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Software Developer Salary in Singapore [2024 Market Overview]
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27th Dec, 2023
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As we move toward the digital era, the requirement for digital skills such as software development is increasing. So, if you have the right skills, this might be the right career option for you. Software developers are the great mastermind behind video games with amazing graphics or mobile and web applications that you use smoothly. They are highly skilled programmers who solve complex problems in websites, applications, etc. These skills can be learned with any Software Developer Training program. As everything is going online, the requirement for software developers is increasing every day. Many MNCs and huge companies are hiring software developers at very lucrative salaries in addition to growth opportunities in every part of the world. Singapore, the leading innovative tech hub in Asia, is the breeding ground for software developers. Their skill sets make software developers one of the highest-paid tech professionals in the world. So, what is the software developer's salary in Singapore?
What Does Software Developer Do?
Software developers design and develop applications for various technologies using several tools and talents. They whisk their magic by testing, writing codes, helping build new software, and managing a team of coders. They also look into the problem, identify the solution, and sometimes manage the company's software performance upgrade to ensure everything is functional. Hence, their job is far more than just writing monotonous codes.
A software developer has a very crucial job role in an organization. They make sure that all enterprise applications run smoothly at any cost. These are the reasons they are in high demand. Many industries, such as medicine, business, technology, defense, aerospace, marketing, and manufacturing, need a team of software developers to ensure their businesses' maximum performance and introduce innovative software and technologies. Hence, between 2020-2030 the employment of software developers is expected to increase by 22.2%.
What Is the Average Software Developer Salary in Singapore?
In metropolitan areas, the average salary for a software developer in Singapore is S$58,426 SGD (yearly). However, there are several factors depending on which the salary of a senior software developer might vary from that of a junior software developer. Let us have a look at the factors that impact the salary of a software developer in Singapore.
Software Developer Salary in Singapore Based on Experience Level
Software developer income in Singapore depends on experience. The higher the experience, the more it is, the higher. Hence, it can be concluded that the salary of a senior software developer in Singapore can be higher than compared of a fresher or an entry-level software developer. According to a survey done by a salary portal, below are some figures for yearly salaries increment -
| Designation | Increment Percentage | Salary Range (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|
Junior Level | 3-5% | 4400 - 6899 SGD |
Mid-Senior Level | 6-9% | 7000 - 8000 SGD |
Senior Level | 15% | 8000 - 9500 SGD |
Top Management | 15-20% | 10000 -12000 SGD |
1. For Freshers
The junior software developer salary in Singapore is 3, 607 USD per month on an average. The highest paying cities for entry-level software developers are - Outram, Ubi, Shenton Way, etc. As a fresher, the software developer salary in Singapore is 51,000 SGD per year.
2. For Experienced
The senior software developer salary in Singapore is 4932 USD per month on average. The top companies hiring senior software developers are - TikTok, Zendesk, DBS Bank, Grab, Autodesk, etc. The senior software developer salary in Singapore per month for an experienced candidate is 95,972 SGD.
Skills that Affect Software Developer Salaries in Singapore
Software developer skills include the technical knowledge and capabilities to create efficient programs and applications. And that's why the salary of a software developer in Singapore is quite attractive for those who have these skills. The skills usually involve mathematical knowledge and problem-solving skills to write source codes that allow a program to run. There are a few skills that affect the software developer pay in Singapore. Read below to know more -
1. Coding Languages
Coding language is important for software developers to have specialization in at least 1-2 coding languages that can increase their opportunity to earn more. Every programming language is specified for a certain work, meaning the programming language of mobile applications will differ from video games. We have curated a list of programming languages to help you amplify your career -
- HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) - HTML is important when designing or creating a webpage. These are used as standardized options to display text and images on a web application like - paragraphs, bullet lists, charts, and many more.
- JavaScript - JavaScript helps the most interactive computer and mobile device features function properly. Today, many projects are becoming more reliant on JavaScript, and companies are looking for more technically sound people in this language.
- C++ - C++ is one of the most commonly used programming languages which helps optimize hardware capabilities. Many video game developers use C++ to design complex gaming systems with high-quality computer graphics.
- Python - Python has recently gained popularity and is used in website, software, and application development. It is a general-use coding language and is considered the easiest of all programming languages. It also helps in writing code for the entire program and easily tracks errors.
- CSS (Cascading Styles Sheet) - CSS is a rule-based programming syntax used in web development that allows you to add color, fonts, and spacing to the content of a website application. Usually, CSS and HTML are learned at the same time.
2. Database Knowledge
Database in website development allows programmers to organize and structure information and records for a company. It is important for software developers to learn how to search for information, create new lines of data in table format and update the system with new materials. In addition, they must also understand how to secure databases and backup data in case of any unforeseen circumstances. For this, a software developer needs to learn SQL (Structured Query Language) - a standardized source code. Some of the SQL skills to develop are as follows -
- Microsoft SQL Server Skills
- Database Management
- SQL Join Skills
- PHP Skills
- OLAP Skills
- Indexing Skills
- Execution Skills
- Technical SQL Data Analysis
3. Source Control Management
SCM (Source Control Management) is a system that helps a software developer to track updates and make changes to a coding language. It allows them to work on different codes separately and merge them to create a program. It also helps generate a list of revision work done on the code and restore the previous state, if necessary. Many companies use Git - an open-ended SCM application that allows you to store various versions of code in one place.
4. Database Structures and Algorithms
Different organizations use different data structures to store information in a database, and the algorithms help complete the task. Many software developers use various data structures and algorithms to ensure they have the right combination, which can help them optimize their information in the code. The correct combination can help the user choose the font type and size.
5. Debugging
Debugging is a process of tracking, addressing, and removing errors in the code. The software developers run the program through specialized software to detect and solve errors. Many software developers ensure to debug the code while writing to ensure its efficiency in the testing stage.
6. Cryptography
The knowledge of cryptography predominantly affects the software developer Pay Scale in Singapore. Many companies look for developers who have encryption and decryption knowledge. Cryptography involves concealing confidential data through encryption and also developing decryption code. This helps to keep the company's data confidential and protected from malicious activities.
7. Cloud Platforms
As organizations move online, they prefer storing information in the cloud. Managing these platforms often requires coding knowledge and server management skills. Companies like Amazon, which uses AWS (Amazon Web Service), hire individuals with knowledge of cloud platforms. This skill also affects the software developer's income in Singapore.
8. Text Editing Software
Text Editing Software allows software developers to create and edit plain text, removing any formatting used in word processors. They usually use this software to write the texts required for coding language because it allows them to transfer the code from one system to the other. Developing this skill can add value to your resume and streamline your software development process. Some of the text editing software are as follows -
- Text Mate
- Notepad++
- Brackets
- Atom
Some of the other skills that affect software developer salary in Singapore are -
| Skills | Effect on Salary |
|---|---|
Apache Kafka | 61% |
Scala | 40% |
Kubernetes | 38% |
Database | 38% |
Deep Learning | 35% |
Ruby | 35% |
Microservices | 31% |
Go (Golang) Programming Language | 28% |
React Native | 28% |
Objective - C | 26% |
Source: PayScale
Highest Paying Cities for Software Developer near Singapore
The average salary of a software developer in Singapore is between 6590 USD to 7900 USD. Some of the highest-paying cities for software developers near Singapore are as follows -
| Cities | Salary in SGD (Monthly) |
|---|---|
Raffles | 9506 SGD |
Clementi | 7044 SGD |
Toa Payoh | 6754 SGD |
Ang Mo Kio | 6799 SGD |
Jurong Island | 7811 SGD |
Tanjong Pagar | 7962 SGD |
Outram | 8014 SGD |
Geylang | 7000 SGD |
Top Paying Industries for Software Developers in Singapore
With so many top-paying companies, Singapore is one of the most successful countries globally, which offers the best-paid jobs for software developers. We have mentioned the average software developer salary in Singapore offered by the top industries -
| Industries | Companies |
|---|---|
Healthcare |
|
Retail |
|
Research and Development |
|
Information Technology |
|
Media and Entertainment |
|
Let us discuss some of the top industries hiring for software developers in detail -
1. Healthcare
Software developers are highly in demand in healthcare industries in Singapore. These industries include companies that offer medical services, insurance, manufacturing drugs, or distributing medical equipment.
2. Retail
Many retail companies in Singapore use software applications to interact with customers and offer online support. Software developers develop programs to track and record sales, promote brands, and manage products.
3. Research and Development
Private and government companies in Singapore hire software developers to conduct research and development to create innovative products and improve users' experience. Software developers play an important role in data collection and analysis to ensure the company's security.
4. Information Technology
Many tech industries in Singapore create software, internet services, hardware, and other information technology-related services for customers. This is a suitable industry for those who are looking for career growth and want to succeed in a fast-paced environment.
5. Media and Entertainment
Media and entertainment companies use software to create better content and manage workflow. For this, they need software developers. They run and test any programs before they are made public.
Top Paying Companies for Software Developers in Singapore
Software developers are highly in demand globally. The average software developer pay in Singapore is 5,307 USD per month. Below are some of the top-paying companies for a software developer in Singapore -
| Companies | Salary in SGD (per month) |
|---|---|
Meta | 13,015 SGD |
Government Technology Agency | 12,188 SGD |
ByteDance | 11,873 SGD |
Tiktok | 11,339 SGD |
Grab | 10,514 SGD |
UBS | 10,568 SGD |
JPMorgan Chase & Co | 9,857 SGD |
EPAM Systems | 8,171 SGD |
PayPal | 8,942 SGD |
Singtel | 7,639 SGD |
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) | 7,843 SGD |
DBS (Development Bank of Singapore) | 4522 SGD |
Software Developer Salary Comparison by Gender in Singapore
Various factors affect the software developer's pay based on gender. One factor might be the availability of less professional experience in women than in men. The following table indicates the salary comparison by gender in Singapore -
| Gender | Salary |
|---|---|
Male | 80.1% |
Female | 19.7% |
Prefer Not to Say | 0.2% |
Software Developer Bonus and Incentive Rates in Singapore
The additional cash compensation for software developers in Singapore is SGD 9,857, with a range from SGD 2080 - SGD 17000.
In 2021, 44% of the employees stated that they had not received any incentives or bonuses. Whereas 56% of the employees claimed to receive one monetary reward. According to employees who received bonuses and incentives, they stated that the bonus pay ranged between 3-6% of their annual pay. There are three bonus plans for software developers in Singapore -
1. Individual Performance-Based Bonuses (Incentives)
Performance bonuses or incentives are paid to those who have a specific goal or target. This is beyond the wage offered after a performance appraisal once the employee has met the expectations of the company. Hence, the employee is not automatically entitled to it and has to earn it.
2. Company's Performance Bonus
This is the bonus that the company shares with its employees when they earn profit. However, this pay will differ from person to person depending on their position.
3. Comparison of Bonus by Seniority
Bonus and incentives rates are usually higher for top management than junior employees due to their higher workload.
Apart from that, software developers also get a bonus for holiday and a year-end bonus as a token of appreciation. The table below tells the percentage of the additional pays for software developers in Singapore for software developers.
| Benefits | Percentage |
|---|---|
Medical | 83% |
Vision | 18% |
Dental | 46% |
None | 16% |
How To Get Paid More as a Software Developer in 2024?
A software developer is undoubtedly one of the most demanding skills in which an individual can earn good salaries working with huge MNCs such as Amazon, Capgemini, etc. However, people look for several other ways which can help them earn more - apart from your part-time job. Below are some ways to increase software engineer salary in Singapore in 2024.
1. Build and Sell Digital Products
Digital products are much more in demand than physical products and can scale your business quickly. You can sell some digital photographs clicked by you online or some music albums of different genres. All these products, if sold digitally, will eliminate the cost of shipping charges and will ultimately increase the profit margin. You can also sell some websites developed and designed by you. Many organizations are looking for amazing and unique websites.
2. Blogging
As a software developer, you have more knowledge than an average blogger. You can take this to your advantage and start your own website, writing blogs about software development, AI (Artificial Intelligence) and ML (Machine Learning), etc. This will also keep you updated with the newest technologies and improvements. It will go slow, but ultimately with a good reach, you can earn well. The best part is you can do this while continuing your 9 to 5 job.
3. Freelance
Many organizations want to hire software developers as freelancers. This is also one of the best ways to earn money apart from your 9 to 5 job. You can work for multiple clients, but finding quality clients has some challenges. If you get a few quality clients, you don't have to return to your office job. You can earn even more than that - a solopreneur ship. All you need to do is have better knowledge of a few programming languages. The pay of a freelance software developer ranges from 1500-2700 USD during the initial stage. Then eventually, it will increase with time and experience.
4. Create Your Own Applications
Developing an application with in-app purchases can help you get a lifetime loyal customer and ease of payment. An editing application can be great - as it can have all the plans - basics, standard, and premium. The best part is you can keep the basic plan free for up to a limited time and set a price. With the help of python, Java, and Ruby, along with AI and ML, you can create any application.
5. Affiliate Marketing
If you work for a tech company, you can market the product and make people aware of the subsidiaries. This way, you can earn a commission on this. The average earned might range from 4.5 to 10%, based on the product with which you are affiliated.
Apart from the above-mentioned points, you need proper knowledge of the software development industry. Here are a few certification courses that affect software developer earnings in Singapore -
6. Microsoft Certified Azure Developer Associate
Microsoft certification is one of the most highly recognized in the IT sector. The Microsoft Azure Developer Associate Certificate includes cloud services for business organizational challenges. You will also learn to build, manage, and deploy scalable, high-performing websites.
7. AWS (Amazon Web Services) Certified Developer
The AWS certificate provides scalable cloud computing for creating web applications and is best for developers who design, build, and run applications on the AWS platform. This certificate teaches you to design, create, develop, and deploy cloud-based solutions. In addition to this, you will also learn debugging and security.
8. CIW Web Development Professional
A CIW certificate requires a lot of time and money, but it is worth showing off your web development skills. This is considered a full and comprehensive certification track for software developers.
9. Google Professional Cloud Developer
If your dream is to work as an employee at Google and develop Google cloud, this is the most recommended course for you. However, this requires 3+ years of professional experience and managing Google Cloud solutions.
10. Oracle Java SE
Oracle offers several certification courses at professional, master, and expert levels. This will require a professional-level certification, typically requiring an OCP Java certification. Also, a Sun Certified Oracle Java Certification for Programmers will do.
11. Certified Scrum Developer
The Scrum Alliance is a member-based organization that boosts the use of Scrum through various ways - advocacy, education, networking, and collaboration. The entry-level Alliance Certified Scrum Developer (CSD) targets individuals who have expertise in Scrum and understand Scrum principles. The certification course teaches - support tools, using Scrum efficiently, and development practices, in addition to testing, coding, and designing. There are several Full Stack Development Bootcamp in Singapore where you can learn coding with various programming languages.
Conclusion
Software developer salary in Singapore varies from place to place, the skills of the candidate and the seniority level. Undoubtedly, it is one of the most demanding skills in the market, and as per reports, software development will rule the industry in the coming ten years. The value of your knowledge and skill sets, especially soft skills, will be very helpful in cracking the interview and getting a job in the country. In addition, verbal and written communication is also necessary - these can be learned from any Online Web Development training programs. Taking a certification course also increases the chance of getting selected by top-paying companies in Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is a Software Developer internship a good way to get a job in Singapore?
Yes. It is the best way to get a job in Singapore as a software developer. The companies in Singapore also welcome international candidates for internships.
2. What is considered to be a good Software Developer salary in Singapore?
A good software developer's salary in Singapore ranges from 5500 USD to 7000 USD per month.
3. Who gets paid more, Software Developer or Cyber security in Singapore?
Software developers earn between 64K USD to 130K USD, whereas a data analyst earns between 69K USD to 139K USD. However, these numbers vary depending on the skillset and the location of the job.
4. Do Software Developers make more than Data Analyst in Singapore?
Both software developers and data analysts make good money based on their experience, roles and responsibilities, location, and designation.
5. What month do Software Developers get appraisals in Singapore?
Software developer in Singapore gets an appraisal every six months, where they are given incentives or bonus, or a promotion.
6. Is Software Developer a high-paying job in Singapore?
While there is no minimum salary for a software developer in Singapore, the average salary for a software developer is SGD 120,315.
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