Simple Jobs In Singapore For International Workers
Do you work abroad and aspire to get a good working and stable job in the Lion City? The strong economy of Singapore is ever on the hunt to recruit talent which is committed especially in fields that can enhance its blistering growth. Most people think that to work in Singapore one must have a high level degree, however, the fact is that there are many jobs in Singapore that are vital to the foreign workers and they are not very complicated, many of them are termed as Basic-Skilled or Semi-Skilled positions.
So What do we mean by a simple job in Singapore as a foreigner?
The most simple roles that foreign workers can undertake in the context of immigration structure of Singapore lie within the Work Permit (WP) program. These are fundamental jobs, which do not need a university degree, but just the general aptitude and are under certain industry quotas and regulations.
Most foreign workers in Singapore have their types of passes classified by the Singapore government into three major categories of passes:
- Work Permit (WP): In certain sectors (Construction, Manufacturing, Marine Shipyard, Process, Services) semi-skilled migrant workers of approved source countries are allowed to work in the country. The minimum salary requirement on the WP is not obligatory meaning that they are very accessible.
- S Pass: To mid-skilled technical employees and associate professionals. Has required minimum qualifying pay (S$3300 since September 2025) and certain technical qualifications.
- Employment Pass (EP): Managerial, executive, or specialised work, with a significantly higher pay level (S$5,600+ since Jan 2025).
The most simple roles would be found in the category of Work Permit, which worries those who want to find the simplest working positions.
Top 5 Strauss Job Roles under the Work Permit (WP) Scheme
In a number of major industries there is a strong demand of Basic-Skilled Workers. The most widespread and the available Work Permit (WP) jobs are the following:
Manufacturing and Production Roles
Singapore is an expansive manufacturing sector that is in constant demand of labor. These are Factory Worker and Production Operator positions which are crucial to the electronics, chemical and precision engineering industries.
- Examples of the job title include Production Operator, General Worker, Packer / Picker, Assembler.
- Important Duties: Machine operation, quality control, packing, and distributing.
- Industry: Manufacturing (MOM Quota).
Construction and Infrastructure Labour.
The construction industry is the biggest provider of migrant labour as it is labour intensive. These are physically tedious jobs but important to continued development of Singapore.
- Job Titles: Construction Laborer, General Labour, Mover, Pipe Fitter, Scaffolder.
- Major duties: Preparation of the sites, material handling, supporting the tradesmen.
- Sector: Construction (High demand, however; the employer must post a Security Bond and Quota).
Food and Beverage (F&B) Service Roles
Since the times of hawker centres to restaurants, the F&B industry has been dependent on the Foreign Workers to do the basic kitchen and back-of-house tasks.
- Examples of the jobs include kitchen crew, food service helper, dish washer and food processing worker.
- Major Roles: Preparation of meals, cleaning, food handling, and hygiene.
- Industry: Services (F&B restaurants that have SFA licences).
Domestic and Cleaning Services
The jobs provide regular work throughout the island, keeping the commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and hotels clean. They are also one of the most available jobs that need little experience.
- Examples of the Job Cleaner, Industrial Cleaner, Housekeeping Assistant, Laundry Assistant.
- Important Role: upholding standards of cleanliness and sanitisation.
- Sector: Services.
Warehouse and Logistics Support
Logistics position is never vacant with Singapore being an international trade centre. They are employment opportunities located at ports or industrial parks.
- Examples of the job Warehouse Assistant, Storeman, Packer / Picker (in the case of logistics), Delivery Workers.
- The most important duties include: management of inventory, loading/unloading of goods and fulfilment of orders.
- Sector: Manufacturing/Logistics.
FAQs
Can I apply for a Work Permit job directly from my home country?
Yes, actually, your employer or foreigner job agency that is appointed to be your representative must seek the work permit on behalf of you whilst still abroad (exempted are Malaysian citizens and workers already in Singapore under other passes).
How long can a Work Permit last?
Work Permit, as a rule, has a duration of up to two years and may be renewed under the condition of fulfillment of all the requirements of eligibility, passport validity, and employer quota.
Is it possible to switch jobs in Singapore on a Work Permit?
Generally, no. Work Permit (WP) is related to a particular employer and a particular job. In order to switch employers, you have to cancel your existing WP with your existing employer and the new employer has to seek a new one.
Are there any Singapore jobs no experience available to a Work Permit?
Yes. Most of the General Workers, Packers and Cleaners positions are entry-level and they do not need any prior experience since in many cases on the job training is offered. This is more so in manufacturing and construction industries.
Is it possible to bring family (dependants) of the Work Permit holders to Singapore?
No. Dependent Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass on behalf of family members cannot be applied by the Work Permit holders. The pass usually is given free to the holders of S Pass who have passed a higher salary cut or Employment Pass holders.
Final Thoughts
Getting such basic employment in Singapore as an overseas employee is actually completely possible provided that you target appropriate industries and learn the system of Work Permit (WP). The high demand of Basic-Skilled Workers in the country by focusing on such positions as Factory Worker or Construction Laborer and addressing such a responsibility to reputable Singapore job agencies, may help you to utilize the high demand of this group of workers in the country. The success of your business depends on the legitimacy of the employer that you are dealing with and that they are in full compliance with all MOM housing, levy and quota conditions. Good luck!
Disclaimer
This job information is provided in order of education and information. Before applying and making up their minds, the reader is encouraged to confirm information, particularly those relating to salary, application procedures and employer requirement, with the official Ministry of Manpower (MOM), or through a reputable and registered employment agency.