Earnings of Full-Time Cleaners in Singapore: An In-Depth Analysis
As of my last update in August 2023, full-time cleaners in Singapore typically earn between SGD 1200 to SGD 2200 per month. This figure can vary based on several key factors including experience, the type of cleaning work (residential, commercial, or specialized), and the employer. Some cleaners may also receive additional benefits such as overtime pay, bonuses, or allowances, which can affect their overall earnings.
However, it is important to note that cleaner roles are often considered low-paying jobs, and people working in these positions may receive substantially lower wages compared to other occupations. For instance, my mother, who worked as a housekeeper in a hotel for two years from 2016 to 2018, earned a basic salary of S$920 per month. Bonuses, if any, based on her performance could bring her total monthly earnings to between S$1110 to S$1250. This demonstrates that the earnings of cleaners can be significantly lower than the contemporary estimates.
Factors Affecting Earnings of Full-Time Cleaners
Several factors contribute to the varying earnings among full-time cleaners:
Experience
Experience plays a crucial role in determining a cleaner's salary. Skilled and experienced cleaners are often offered higher wages because they are more efficient and dependable. Employers may also take into account years of experience when deciding on salary increments. This can translate to an increase of around S$50 to S$200 per month for each additional year of experience.
Type of Cleaning Work
The nature of the cleaning work also affects the earnings. Residential cleaners typically earn less than commercial cleaners. In residential settings, the work involves cleaning homes and maintaining cleanliness for families, which often requires less intense tasks. On the other hand, commercial cleaners are responsible for maintaining cleanliness in bustling office spaces, healthcare facilities, and other public areas. Their work involves more physically demanding tasks and can often result in higher pay.
Educational Background
Certificates or qualifications in related fields can also influence a cleaner's earnings. Employers often value certified cleaners who have undergone specific training programs, as they offer a higher level of expertise and professionalism. Cleaner salaries with such qualifications can be as high as S$1800 to S$2200 per month.
Employer and Company Categorization
The type of employer or company categorization can also impact a cleaner's earnings. Employers in the hospitality industry, such as hotels and restaurants, typically offer higher wages compared to smaller residential cleaning jobs. Government organizations and large corporates are also known to pay their cleaners more due to the stable working environment and potential for regular contractual work.
Benefits and Additional Earnings
In addition to monthly wages, full-time cleaners in Singapore might receive various benefits that can contribute to their overall earnings. Here are some common additional benefits:
Overtime Pay
Working beyond the standard hours can lead to overtime pay, which is often calculated at a higher rate than regular wages. For example, an extra hour worked could result in an additional S$10 to S$15.
Bonuses
Bonuses based on performance or specific tasks can be a significant addition to monthly earnings. Employers may offer performance-based bonuses or end-of-year bonuses to motivate cleaners to maintain high standards of work.
Perks and Allowances
Employers may also provide perks such as uniform allowances, transportation allowances, or food allowances. These additional perks and allowances can help cleaners manage their daily expenses and improve their overall work experience.
Conclusion: The Evolution of Cleaner Wages
Finding accurate and up-to-date information on cleaner earnings in Singapore can be challenging. Given the dynamic nature of the job market and fluctuations in economic conditions, it is advisable to regularly check current job listings or local labor statistics for the most current figures. While base salaries have seen some increases over recent years, the overall earnings of full-time cleaners continue to be lower than many other professions. As the sector evolves, we can hope to see improvements in wages and working conditions for these essential workers.