Starting out in the professional world can feel daunting, but the right entry-level job can set the foundation for a successful career. An entry-level job is typically defined as a position that requires minimal professional work experience and is designed to help you gain experience, develop skills, and build a network in a specific industry. These jobs are often the first step for recent graduates or individuals transitioning into a new career path and usually offer on-the-job training and support, making them suitable for those who are just starting out.
However, there is a growing trend where some entry-level positions list requirements for two or more years of experience. This can be confusing and frustrating for job seekers who are just starting out in their careers, but there are strategies for landing a role with little to no experience.
Whether you're aiming for a high-paying position, a role with little required experience, or something that aligns with your long-term goals, there's a perfect entry-level job for you. Here's a comprehensive guide to some of the best entry-level jobs available, along with tips to help you secure that first role.
High-paying entry-level jobs
1. Software developer
Average entry-level salary: $68,041 per year
An entry-level software developer is responsible for designing, coding, testing, and maintaining software applications under the guidance of senior developers and managers. Typically, entry-level developers write code for software applications using programming languages such as Java, Python, C++, or JavaScript, and identify and fix bugs in the software.
A bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field is often required. Some positions may accept candidates with equivalent experience or certifications from coding bootcamps. Understanding the basics of data structures, algorithms, and object-oriented programming is also important.
2. Financial analyst
Average entry-level salary: $60,654 per year
Entry-level financial analysts play a pivotal role in supporting financial decision-making through detailed data analysis, modeling, and reporting. Analysts conduct market research to understand economic conditions, industry trends, and competitive dynamics and prepare financial reports and presentations on performance metrics, variance analyses, and recommendations for senior management.
A bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, accounting, or a related field is typically required. Some positions may also consider candidates with degrees in mathematics, statistics, or business administration. Strong analytical skills and experience with financial modeling software are beneficial, and internships in finance can enhance your qualifications.
3. Data analyst
Average entry-level salary: $60,015 per year
Entry-level data analysts collect and clean data to ensure accuracy and consistency. Data analysts develop models to predict future trends and typically are responsible for creating visual representations like charts and dashboards to present their findings to other departments, such as IT, marketing, finance, and operations, to understand their data needs and provide relevant insights.
To apply, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in data science, statistics, mathematics, computer science, or a related field. Proficiency in statistical methods, analytical techniques, and programming languages like Python or R (as well as SQL for database management) is essential. Familiarity with data analysis tools such as Excel, Tableau, or Power BI is also important.
4. Marketing manager
Average entry-level salary: $51,948 per year
An entry-level marketing manager supports the creation and implementation of marketing campaigns across various channels, including digital, social media, print, and events. They conduct market research to understand consumer behavior, market trends, and competitor activities, providing insights to shape marketing strategies. Their day-to-day tasks might involve coordinating with clients, creating marketing materials, tracking budgets, and monitoring and analyzing campaign performance.
Creativity, project management skills, and attention to detail are essential for developing compelling marketing content and ensuring brand consistency. A bachelor’s degree in marketing, business administration, communications, or a related field is typically required for an entry-level marketing manager position.
5. Investment associate
Average entry-level salary: $71,018 per year
Investment associates support investment management and financial advisory teams by conducting research, analyzing financial data, and assisting with client relations. They often assist in preparing detailed financial reports and presentations that provide insights and recommendations for investment strategies. This entry-level role provides a solid foundation in finance, helping new professionals develop the skills necessary for a successful career in investment management.
You’ll need a bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, business administration, or another related field, as well as strong analytical skills, communication skills, knowledge of financial markets, and proficiency in financial analysis tools and software, such as Excel, Bloomberg, or financial modeling software. Having relevant internships or certifications, such as the CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) Level I, can greatly enhance your job prospects.
Entry-level jobs that don’t require previous experience
6. Customer service representative
Average entry-level salary: $39,796 per year
Customer service representatives handle incoming customer inquiries via phone, email, chat, or social media and provide information about products or services, answer questions, and guide customers through troubleshooting processes.
Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required for an entry-level customer service representative position. Strong problem-solving and communication skills are essential for effectively interacting with customers and resolving issues, but many employers provide on-the-job training, making it an accessible job for those with little prior experience.
7. Administrative assistant
Average entry-level salary: $40,253 per year
An administrative assistant supports office operations by performing a variety of administrative tasks, such as managing schedules, organizing meetings, handling correspondence, and assisting with data entry and file management to ensure office activities run smoothly and efficiently. The role typically involves answering phones, greeting visitors, and providing general clerical support to senior staff and departments.
A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, along with good organizational skills. Basic computer proficiency and previous office experience can be beneficial but are not always necessary.
8. Sales associate
Average entry-level salary: $45,639 per year
Sales associates are responsible for generating leads, reaching out to potential customers, and promoting products or services to meet sales targets. They engage with clients through calls, emails, or in-person meetings, providing information about products, addressing customer inquiries, and identifying their needs.
A high school diploma and strong communication skills, a persuasive attitude, and an understanding of the company’s offerings are essential for success in this role. On-the-job training is common, and previous sales experience can be helpful but not mandatory.
9. Retail associate
Average entry-level salary: $29,302 per year
Retail associates assist customers, manage inventory, and handle transactions in stores. They handle transactions at the checkout, process returns or exchanges, and ensure that the sales floor is well-stocked and neatly arranged. They may also assist with restocking shelves, organizing displays, and managing inventory.
This job usually requires a high school diploma and excellent customer service skills. Attention to detail and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment are crucial for success in this role. Many retail positions provide on-the-job training, making them suitable for those with little experience.
10. Warehouse worker
Average entry-level salary: $33,338 per year
Warehouse workers are responsible for supporting the efficient operation of a warehouse. Their duties typically include receiving and inspecting incoming shipments, sorting and organizing inventory, and preparing orders for shipping. They may also operate forklifts or other equipment to move and stack goods.
A high school diploma is typically required, along with the ability to lift heavy objects and work in a fast-paced environment. Specific educational qualifications are usually minimal, as on-the-job training is often provided. Some employers may also prefer candidates who have completed vocational training or certification in areas such as forklift operation or safety procedures.
Entry-level jobs with career growth potential
11. Human resources assistant
Average entry-level salary: $41,748 per year
Human resources assistants support HR departments by maintaining employee records, assisting with recruitment, and handling payroll. This experience lays a solid foundation for advancing to specialized or senior HR positions. Plus, the skills developed are in high demand and transferable across industries, while networking opportunities and exposure to multiple HR areas further enhance career prospects.
A bachelor’s degree in human resources or a related field is often preferred and strong organizational skills and experience with HR software like Workday or Gusto can be beneficial.
12. Paralegal
Average entry-level salary: $42,688 per year
Paralegals assist lawyers by conducting research, drafting documents, and managing case files. They can specialize in areas like corporate law, litigation, or intellectual property and have opportunities for advancement into senior positions, such as paralegal supervisors or legal consultants.
To become a paralegal, a minimum of an associate’s degree in paralegal studies or a related field is typically required. Many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies, legal studies, or a related discipline. Obtaining a paralegal certification from a recognized professional organization, such as the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) or the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA), can enhance your competitiveness.
13. Graphic designer
Average entry-level salary: $42,863 per year
Graphic designers create visual content for websites, advertisements, and other media. This role provides preliminary skills in design principles, software, and creativity—which are essential as they progress to more specialized areas, such as web design, user experience (UX), or multimedia. They can progress into more advanced roles including senior graphic designer, art director, creative director, UX designer, multimedia designer, and even positions like chief design officer or other leadership roles within creative and marketing departments.
A degree in graphic design or a related field is often required, along with proficiency in design software like Adobe Creative Suite. A strong portfolio and internships can enhance job prospects.
14. Public relations assistant
Average entry-level salary: $39,026 per year
A public relations (PR) assistant supports PR teams by handling tasks such as drafting press releases, managing media lists, monitoring media coverage, and coordinating events. They help maintain the organization's public image by assisting with social media content, responding to media inquiries, and performing administrative duties.
Typically, a PR assistant needs a bachelor's degree in public relations, communications, journalism, or a related field. With experience, PR assistants can advance to roles such as PR specialist, communications manager, or PR director, and eventually, they can aspire to positions like vice president of communications or chief communications officer.
15. Social media coordinator
Average entry-level salary: $39,808 per year
Social media coordinators manage and curate content across various social media platforms, engage with followers, analyze social media metrics, and implement strategies to increase brand awareness and engagement. They often collaborate with marketing and creative teams to ensure consistent messaging and branding.
Typically, a social media coordinator needs a bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, public relations, or a related field. Experience with social media tools and strategies, often gained through internships or personal projects, is important. With experience, they can advance to roles such as social media manager, digital marketing manager, or social media strategist, and eventually to positions like director of social media or chief marketing officer.
5 tips for getting an entry-level job
Securing an entry-level job can be challenging, especially when you’re just beginning your career and may not have extensive experience. However, with the right approach and strategies, you can enhance your chances of landing a role that sets the foundation for your professional journey. Here are a few steps you can take to stand out to potential employers and kickstart your career.
1. Tailor your resume and cover letter
Customize your resume and cover letter for each job application to highlight relevant skills and experiences. Make sure to incorporate keywords from the job posting into the resume to pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and catch the recruiter’s attention.
Highlight any internships, part-time jobs, coursework, certifications, academic achievements, or volunteer work that are relevant to the role. These experiences often count toward the "years of experience" requirement. Emphasize transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving that are valuable across various industries.
Read more: Resume Samples Inside! Your Guide to Navigating Resume Types & Choosing the Right One for You
2. Use your network
Leverage your network by reaching out to professors, connecting with alumni from your educational institutions, attending industry events, and joining professional associations to meet people in your desired field. Friends, family, and previous internship supervisors are valuable resources for job leads and introductions, and don’t be afraid to use LinkedIn to engage with industry professionals and participate in networking groups.
Read more: How to Genuinely Reconnect with Your Network: 10 Email Templates
3. Build a strong online presence
A strong online presence can help make you more marketable and attract recruiters, even if you don’t have years of experience yet. When you’re applying to entry-level jobs, create a portfolio and clean up your social media accounts. Showcase any academic projects, internships, freelance work, or personal projects relevant to your field and include detailed descriptions, visuals, and outcomes of your work. Start building a professional brand by creating a polished LinkedIn profile, sharing industry-relevant content, engaging with professional communities, and seeking endorsements and recommendations from professors and colleagues.
4. Create a schedule for job searching
Dedicate time to job searching, resume updating, and applying for positions to stay organized and motivated. Set daily or weekly goals and allocate specific time blocks for various activities. For example, you could dedicate 50-60% of your time to networking and applying for jobs, 20-30% for professional development (i.e. learning new skills, working on passion projects, building a portfolio, etc.), and 10-20% for self-care activities like exercise, hobbies, and relaxation to maintain mental and emotional well-being. Balancing these activities ensures a comprehensive and sustainable job search strategy.
Read more: 3 Essentials to Practicing Self-Care During Your Job Search
5. Prepare for interviews
Prepare for interviews by researching companies, practicing common interview questions, and understanding how your skills and experiences align with the job requirements. Be ready to highlight transferable skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, by providing specific examples from their internships, coursework, or part-time jobs. Emphasizing how these experiences have prepared you for the role can demonstrate your suitability despite limited professional experience. Preparing thoughtful questions for the interviewer and practicing clear, concise responses can enhance your confidence and presentation during the interview.
Read more: 8 Effective & Memorable Ways to Introduce Yourself Professionally (with Examples)
