http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/2009/may/14may09_nr/14may09_fs3.html
With the transformation to the 3rd Generation Singapore Armed
Forces (SAF), there is a greater need for personnel to possess deep
professional expertise in key military domains. The new Military
Domain Experts Scheme (MDES) is designed to recruit, groom, and
retain talent for deep specialisation in engineering, nursing,
intelligence and other areas. The scheme will focus on developing
and retaining the expertise in these military domains to complement
the Officer and Warrant Officer Corps.
Key Features
A Military
Career Scheme till Age 60. MDES is a uniformed scheme for
regulars and designed to allow Military Domain Experts to develop
deep expertise and specialisation. These Military Domain Experts
can enjoy a career up to age 60. The Military Domain Experts will
be deployed in operational roles alongside their Officer and
Warrant Officer counterparts and governed by SAF regimentation
guidelines.
Rank Structure. The Military Domain Experts will have a new
8-rank structure (ME1 to ME8) to cater to different job levels and
skill requirements.
Professional and Academic
Development and Progression. The Military Domain Experts
will also have opportunities to upgrade themselves through
scholarships and sponsorships. Military Domain Experts who are
diploma holders can pursue academic upgrading early in their career
to acquire the necessary academic qualifications and the right
skills for graduate-level jobs.
Remuneration and Transition to MDES. Salaries for the MDES
will be competitive and benchmarked against similar jobs in the
private sector. In-service personnel whose vocations now fall under
the MDES and those who are suitable for MDES will be given the
option to cross over to the new scheme.