If you’re trying to find information about some of the most exciting careers in Hong Kong, we’ve got you covered. We look at some of the top roles and how to get them.
Whether you’re looking for a career change or are just starting to plan for your future career, looking at the earning potential for particular jobs can be useful. Although your salary is far from the only important aspect, it can decide which roles you aim for. With that in mind, we look at the exciting careers to pursue in Hong Kong.
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In addition to exploring the careers that pay the most, we also examine some of the steps you’ll need to get these jobs. And, to help you on your way, we’ve included some links to courses that are useful when you’re first starting.
Table of Contents
1. Financial Analyst
Financial analysts take on a wide variety of tasks in their job roles. Primarily, they gather data, organize information, analyze results, and make forecasts and recommendations. It’s a role that requires excellent analytical skills, as they have to help businesses understand the full financial picture so they can make informed decisions. Financial analysts will often specialize in one particular area, such as investment, private equity, or corporate development, which is why this is among the best-paying jobs in Hong Kong.
Usually, you’ll need to start with a degree in a field related to finance or accounting. From here, an internship or experience in a junior role is preferred. Some firms require that you also have a registration with the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
The average salary for a financial analyst in Hong Kong is HK$297,476.
2. Software Developer
The role of a software developer is a varied one. As technology changes, the demands of organizations also progress. As such, software engineers must create, maintain, and audit IT systems to meet the needs of the business. These can be hardware or software solutions, requiring coding and programming knowledge. As in many countries, this is one of the best-paying jobs in Hong Kong.
You’ll need a blend of qualifications and experience to become a software developer. A good place to start is with a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as computer science. Many developers also study towards a master’s qualification. However, hands-on experience with writing code and creating programs is also essential.
The average salary for a software developer in Hong Kong is HK$387,555.
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3. Architect
Architects are professionals who are qualified to design and advise on building projects. They’re responsible for both aesthetic and technical elements of architecture and work on private and public projects. They create technical drawings that account for design, materials, cost, and safety. Architects also oversee the smooth running of building projects they’re involved with.
The road to becoming an architect is often a long one. You’ll need to complete a five-year degree course before undergoing some on-the-job training, usually for at least two years. You’ll then need to register with both the Hong Kong Institute of Architects (HKIA) and the Architects Registration Board of Hong Kong (ARB).
The average salary for a design architect in Hong Kong is HK$475,994.
4. Insurance Underwriter
Insurance underwriters assess whether or not insurance applications should be accepted or not. They also determine the terms under which an application is accepted. This role requires an understanding of risk, as well as the various types of insurance. Underwriters work closely with other finance professionals, such as actuaries and brokers. Given the depth of knowledge needed, it’s one of the best-paying jobs in Hong Kong.
Although there aren’t any specific qualifications you need, a degree in an area such as maths, business, finance or economics is generally preferred. After getting your qualification, you’ll have to spend a few years training under an experienced underwriter. You’ll also need excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
The average salary for an underwriter in Hong Kong is HK$461,299.
5. Doctor
Family doctors in Hong Kong are responsible for providing comprehensive primary care to the community. They assess and diagnose patients, prescribe medication, and coordinate care with other medical professionals. The Medical Council of Hong Kong is very strict about who can practice medicine in the country, making this one of the best-paying jobs in Hong Kong.
There are two main medical; training faculties in Hong Kong, each offering six-year programs in medicine. You’ll need to complete such a course before taking on an internship in a hospital, where you’ll work across four different areas. You’ll then need to register with the Medical Council of Hong Kong.
The average salary for a doctor (GP) in Hong Kong is HK$1,000,000.
6. HR Manager
HR managers are at the center of human resources departments. They oversee the various functions and tasks these teams perform, such as creating job descriptions, analyzing surveys, developing hiring strategies, and planning personnel budgets. It’s a crucial role in any business, connecting the various departments and ensuring the overall well-being of employees.
The best place to start on your way to becoming an HR manager is a bachelor’s degree in either human resources management or business administration. From here, a master’s degree can also be useful. However, experience is vital, as you’ll need to understand various areas of a business. You might also consider certification with a professional body.
The average salary for an HR manager in Hong Kong is HK$499,738.
7. Project Manager
Project managers have a lot of responsibility when it comes to projects. They have to ensure the planning, execution, documentation, and overall delivery all go according to plan. No matter what the industry is, project managers follow similar strategies to do their jobs, coordinating with all major internal and external stakeholders. It’s a role with a lot of responsibility, which is why it’s one of the best-paying jobs in Hong Kong.
You’ll need a range of skills, qualifications, and experience to become a project manager. A good place to start is with a degree in a field that’s relevant to the one you wish to enter. Business qualifications are also useful, as is experience in the industry you plan on working in.
The average salary for an IT project manager in Hong Kong is HK$588,634.
8. Pharmacist
Pharmacists play a crucial role in the healthcare industry. They’re responsible for ensuring the quality of medicines patients receive, making sure they’re of a high standard and suitable for patients. They also advise on the use of various medications. Often, pharmacists will specialize in a particular area, such as retail pharmacies, pharmaceutical production, or primary care facilities.
Due to the level of specialization needed to become a pharmacist, you’ll have to undergo a fair amount of training. This starts with a pharmacy degree, which usually lasts for at least four years. From there, you’ll have to undergo training from the Pharmacy & Poisons Board of Hong Kong, which usually lasts one year. The average salary for a pharmacist in Hong Kong is HK$532,000.
9. Finance
Every business has one financial analyst or a team that oversees the finances. With a financial degree, you can earn very high in Hong Kong. You will learn how to manage money as well as a balanced account. By 2026, the field is expected to grow by 26% for financial managers and 11% for financial analysts. Usually, you will need to start with a degree in financially related fields. Then, you can proceed to an internship or take up an entry-level role. Some firms might require that you register with the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
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10. Mathematics
Mathematics graduates are hotcakes in the employment world. They have great chances of being employed after graduation. As such, they earn pretty high salaries. Their roles are usually very beneficial to the IT or financial industries.
As a maths graduate, you could also choose to teach after graduation. Math teachers are in high demand in Hong Kong. So, if you did not find yourself in the IT or financial sector, you could try the education sector. Chances are you could build an enviable career as a teacher. Nothing gives joy like teaching the country future mathematicians, scientists, engineers, physicists, and so on. It also gives fulfillment.
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Why You Should Work in Hong Kong
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For decades, working and living in Hong Kong has been attractive amongst those seeking new challenges overseas. The cityscape is mesmerizing in itself; the stunning backdrop of skyscrapers combined with the rustic buildings of the 1960s gives Hong Kong its unique and fascinating character.
1. Career prospects
Hong Kong is the gateway to China. It’s the country’s financial center and business hub; a super connector for global businesses interested in trading with China. Not only does Hong Kong present a wealth of opportunities, but it also offers an exceptional lifestyle and extraordinary career progression. Career prospects (coupled with pay) continue to be the top two engagement drivers in the Asia Pacific. The opportunity to advance your career is much greater in Asia compared to other parts of the world. For example, within the legal sector, the average age of a partner is four years younger than those in London. Hong Kong businesses in particular also tend to have a flexible, yet clearly defined career path for employees. There are also greater opportunities for short-term assignments and potential future geographic transfers. If you’re ambitious, competitive, and hard-working, Hong Kong could be the city for you.
2. Earning potential
In September 2015, HSBC reported that expats in Hong Kong have the best career progression and the greatest earning potential with 30 percent earning more than USD200,000 per annum compared with 13 percent of expats globally. Hong Kong is a strong economic destination and is particularly popular for those working in Financial Services. The average earning for expats in Hong Kong is USD176,000 per annum, around USD70,000 more than the global average!
3. Convenience
Hong Kong has an extremely modern and functional transport system. Fancy jet setting to Vietnam in just an hour and a half for a long weekend away? From the international airport, you can catch a flight to a multitude of destinations in a short amount of time. There is a massive subway system and taxis are relatively cheap. Wherever you need to go at whatever time of day, you’ll never be stuck for options with Hong Kong’s efficient transport network. Alongside this, the convenience of being able to get whatever you want whenever you want in such a dynamic, 24/7 city is a massive plus point. You can also get a variety of food delivered at all hours of the day, on-demand. Bonus!
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4. Networking opportunities
If you’re a professional living and working in Hong Kong, then you will probably spend much of your time networking. It’s one of the easiest and best ways to get new business, discover potential opportunities, and develop lasting professional and personal relationships with like-minded individuals. What’s more, the great exposure to the c-suite professional is one of the great benefits to businesses in Hong Kong; the expat communities in Asia have a much closer bond with business leaders so meeting key decision-makers and potential clients is a given.
Here we have them- the Top exciting careers to pursue in Hong Kong, we hope the information we have shared will help you make the right choice.
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