Employers tighten hiring amidst costs, chase AI talent: PERSOL

AI and data skills command premium salaries of up to $15,000 a month.

Artificial intelligence (AI) or data skills ranked amongst the top 10 most in-demand across 14 functions and industries as employers become more selective in hiring, according to PERSOL's Singapore Salary Guide 2026/2027.

The guide found that companies are prioritising professionals who can support AI adoption, cloud optimisation, and cybersecurity resilience whilst remaining cautious about overall headcount and wage growth amidst rising costs.

“AI and data skills are no longer confined to technology roles, and professionals who invest in upskilling will be best positioned to stand out,” said Foo See Yang, managing director and strategic business group head at PERSOL APAC.

He added that as specialist AI and data talent command premium salaries, combining targeted hiring with staff upskilling can help businesses build capabilities whilst managing costs. Monthly base salaries range from $6,000 to $12,000 for AI engineers, $7,500 to $14,000 for data scientists, and $7,000 to $15,000 for cybersecurity managers.

“Professionals are also increasingly expected to embrace lifelong learning to strengthen their capabilities amidst a challenging economic environment,” Foo said.

In banking and finance, hiring remains active for revenue-generating roles in wealth management, corporate banking, treasury, and insurance.

Private banking relationship managers can earn between $8,000 and $20,000 a month, whilst senior relationship managers can earn up to $30,000.

Singapore’s healthcare workforce is projected to grow 20%, from 129,000 workers in 2024 to about 156,000 by 2030, according to the Ministry of Health.

Demand remains strong for physiotherapists, occupational therapists, radiographers, and pharmacists amidst registration requirements and a limited local talent pool.

Sustainability professionals are also expected to see growing demand as mandatory climate reporting expands to more listed companies from the financial year 2028.

Bilingual and cross-cultural talent is likewise increasingly sought after as Singapore and Japan mark 60 years of diplomatic relations.

PERSOL said shortages of specialised and certified workers could slow business expansion and client delivery, particularly in regulated industries.

Employers may therefore need to recruit earlier and offer more than competitive salaries, including flexible work arrangements and structured career development, to attract and retain scarce talent.

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