25 best paying entry-level jobs for a brighter future
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Starting a career is one of life’s most exciting and challenging moments. Finding the right job means more than earning a paycheck — it’s about laying the groundwork for a successful and fulfilling future. Although entry-level jobs are often seen as starting points, the reality is often quite different. Many entry-level roles offer competitive salaries and potential paths for growth and advancement.
From cutting-edge tech positions to fulfilling healthcare roles, these jobs span a variety of industries and skill sets.
Note: The salaries and salary ranges below are based on available data as of the publication date and are subject to change.
1. Software developer
Average salary: $100,265/year
Skills: Coding (Python, JavaScript, C++), problem-solving, teamwork
How to land it:
Learn programming through online platforms like Codecademy or freeCodeCamp.
Build small projects to showcase your skills, like websites or mobile apps.
Gain experience through internships at tech startups or established firms.
Create a GitHub profile to display your projects and coding knowledge.
A degree in computer science helps, though many companies prioritize portfolios over formal education.
Why it matters: Software developers create tools and applications many of us use daily. This career offers high demand and numerous opportunities to specialize in areas like AI, mobile development, or cloud computing.
2. Data analyst
Average salary: $68,487/year
Skills: Excel, SQL, Tableau, and Python for data cleaning and analysis
How to land it:
Complete an online certification, such as the Google Data Analytics Certificate.
Build a portfolio of projects analyzing datasets (e.g., sports statistics or public health trends) and publish your findings on Medium or GitHub.
Network on LinkedIn and join data-focused groups to find mentors and job leads.
Learn data visualization tools like Tableau and Power BI to create compelling presentations.
Why it matters: Businesses rely on data to make strategic decisions. Analysts are critical for interpreting trends, offering actionable insights, and transitioning into roles like data scientist or business intelligence specialist.
3. Financial analyst
Average salary: $57,761/year
Skills: Financial modeling, Excel, analytical thinking, SQL, Tableau
How to land it:
Earn a degree in finance, economics, or accounting.
Gain practical experience through internships at banks, investment firms, or corporate finance departments.
Pursue certifications like CFA Level I to demonstrate your expertise.
Build spreadsheet and database proficiency, including pivot tables, financial modeling, and advanced formulas.
Why it matters: Financial analysts provide insights that help companies allocate resources, manage budgets, and plan investments. This role builds a strong foundation for careers in investment banking or corporate strategy.
4. Registered nurse (RN)
Average salary: $64,108/year
Skills: Patient care, critical thinking, empathy
How to land it:
Complete an accredited nursing program (Associate Degree in Nursing or Bachelor of Science in Nursing).
Pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain your license.
Volunteer or work in healthcare settings to gain experience and connections.
Apply to residency programs that provide mentorship and hands-on training for new nurses.
Why it matters: Nursing is a fulfilling and stable career with opportunities to specialize in areas like pediatrics, oncology, or administration. The healthcare field consistently offers high demand and job security.
5. Marketing coordinator
Average salary: $53,804/year
Skills: Content creation, analytics, SEO
How to land it:
Earn a degree in marketing, communications, or business.
Gain experience through internships at marketing agencies or in-house teams.
Learn SEO basics, Google Analytics, and social media tools like Hootsuite.
Build a portfolio showcasing successful campaigns or creative projects.
Why it matters: Marketing coordinators play a key role in brand strategy and campaign execution. These positions offer exposure to various facets of marketing, helping you identify areas to specialize in.
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6. UX designer
Average salary: $106,224/year
Skills: Wireframing, prototyping (Figma, Sketch), user research
How to land it:
Enroll in boot camps like Designlab or General Assembly to gain hands-on experience and mentorship.
Volunteer to redesign websites or apps for small businesses or nonprofits.
Create a case study-driven portfolio showcasing your design process and problem-solving skills.
Join design communities on LinkedIn or Behance to network and stay updated on trends.
Why it matters: UX designers shape user experiences, making this role critical for companies prioritizing customer satisfaction and digital innovation.
7. Business analyst
Average salary: $80,350/year
Skills: Process mapping, stakeholder communication, data analysis
How to land it:
Gain experience with software like Microsoft Visio or Tableau.
Pursue internships in IT, operations, or project management to learn about business workflows.
Certifications such as CBAP (Certified Business Analysis Professional) can give you an edge.
Build strong communication skills to bridge the gap between technical teams and business stakeholders effectively.
Why it matters: Business analysts ensure that technical solutions meet business needs, driving efficient workflows and better decision-making processes.
8. Cloud engineer
Average salary: $130,802/year
Skills: AWS, Azure, Linux, networking
How to land it:
Start with certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate.
Gain hands-on experience with cloud platforms by hosting personal projects or contributing to open-source initiatives.
Build your understanding of networking and security basics to manage cloud infrastructures better.
Why it matters: As businesses increasingly rely on cloud technology, skilled cloud engineers are essential for managing infrastructure and ensuring scalability.
9. Technical sales representative
Average salary: $72,474/year
Skills: Communication, negotiation, CRM tools
How to land it:
Intern at tech companies to gain product knowledge and sales techniques.
Develop sales pitch skills through training programs or online courses.
Master CRM tools like Salesforce to manage leads effectively.
Why it matters: Tech sales offers lucrative opportunities for high earnings through commissions and a path to leadership roles in account management or sales strategy.
10. Physician assistant (PA)
Average salary: $47,831/year
Skills: Medical knowledge, patient care, diagnostics
How to land it:
Complete a master’s program accredited by ARC-PA and pass the PANCE certification exam.
Gain clinical experience by volunteering or shadowing PAs.
Network with healthcare professionals to find job opportunities in hospitals or clinics.
Why it matters: PAs provide essential medical care in a variety of settings, often working collaboratively with doctors to improve patient outcomes.
11. Web developer
Average salary: $94,149/year
Skills: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, debugging
How to land it:
Build a portfolio with personal projects or freelance work for small businesses.
Complete a coding boot camp to develop technical skills quickly.
Learn version control systems like Git and hosting services like Netlify or Vercel.
Why it matters: Web developers create and maintain websites that form the backbone of the digital economy, offering ample job opportunities.
12. Cybersecurity analyst
Average salary: $99,400/year
Skills: Networking, ethical hacking, threat analysis
How to land it:
Start with certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Certified Ethical Hacker(CEH).
Develop foundational knowledge of network security and threat detection.
Gain hands-on experience by participating in cybersecurity competitions like Capture the Flag (CTF).
Why it matters: With the rise in cyber threats, analysts play a vital role in protecting sensitive data and ensuring organizational security.
13. Product manager
Average salary: $159,405/year
Skills: Roadmap planning, stakeholder management, Agile methodologies
How to land it:
Work as a project coordinator or in a related role to gain experience with product lifecycles.
Learn Agile and Scrum principles through certifications or workshops.
Build strong cross-functional communication skills to align team efforts with business goals.
Why it matters: Product managers oversee the development of products that meet market needs, making them integral to business success.
14. Digital marketing specialist
Average salary: $65,418/year
Skills: SEO, PPC, Google Analytics
How to land it:
Earn certifications in Google Ads or HubSpot Marketing.
Build a portfolio demonstrating your ability to increase engagement or manage ad campaigns.
Stay current on industry trends by following thought leaders and participating in webinars.
Why it matters: Digital marketing specialists drive online visibility and revenue growth, which are essential for modern businesses.
15. AI/ML engineer
Average salary: $69,362/year
Skills: Machine learning algorithms, Python, TensorFlow
How to land it:
Gain a solid foundation in programming and mathematics, including linear algebra and statistics.
Build projects that apply machine learning to real-world problems, such as image recognition or predictive modeling.
Pursue certifications in AI/ML offered by platforms like Coursera or edX.
Why it matters: AI/ML engineers design intelligent systems that power advancements in automation, healthcare, and more.
16. Mechanical engineer
Average salary: $69,055/year
Skills: CAD software, thermodynamics, problem-solving
How to land it:
Earn a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.
Gain hands-on experience with CAD tools like SolidWorks or AutoCAD.
Intern at engineering firms to work on real-world projects.
Why it matters: Mechanical engineers design and improve machines and devices, playing a vital role in industries like automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing.
17. Logistics coordinator
Average salary: $42,964/year
Skills: Supply chain management, communication, organization
How to land it:
Pursue a degree in supply chain management or business.
Intern at logistics companies to learn operational workflows.
Master inventory software like SAP or Oracle ERP systems.
Why it matters: Logistics coordinators ensure products are delivered efficiently, keeping the supply chain running smoothly.
18. Content writer
Average salary: $84,151/year
Skills: Writing, editing, SEO
How to land it:
Start freelancing to build your portfolio and gain experience.
Learn SEO basics and incorporate keywords into your writing effectively.
Showcase published articles or blogs to demonstrate your skills.
Why it matters: Content writers help brands engage audiences and build credibility through compelling storytelling.
19. Human resources specialist
Average salary: $73,918/year
Skills: Recruitment, onboarding, conflict resolution
How to land it:
Obtain a degree in HR, business, or psychology.
Gain experience through internships in HR departments.
Learn HR software like Workday or BambooHR to streamline processes.
Why it matters: HR specialists are pivotal in fostering a productive and inclusive workplace.
20. Environmental scientist
Average salary: $84,123/year
Skills: Research, sustainability knowledge, data analysis
How to land it:
Complete a degree in environmental science or biology.
Intern at environmental agencies or non-profits to gain field experience.
Develop expertise in tools like GIS for spatial data analysis.
Why it matters: Environmental scientists tackle pressing issues like climate change and conservation, helping to protect the planet.
21. Customer success manager
Average salary: $83,064/year
Skills: CRM tools, communication, relationship management
How to land it:
Work in client-facing roles to develop interpersonal skills.
Master tools like Salesforce and HubSpot to manage customer relationships effectively.
Highlight examples of how you’ve solved customer issues or improved retention.
Why it matters: CSMs ensure customers derive value from products, building loyalty and reducing churn.
22. Electrical engineer
Average salary: $86,381/year
Skills: Circuit design, embedded systems, troubleshooting
How to land it:
Earn a degree in electrical engineering.
Intern with companies specializing in electronics or renewable energy.
Gain certification in systems like PLC or energy-efficient technologies.
Why it matters: Electrical engineers power innovation in areas like robotics, energy, and telecommunications.
23. Social media manager
Average salary: $54,455/year
Skills: Content planning, analytics, creativity
How to land it:
Manage accounts for small businesses or non-profits to showcase your skills.
Learn tools like Hootsuite or Sprout Social for efficient scheduling and reporting.
Stay current on platform trends to create engaging campaigns.
Why it matters: Social media managers drive engagement and brand visibility in the digital age.
24. Investment banking analyst
Average salary: $96,134/year
Skills: Financial modeling, Excel, presentations
How to land it:
Intern at financial institutions to build your network and gain experience.
Master DCF modeling and PowerPoint for creating pitch decks.
Build relationships with alumni in the banking industry for referrals.
Why it matters: Analysts play a crucial role in facilitating deals and shaping business financial strategies.
25. Paralegal
Average salary: $49,343/year
Skills: Legal research, drafting, organization
How to land it:
Complete a paralegal certification program.
Gain experience through internships at law firms or legal departments.
Develop proficiency with tools like LexisNexis or Clio for research and case management.
Why it matters: Paralegals support attorneys in managing cases efficiently, playing a key role in the legal process.
Note: Salary ranges mentioned in this article are estimates based on industry reports and may vary significantly depending on geographic location, company size, industry demand, and individual qualifications. Always research specific roles and regions to get the most accurate information.
Beyond the paycheck: Strategies for early career success
Starting a career is about more than just the paycheck. To truly thrive in your first role, consider these four key strategies:
Invest in learning: Platforms like LinkedIn Learning or Coursera offer industry-specific courses that can enhance your skills and make you stand out at work. Upskilling early can fast-track your growth.
Build a strong network: Attend local events, join professional groups, or connect on LinkedIn to meet industry professionals. Strong relationships can open doors to mentorships, job referrals, and career advice.
Seek feedback: Regularly ask your manager and colleagues for constructive feedback. This not only helps you grow but also demonstrates your commitment to self-improvement.
Stay curious: Explore opportunities within your company to learn about different roles or departments. Understanding the bigger picture can prepare you for leadership positions down the line.
Your first job sets the tone for your career and financial journey. By intentionally building relevant skills, networking with professionals, and showcasing your strengths, you can land a well-paying entry-level job that positions you for long-term success.
Set your family up for career and financial success
Your first paycheck is a milestone. Whether saving for big goals, building an emergency fund, or learning to manage expenses, tools like Greenlight can help your family earn, save, and grow together.
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This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.
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