dubai. …

Read more »

What do Candidates and Employers Really Think of Maxim Recruitment?

The recurring themes in our testimonials are clear — personalised service, genuine care, and expert knowledge. Maxim Recruitment has built a reputation for being approachable, professional, and deeply committed to making the right match for both candidates and employers.…

Read more »

Increasing Representation of Female Construction Expert Witnesses

Last International Women’s Day, I wrote an article acknowledging the reality that I had recruited far fewer women in this industry than men. However, I am pleased to say that over the past year, I have successfully placed more women in construction disputes roles, particularly those entering the industry for the first time.…

Read more »

Helping You Find the Perfect Fit

Specialising in the construction, engineering, and property sectors in the UK, Canada, Middle East and Asia, we've carved out a niche of focusing on quality and building strong, lasting relationships with leading professionals and companies. Here’s how we can be of help to you.…

Read more »

A Healthy Body and Clear Mind All Year Round

Maintaining physical and mental wellbeing is essential not only for personal health but also for professional success. Below are practical tips to help keep your body and mind in top shape, no matter your role or industry.…

Read more »

Industry News

Pit collapse leads to fines

A construction company and its director have been fined after a man was injured during excavation work in West Sussex.

Source: The Construction Index Last updated: 1 April, 07:21

Read more »

Government promises ‘new era’ for UK infrastructure delivery

Today sees the creation of the National Infrastructure & Service Transformation Authority.

Source: The Construction Index Last updated: 1 April, 07:13

Read more »

Humphrey takes the helm at Waterman

Neil Humphrey has been appointed chief executive of consulting engineer Waterman, as of 1st April 2025.

Source: The Construction Index Last updated: 1 April, 06:23

Read more »

New boss for TPA

TPA, a leading supplier of temporary roadways and matting, has a new managing director.

Source: The Construction Index Last updated: 1 April, 06:17

Read more »

Homes England buys Nottingham Broad Marsh site 

Homes England has taken over a major urban regeneration project from Nottingham City Council. 

Source: The Construction Index Last updated: 1 April, 06:11

Read more »