Even though I'm not a fresh grad, and my "written amount" of salary is a bit higher than you (my real salary is unstable, and I could tell you my depressing story on this, but I don't need to rant right now).
I feel the similar thing, you can survive with $2K / month, as long as you have a cheap lifestyle. Don't spend too much on unnecessary things.
But what you need to keep in mind is, you also need to think about your future career here in Singapore. If your job as a naval architect is a high demand type of job, then you don't need to worry, your salary will "eventually" be increased as long as you stay competitive.
But, that also doesn't mean that your employer that hired you right now, will increase your salary
. It maybe another employer.
I'm not saying you should leave to another employer, after 3 months or until you get bored within a year.
What I mean is:
- If they put you under contract, stay within the period of contract, after it's over just keep your options open, don't stick too much in one place if it doesn't get you anywhere.
- If you get a permanent position ( I assume you are, since there's a probation period ), then stay until you make at least one achievement there, or at least until you finish your job, whatever it's your job there.
But, if you're happy with your employer, it's not a bad idea to think about long term career.
I'll tell you some bad facts that maybe bitter, but don't make this a reason to be a "brat" in your job. Of course this will depend on the company, and the employer:
- Most of the time, you're nothing more than a "tool" for your superiors, in order for them to get their job done, or in order for them to get their money, with your help.
- If you're a genius, you'll get more respect, but it would also means that you'll have less time for yourself, because you're talented, and they will need you more. If they're rich, then you're lucky. But, if they're not ?
- If you're a mediocre or low performer, then don't expect to get any increase in salary., because even though you "did finish your job", that also doesn't mean that you "did a good job", you might even be surprised someday if someone that you thought never did anything significant, possess a higher salary than you.
Why these bad facts ? Because decisions are not under your control
. Your superiors may not think like you do, no matter who is the smarter, or who is the most experienced in their own fields.
You're just a junior naval architect, if you're a senior architect or a technical director or something, then you can count on your career in that company. But if the company is good, you might have some hope for a better position.
Well good luck.
