Singapore’s government sector is renowned for offering competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and career stability. In 2025, many government roles provide lucrative compensation packages, especially for senior and specialized positions. This article provides an in-depth salary breakdown of the top paying government jobs in Singapore. It also explains the requirements, job responsibilities, and career prospects to help job seekers make informed decisions.
Why Choose High Paying Government Jobs in Singapore?
High paying government jobs in Singapore offer several benefits beyond just salary:
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Financial Stability: Attractive pay ensures a secure financial future.
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Comprehensive Benefits: Includes healthcare, pension, bonuses, and leave entitlements.
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Career Progression: Clear promotion paths and opportunities for skill development.
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Work-Life Balance: Many roles maintain regular hours and leave policies.
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Prestige and Impact: Serving the public sector enhances societal contribution and professional respect.
This makes high paying government jobs desirable for professionals seeking long-term careers with financial and personal rewards.
Summary Table: Top Paying Government Jobs in Singapore 2025
| Rank | Job Title | Average Monthly Salary (SGD) | Key Requirements | Primary Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Permanent Secretary | SGD 20,000 – SGD 30,000 | Extensive experience, leadership | Lead ministries, policy decisions |
| 2 | Director-General | SGD 15,000 – SGD 25,000 | Senior management experience | Manage large government agencies |
| 3 | Senior Principal Engineer | SGD 12,000 – SGD 20,000 | Engineering degree, certifications | Lead technical projects and teams |
| 4 | Chief Financial Officer (CFO) | SGD 14,000 – SGD 18,000 | Finance/accounting degree, CPA/CA | Oversee government financial management |
| 5 | Diplomatic Head | SGD 13,000 – SGD 19,000 | Degree in international relations | Manage diplomatic missions abroad |
| 6 | Senior Policy Advisor | SGD 10,000 – SGD 15,000 | Degree in policy/public administration | Advise on government policies |
| 7 | IT Director | SGD 12,000 – SGD 18,000 | IT degree, professional certifications | Lead government IT strategy and security |
| 8 | Legal Counsel | SGD 10,000 – SGD 16,000 | Law degree, admission to bar | Provide legal advice to government |
| 9 | Senior Healthcare Administrator | SGD 9,000 – SGD 14,000 | Degree in healthcare/public admin | Manage public health programs |
| 10 | Enforcement Chief | SGD 8,000 – SGD 13,000 | Relevant degree and experience | Lead enforcement and compliance teams |
1. Permanent Secretary
Role Overview
Permanent Secretaries are the highest-ranking civil servants in government ministries. They provide leadership, coordinate policy implementation, and serve as the key link between ministers and civil service.
Salary Breakdown
Permanent Secretaries earn between SGD 20,000 and SGD 30,000 monthly. Salary depends on experience, ministry size, and responsibilities.
Key Requirements
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Extensive experience in government or relevant sectors
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Proven leadership and management skills
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Strong strategic thinking and policy knowledge
Responsibilities
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Leading ministry operations
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Shaping national policies
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Advising ministers and stakeholders
2. Director-General
Job Description
Directors-General head large government agencies or departments. They oversee operations, manage resources, and ensure agency goals are met efficiently.
Salary Range
Between SGD 15,000 and SGD 25,000 per month.
Qualifications
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Senior management experience in public or private sectors
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Strong leadership and organizational skills
Duties
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Strategic planning and execution
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Resource management
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Reporting to ministry and government officials
3. Senior Principal Engineer
What They Do
Senior Principal Engineers lead complex engineering projects within public infrastructure, urban planning, or technology departments.
Salary
Ranges from SGD 12,000 to SGD 20,000 monthly.
Requirements
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Bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering
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Professional certifications (e.g., PE) preferred
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Extensive project management experience
Responsibilities
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Oversee design and implementation of projects
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Ensure safety and quality standards
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Manage engineering teams
4. Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Role Explained
CFOs manage the financial health of government agencies. They oversee budgeting, accounting, and financial planning.
Salary Range
Typically SGD 14,000 to SGD 18,000 per month.
Requirements
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Degree in finance, accounting, or related field
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Professional accounting qualifications (CPA, CA)
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Experience in financial management
Tasks
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Develop financial strategies
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Monitor budgets and expenditures
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Ensure compliance with financial regulations
5. Diplomatic Head
Job Overview
Diplomatic Heads lead Singapore’s foreign missions such as embassies or consulates. They represent Singapore’s interests abroad.
Salary
Between SGD 13,000 and SGD 19,000 monthly.
Qualifications
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Degree in international relations, law, or related fields
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Experience in foreign service or diplomacy
Responsibilities
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Manage diplomatic staff and operations
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Negotiate international agreements
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Promote Singapore’s economic and cultural ties
6. Senior Policy Advisor
What They Do
Senior Policy Advisors provide expert advice on policy formulation and government strategies.
Salary Range
Earn between SGD 10,000 and SGD 15,000 monthly.
Requirements
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Degree in public administration, economics, or social sciences
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Strong analytical and communication skills
Duties
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Conduct policy research
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Prepare briefing materials
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Advise ministers and senior officials
7. IT Director
Role Description
IT Directors oversee the government’s information technology systems, cybersecurity, and digital transformation projects.
Salary
Ranges from SGD 12,000 to SGD 18,000 monthly.
Requirements
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Degree in IT, computer science, or related field
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Professional certifications like CISSP, PMP
Responsibilities
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Develop IT strategy
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Manage cybersecurity policies
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Lead digital innovation initiatives
8. Legal Counsel
What They Do
Legal Counsels provide legal advice and support to government agencies on various matters including legislation and contracts.
Salary
Between SGD 10,000 and SGD 16,000 per month.
Requirements
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Law degree
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Admission to Singapore Bar
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Experience in public or corporate law
Key Tasks
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Draft and review contracts
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Provide legal opinions
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Represent government in legal matters
9. Senior Healthcare Administrator
Role Explained
These administrators manage public healthcare programs, hospitals, and policy implementation in health sectors.
Salary Range
Typically SGD 9,000 to SGD 14,000 monthly.
Qualifications
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Degree in healthcare administration, public health, or related field
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Experience managing healthcare services
Responsibilities
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Oversee healthcare delivery
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Coordinate with medical staff and government bodies
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Plan health policies and budgets
10. Enforcement Chief
What They Do
Enforcement Chiefs lead teams that enforce laws and regulations in areas like public safety, environment, or transportation.
Salary
Between SGD 8,000 and SGD 13,000 per month.
Requirements
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Relevant degree and leadership experience
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Knowledge of enforcement procedures
Duties
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Manage enforcement operations
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Supervise teams and investigations
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Ensure regulatory compliance
How to Secure a Top Paying Government Job in Singapore
1. Identify Your Target Role
Focus on roles that fit your education, skills, and career interests.
2. Meet the Qualifications
Obtain necessary degrees, certifications, and experience.
3. Prepare for Civil Service Exams and Interviews
Study official materials, attend preparatory courses, and develop strong interview skills.
4. Apply Through Official Channels
Use government portals such as the Public Service Division’s website for application submission.
5. Engage in Continuous Learning
Upskill regularly to meet evolving job requirements and improve promotion chances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which government jobs in Singapore pay the highest?
Permanent Secretaries and Directors-General are among the top earners, with monthly salaries up to SGD 30,000.
2. Do government jobs offer bonuses?
Yes, many government employees receive annual bonuses and performance incentives.
3. Is experience necessary to enter high paying government roles?
Yes, senior positions require significant professional experience.
4. Can fresh graduates get government jobs with high salaries?
Entry-level government jobs generally pay less, but they offer clear career progression.
5. Are government jobs in Singapore competitive?
Very competitive. Candidates need strong qualifications and preparation.
6. What benefits come with government jobs besides salary?
Benefits include healthcare, pension schemes, paid leave, and training opportunities.
7. How often do government salaries get reviewed?
Salaries are periodically reviewed to stay competitive and fair.
8. Can foreigners apply for these government jobs?
Most government jobs require Singapore citizenship.
Conclusion: Aim High with Singapore’s Top Paying Government Jobs
Singapore offers some of the most rewarding government careers globally. The top paying government jobs provide excellent salaries, benefits, and career growth opportunities. Whether you are a professional aiming for senior leadership or a specialist in your field, the public sector has opportunities to match your aspirations. Focus on developing the right qualifications, gaining experience, and preparing thoroughly to succeed in Singapore’s competitive government job market.