Automation Utilization: Future of Part Time Jobs in Singapore

What skills will be required in the future of part-time jobs in Singapore? This and other issues will be addressed in the first installment of our Automation Investigation series.

Welcome to the first installment of our Automation Investigation Series, in which we’ll look at the future of part-time work in Singapore. The global rise of AI technology, as well as a general shift toward automated processes, is now ushering in a dramatic shift in our employment ecosystem. In this series, we will discuss the impact of automation on part-time jobs in Singapore’s key industries. We’ll be wondering how part-time work will be affected in Singapore as predicted automation takes hold.

You’ve come to the right place if you’re currently working part-time or are concerned about how automation may impact current and future employment opportunities. Learn more about the various types of part-time work and how automation is expected to impact your industry.

Learn how today’s automation trends can affect you and your job prospects as innovations become more foundational and permanent. Consider how the future of part-time jobs in Singapore is expected to change!

The guiding principle behind predictive automated processes is efficiency. AI and workplace automation tools are intended to increase team productivity. In other words, automation enables more work to be completed in less time and with less human error. While this is an exciting advancement and certainly fantastic news for business growth and scalability, the sheer power of automation can be intimidating for employees who may fear that these remarkable technologies will soon make their skill sets obsolete.

Within the next ten years, 54 percent of Singaporeans believe that their employable skills will be rendered obsolete or significantly altered by automation.

Workers are undervaluing their own professional labor value as a result of the current state of national anxiety. Singaporeans (60 percent) admit to accepting lower-level positions in alternative companies or industries due to the threat of automation. They attribute this to apprehension that their previous jobs would be rendered obsolete by automation. That is a significantly higher proportion of the population than the global average of only 47 percent.

Instead of undervaluing our professional potential, it is time to embrace those skills that will become important once automation becomes a permanent fixture in the future of part-time jobs in Singapore.

We’ll help you future-proof your employability in Singapore now and in the future by taking two approaches. We’ll ask (a) what skills you’ll need to get a job in the post-digitization workplace. And (b) what are some Future of Part Time Jobs in Singapore that promise a few years of steady work or may never be taken over by technology?

What Are the Various Types of Part-Time Jobs in Singapore?

In Singapore, no two part-time jobs are alike. Depending on your industry and job type, future-proofing your employment will look different. Before we discuss the foundations of future employment stability, we must first understand the foundations of various part-time job types in the present. This will allow you to better identify your current employment environment and the extent to which technology will (or will not) play a role in its future development.

Also Read: The Top 20 Job Sites in Canada You Should Know

We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of Singapore’s most common employment jobs by category. Look through this list to find your industry and specialization. We’ll provide a thorough explanation as well as numerous examples.

We recommend that you pay close attention to the key features of each Future of Part Time Jobs in Singapore. Why? Because this is one of the most important indicators of how technology will impact your job’s future. For example, if human emotional intelligence is critical to your role, it’s unlikely that automation will completely replace you any time soon. Even the most sophisticated robots today cannot compete with human empathy.

Retail

Retail jobs are those that involve the sale of consumer goods or services. It could be in-store or (as is becoming more common) online via e-commerce retail outlets. Retailers and those in the retail industry meet consumer demand. However, retail encompasses a wide range of different processes that occur along a supply chain. Retailers, as opposed to wholesalers, sell products or services directly to their intended end-users. Clothing, groceries, gadgets, and even services and recreational activities could fall into this category.

Examples

• Brand representative
• Merchandiser Inventory Associate
• Assistant Store Supervisor in Retail
• Manager of retail
• Purchaser 
• Cashier

Important Features

Retail jobs necessitate emotional intelligence, people skills, patience, resilience, and the ability to multitask.

Food and Drink

All eating and drinking establishments and their associated roles are included in the Food and Beverage industry. This includes a cafeteria and fast-food jobs, as well as manufacturing, packaging, and distribution of food and beverage items throughout the supply chain.

Examples

• Baker 
• Barista 
• Bartender 
• Café Assistant 
• Catering Host 
• Kitchen Staff 
• Restaurant Manager 
• Chef / Sous Chef 
• Waiter / Waitress 
• Bar Manager 
• Steward 
• Cashier

Important Features

Part-time jobs in food and beverage require leadership, financial acumen, and emotional intelligence (for customer-facing roles).

Hospitality and Tourism

Hospitality and tourism are subsets of the service industry and refer to any role that facilitates the transportation, lodging, and entertainment of tourists and guests.

Examples

• Front Office 
• Laundry Attendant 
• Reservations Officer 
• Concierge 
• Front Desk 
• Guest Services Hotel jobs 
• Linen Attendant 
• Receptionist 
• Housekeeper

Important Features

Part-time jobs in Singapore necessitate organization and communication skills, as well as professional safety and hygiene qualifications.

Manufacturing, Logistics, and Supply Chain Management

Manufacturing jobs include those that convert raw materials into finished goods or those that install and repair industrial equipment. It entails the creation, processing, and preparation of goods from raw materials to finished goods. Logistics and supply chain roles support and optimize business processes across companies, as well as customer delivery fulfillment. This industry facilitates the efficient and competitive storage, movement, and distribution of goods and services into and out of any business or organization.

Examples

• Logistics Associate 
• Operations Manager 
• Supply Chain Manager 
• Courier Rider 
• Delivery Driver 
• Packer 
• Warehouse Associate 
• Warehouse Manager 
• Production jobs 
• Operator jobs 
• Quality Assurance

Important Features

Manufacturing workers must be able to think critically and have an interest in and aptitude for technological innovation and processes. Employees in logistics and supply chains must be highly organized, efficient, and detail-oriented. Interpersonal skills are also required in customer-facing roles.

Procurement

Procurement jobs entail evaluating products, suppliers, and services. Workers are in charge of contract negotiations and improving the overall efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness of purchases.

Examples

• Buyer 
• Procurement Associate 
• Essential Qualities

Employees in the procurement sector must be excellent negotiators and communicators. They must also be able to cultivate loyal, enterprising relationships with organizations and suppliers.

Maritime And Shipping

Shipping and maritime jobs include any business involving the sea, maritime trading, and naval administrations. For instance, any role involving ports, oil rigs, ships, or other marine vessels

Examples

Freight jobs include Seaman, Oil Driller, Shipping Agent, and Freight Broker.

Important Features

Maritime workers must be physically fit and stamina, as well as have the ability to problem-solve and resolve major technical issues or equipment failures.

Administration and Operations

Administrative and operational jobs entail planning, coordinating, and directing administrative services for a given organization. Typically, this includes everything from customer service to inventory management and office administration.

Examples

• Administrative assistant
• Assistant Operations Manager 
• Operations Assistant 
• Associate Executive 
• Assistant Personal Assistant

Important Features

Administrators must have the conceptual ability as well as a high level of attention to detail and organization to keep an organization running smoothly on a daily basis.

Fitness And Beauty

Many part-time workers are employed in the beauty and wellness industry in various roles involving beauty, health, and wellbeing. Typically, these positions entail providing therapeutic treatments and aesthetic services such as facials, massage, and makeup.

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Examples

Makeup Artist Makeup Consultant Spa Jobs Hair Stylist Beauty Therapist

Personal trainer, gym coordinator, nutritionist, and recreation jobs are available.

Important Features

Health and beauty therapists and training providers must create a safe, open environment for their clients, which necessitates excellent people skills, empathy, and attention to detail.

Construction and Maintenance

The construction industry is diverse, encompassing the residential, commercial, and industrial building and maintenance projects. It could include any work related to the construction or maintenance of homes, commercial properties, public infrastructure, and/or utility systems.

Examples

• Surveyor
• Contractor
• Construction Worker 
• Cad/Auto-Cad Positions
• Project administration
• Groundsman
• Handyman
• Plumber 
• Electrician 
• Cleaner
• Housekeeper 
• Mover

Important Features

Construction workers must have a wide range of skills, including technological aptitude, excellent communication skills, and physical strength and dexterity.

Administration and Public Services

Jobs in government and public service are diverse. Each role contributes to the preservation of social order, national security, public life quality, and local communities.

Examples

Jobs in libraries, social work, city planning, public health, and law enforcement

Special Education Disability Services for Teachers in Schools

Important Features

Workers in government serve their communities and the people who live under local or regional jurisdictions. Individuals working in the public sector must be organized, team players with excellent interpersonal skills and leadership qualities.

Human Resources and Recruitment

Human Resources and recruitment roles are concerned with attracting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, onboarding, and engaging employees in a specific institution. These positions are critical to keeping organizations running smoothly and adequately staffed at all times.

Examples

HR Recruitment Associate Talen Acquisition HR Manager

Important Features

HR and recruitment professionals must have excellent communication skills as well as be impartial and objective when dealing with employees.

Sales, Marketing, and Special Events

This division of labor includes all operations and activities that result in the sale of goods and services. It has the ability to increase revenue for any business.

Examples

• Sales Associate 
• Business Development 
• Telemarketing 
• Call Center Agent 
• Public Relations (PR) 
• Marketing Associate/ Manager 
• Social Media Associate/ Manager 
• Event Promoter 
• Customer Service
• SEO professional

Important Features

Attention to detail, customer focus, operational excellence, and agility are important characteristics in marketing, sales, and events.

Clinical and Healthcare Services

Healthcare jobs range from diagnostic services to therapeutic and support services, as well as research and development.

Examples

Services for Emergencies

Nursing Assistant Radiographer Pharmacist Care Worker

Important Features

For dealing with vulnerable patients, healthcare workers must have a high level of professional training as well as emotional stability and empathy.

Legal, Compliance, and Finance Professional Services

Lawyers, accountants, architects, financial professionals, engineers, and consultants are examples of professional services. They offer clients professional knowledge-based services.

Examples

• Associate Lawyer 
• Compliance 
• Accountant Analyst 
• Financial Consultant I
• insurance Agent 
• Bank Clerk 
• Risk Manager

Important Features

Employees in professional services must have not only professional training but also an aptitude for technology, ongoing learning, and emotional intelligence for client-facing roles.

What Are Some Important Automation Trends I Should Be Aware Of?

If you’re worried about how automation will affect your job in the near future, staying up to date on current automation trends is a great way to stay ahead of the curve.

Check out this list of the top automation trends that will impact Asia-Pacific in the coming years.

RPA and AI

Two leading technologies dominate the automation market. RPA and AI (artificial intelligence) (Robotic Process Automation). AI helps with decision-making. It accelerates and improves complex decision-making by utilizing data-driven metrics and analysis that eliminate human error. RPA, on the other hand, employs robotics to automate repetitive manual processes, such as those found on a manufacturing line. While AI and RPA automation gradually replace previously manual tasks, they also expand employment opportunities for some. Employees with RPA and AI expertise are in high demand throughout the region.

CONVERGENCE OF IT AND OT FOR OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY

IT and OT are combining to drive large-scale digital transformations across industries. IT refers to any process involving computer technology. This includes standard hardware and software. Physical processes are driven by operations technology, such as transportation control systems. Through tight integrations, industries are gaining access to more information and streamlining processes by combining IT and OT. To put it another way, digitized processes foster interoperability, flexibility, efficiency, accuracy, and profitability. Convergence can aid in the improvement of cybersecurity, power-automation integration, manufacturing processes, and even sustainable manufacturing.

OPERATIONS AT A DISTANCE

Automation is fueling the global rise of remote working. Because of the innovative solutions provided by Automation and IT suppliers, an increasing number of businesses and organizations are stepping up and providing remote working opportunities for their employees. Automation now allows for the maintenance of a connected workforce in a cyber-secure, online environment. Even if the CEO, managers, and staff are in different locations, real-time visibility, sharing, and controls allow operations to run smoothly.

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Furthermore, new research suggests that remote working may even improve efficiency by allowing businesses to capitalize on novel workflow processes (AR for example). The covid-19 pandemic has only accelerated this growing trend. Many businesses, it appears, will continue to use remote operations. Workers in Singapore concur. A recent survey of 9000 respondents from 90 companies found that nine out of ten Singaporeans want to continue working remotely in some capacity.

FROM AUTOMATION TO AUTONOMY

Manufacturers are transitioning from automated to autonomous operations. But what’s the distinction? Consider it like a car. Your automobile is a mechanical system that drives a vehicle. But you remain in command. The automated operation is your car. Consider a Tesla. A Tesla is still a vehicle. However, it is a self-driving system that reacts to its surroundings intuitively and without external supervision. In other words, it is self-sufficient.

In the manufacturing industry, autonomous operations enable manufacturers to use their workers’ time more efficiently and on high-value tasks. Autonomous systems eliminate the need for human operators for low-level tasks. Autonomous systems will soon replace human decision-making, aided by precision real-time data, machine learning, and artificial intelligence.

THE EMERGENCE OF IoT

The Internet of Things (or IoT for short) is a massive new automation trend. As strange as it may sound, you can think of IoT as the process by which objects communicate with one another. In other words, all devices that are connected to the internet are linked. These devices constantly exchange data, and automated tools can mobilize this data, analyze it, learn from it, and use it to improve operational functions.

And you’ve probably already come across IoT. Take, for example, FitBits. These popular smart-fitness watches are internet-connected and use sensors to transmit precise data. Other common examples include smart home devices such as Amazon Alexa. But IoT is more than just a cool consumer gadget. It is also changing industrial practices in a variety of ways. Autonomous farming equipment, smart factory equipment, shipping container logistics tracking, biometric cybersecurity, and smart inventory management tools are examples of IoT in the industry.

COMPUTING ON THE EDGE

Edge computing technology is defined by IBM as a “distributed computing framework that brings enterprise applications closer to data sources such as IoT devices or local edge servers.” Edge computing provides numerous advantages, including faster response times and increased bandwidth. This technology is advancing, and edge automation is making it easier to integrate Edge computing into the workplace without requiring highly specialized IT personnel to support it. Edge automation platforms are always on and can be used to improve industrial processes, cut costs, and save time.

How Will Automation Affect Part-Time Jobs in Singapore in the Future?

Automation is causing a fundamental, structural change in Singapore and around the world. As a result, it will undoubtedly be felt at all levels and across all industries. Over the next decade, the future of part-time jobs in Singapore may change dramatically. Depending on your industry, the types of occupations (and the skills required by employees) will most likely change as automation takes hold.

Lee King Fue examines the susceptibility of Singapore’s jobs to augmenting computerization and automation in the country in a study published in the Journal of Southeast Asian Economies, finding that approximately one-quarter of Singaporean employment is at high risk of computerization in the future. Though this is relatively low in comparison to the number of high-risk jobs globally, automation is threatening older Singaporeans and those who rely on low-wage jobs to make ends meet. These are the groups most at risk of losing their jobs.

According to research, automation will affect approximately 24 percent of work activities in Singapore by 2023. However, this does not necessarily imply a wave of layoffs. In fact, MGI research indicates that process automation is more likely to create new jobs. Jobs that did not previously exist. Because of the automation boom, it is now expected that up to 9% of Singapore’s labor demand in 2030 will be for completely new jobs.

What abilities will be required for future part-time jobs in Singapore?

With automation already in place and more developments on the horizon, now is the time to begin equipping the workforce with the skills and credentials needed for future part-time (and full-time) jobs. More workers will be required to be trained in the skills required to work alongside intelligent machinery. We must be prepared for a new type of labor.

So, what’s the general consensus?

Demand for manual labor is expected to fall, but demand for tech talent is expected to rise. Employees who want to future-proof their employability should begin training and practicing the skills that the future will require.

However, not all jobs are doomed to change forever. Roles requiring empathy and emotional intelligence will always be in high demand. Social and emotional abilities, as well as the jobs that require them, are likely to outlast the current technological revolution.

Reskilling is the current buzzword in industries where automation is making an impact. In Singapore, government initiatives such as Skills Future and Adapt and Grow are assisting local workers in developing the skills necessary to remain employable in the face of changing workplace practices. Similarly, the private sector is under increasing pressure to reskill its employees so that they can transition into appropriate roles and advance their careers.

In the future, employees will need the following skills to carve out a niche in the automated workplace. The World Economic Forum outlines the ten most important skills for surviving the rise of automation.

Solving Difficult Problems

No matter how advanced AI becomes, some problems will always require human intervention. Precision thinkers will be in high demand in the age of digitization.

Thinking Critically

Human thought is still subtle and nuanced in machines. As a result, companies will continue to require intelligent humans on their teams to conceptualize and create.

Creativity

True creativity is an unexplainable phenomenon with which AI cannot compete. Jobs in the creative industries are on the decline. This world still requires artists.

Social Skills

Although AI is intelligent, it does not have the best bedside manner. People skills are still in high demand for roles requiring coordination, decision-making, negotiation, and caregiving.

Accountability

Someone with authority is sometimes required for a system to function (or accountability). The ability to make difficult decisions and accept responsibility for them is a very useful skill to have. Consider a surgeon or a politician, for example.

What Are the Best Part-Time Jobs in Singapore for the Future?

Along with developing your skillset to meet future workplace needs, you may discover that you already have one or more of what I call timeless skills. These timeless skills are unaffected by market changes or technological advancements. In Singapore, the impact of automation on part-time jobs will be minimal. In other words, they will never go out of style.

Also Read: How to Get Entry-Level Jobs in Singapore?

Let’s take a look at some of these jobs for the future.

Human Resources

People skills are essential for those working in human resources. Their daily duties revolve around interpersonal relationships, reasoning, conflict resolution, and human understanding. These are abilities that (as of yet) cannot be programmed into even the most advanced robots. So HR gets a big thumbs up for being future-proof.

Analysts of computer systems

There will always be a need for computer analysts. Why? Because everyone requires someone who understands the systems on which we rely so heavily. Indeed, as automation gains traction, the demand for computer analysts will rise. Computer analysts act as a liaison between humans and computers. In other words, it is critical.

Teachers in Schools

Congratulations if you can think of any parents who want robots to teach their children. This is, for the time being, out of the question. Education may use automated tools for administrative and remote learning purposes, but school teachers remain distinctly human. Training the next generation of thinkers is a career with a bright future.

Professors

Similarly, university professors are essential. Universities, like schools, may use automated tools to improve the learning experience and provide students with flexible learning options, but professors will always be needed to impart their invaluable knowledge, experience, support, and mentorship.

Athletes of Professional Standing

Sports are just that: sports. Just and square. Sure, watching robots play football is entertaining the first time, but will it catch on? The entire concept of human athleticism is to marvel at human ability and competition. That is why it is worthwhile. Sporting excellence will always revolve around the human body. Robots are not permitted.

Legal Consultants

Robots cannot uphold a legal system. To function, legal counsel and legal systems rely on human acumen, analysis, negotiation, and humanity. The law is nuanced, complicated, and subjective.

Professional Authors

Writing is a creative art that involves shaping complex thoughts in order to transmit information to the reader, whether you’re writing fiction, journalism, or scientific papers. A robot may be able to gather facts, but it will never be able to write. As a result, writing is a skill that is future-proof because it requires original human thought, creativity, imagination, and talent.

Positions of Leadership

Consider your CEO. Imagine them as a robot… how do you feel? CEOs and others in positions of authority must be human. Their job is to inspire large groups of employees to align with and support a company’s goal, ethos, or mission. Leaders must have charisma, genuine passion, intellect, and people skills in order to engage employees.

Politicians

Can you imagine your city council or country being run by a bot? I didn’t believe so. Politics and government are inherently human institutions and practices. Politics is a combination of emotion, policy, negotiation, and, most importantly, humanity. Politicians must be adaptable, versatile, and intelligent, as well as have empathy, resilience, and integrity.

Religious Authorities

Religion is based on faith, not facts. As a result, robots make lousy priests, imams, rabbis, and monks. Robots are incapable of instilling wisdom, faith, and hope in their congregations. Religious leaders must be charismatic and able to guide their followers in their religious faith. Robots are not capable of this because they are not programmed with evidence-based data and knowable facts.

Psychology and Psychiatry

Mental health professionals must be sensitive to human emotion, pain, and suffering, as well as the complexities of the human experience. As a result, robots have a significant disadvantage. Nobody wants to talk to a robot about their trauma, anxiety, depression, or relationships. A human (whether a psychiatrist, psychologist or therapist) is absolutely necessary to gain anything from therapy.

Medicine

AI is unquestionably making an impact in medicine. When it comes to disease pattern prediction, accurate diagnosis, and certain surgical procedures, artificial intelligence is making huge strides. Doctors, on the other hand, will always be required to administer to and treat patients. A diagnosis is not always straightforward. And, quite often, the most effective diagnoses and treatment plans are discovered through relationship-building, empathy, and conversation.

Nursing

Nurses of all specialties are critical members of our communities. In addition to their expert medical knowledge, nurses are frequently a patient’s primary point of contact and emotional support while in the hospital. Nurses must have a high level of empathy, compassion, and personability in order to interact with vulnerable and ill patients on a daily basis. Robots do not have a good bedside manner.

Surgery

Robots are changing surgical practices, but they are not replacing surgeons. Machines assist surgeons in performing surgeries that would otherwise be impossible. However, it remains the surgeon’s responsibility to manage those machines and achieve a successful outcome. In other words, in our hospitals, automation is assisting, not replacing, the role of the surgeon.

Enforcement of the Law

Robocops are not a viable option for policing our streets. A robot or artificial intelligence (AI) may be able to tell you off for dropping litter on the floor, but it will fall short when it comes to more serious crime. Professionally trained law enforcement is required for this. Human analysis, subjectivity, and intuition are absolutely critical in detective work.

Musicians and artists

A robot can be taught to play the piano, but not to play like Zimmerman. Artists and musicians cannot be replaced because art and music cannot be replaced. The joy of creation is intangible. It cannot be programmed or coded in any way. It is distinctively human.

Occupational Therapy (OT)

Occupational therapists use therapeutic activities to help injured, ill, or disabled patients recover from their injuries, illnesses, or disabilities. The job necessitates human empathy, especially since many patients will be in physical and/or emotional pain while undergoing rehabilitation.

Management

Managers must be capable of making decisions. Fast. However, these decisions are not always linked to a specific data source. This is why robots do not make good managers. AI can help managers streamline workflows with automated tools and real-time analytics, but using this data to form a strategy necessitates a more human-shaped brain.

Workers in Social Services

Social work is an extremely valuable public service. More than most jobs, social work necessitates a high level of human compassion, understanding, and empathy. Social workers work with our community’s most vulnerable members. Robots will never be able to compete with a human touch. And the role of a social worker is (and will continue to be) critical.

Services for Emergencies

First responders, EMTs, firefighters, and prevention workers respond to unexpected, and frequently highly unpredictable, events. Emergency personnel must think quickly on their feet and make life-or-death decisions based on often choppy, disjointed information. AI can assist behind the scenes (for example, in emergency call centers), but our emergency service workers will always be needed on the ground to assist those in need.

The Future of Part-Time Jobs in Singapore

Part-time employment in Singapore is in flux. Automation is taking hold across the globe, promising efficiency, process optimization, financial savings, and increased profits. As businesses and institutions embark on their own digital transformations, automation is becoming ingrained in workplace structures and practices. As a result, some people have begun to worry about their future employment prospects, asking, “Will automation take over my job?” True, automation is altering the nature of work and the skillsets that will be in high demand in the near future.

That is why it is critical that government agencies and commercial institutions take steps to train existing employees in new skills so that they can find a place in a newly automated workplace.

Having said that, some jobs are already future-proof. A robot cannot take on every role. These positions, particularly in healthcare, social care, and leadership, will never be replaced. Why? Because they necessitate human nature. Despite widespread automation, there are some tasks that robots will never be able to replace. Future part-time jobs in Singapore in these industries are safe.

We hope this article has given you some insight into how the future of part-time jobs in Singapore may change.

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