Information technology is a field with endless opportunities for tech graduates of all levels.
We did a quick Google search and these are the questions we found people are asking on the internet:
- What are the best entry-level IT jobs?
- How do I get a tech job with little or no experience?
- How much do entry-level IT graduates make?
As you can see, there are many people out there wanting to know what the best entry-level tech jobs are and how they can get them and that’s why we have decided to put together this guide to landing 8 of the best entry-level IT jobs to answer all these questions asked by job seekers out there.
Note that even though we call them entry-level IT jobs, they also require some qualifications or certifications to get hired fast.
We will also talk about what is required to get each entry-level job we talk about below.
At the end of this article, we will share tips to help you land entry-level tech jobs.
But first…
What is an entry-level job?
An entry-level job is a position for new graduates who don’t have much work experience in that sector. The good thing about entry-level jobs is that they offer training to prepare you for success in your career.
What do employers look for in entry-level employees?
Some employers will provide training programs to recruits to show them how to undertake their day to day responsibilities while others expect candidates to have some specific technical skills.
If you are interested in entry-level jobs, you must be ready to adapt, grow, and learn.
Having said that, let’s take a look at the 8 of the best entry-level IT jobs
8 Best Entry-Level IT Jobs
To build a successful career in technology, you will have to start with some good entry-level IT jobs. There are plenty of tech jobs and companies wanting to hire fresh graduates out there and it can be challenging to know which entry-level tech job to take.
Here are 8 of the best IT jobs to kick start your tech career.
1: Desktop Support Technician
As the name suggests, a desktop support technician is a person who checks on the company’s computers to ensure that any problem arising is solved before it affects the company’s operations.
Your role as a desktop support technician is to troubleshoot and discover the problem then solve it or forward it to another person in the IT department.
Main roles include troubleshooting network and wireless issues, configuring and testing, creating user accounts, formatting and installing Windows on desktop and laptop computers, etc.
To qualify for this job, you need a bachelor’s degree in IT, computer science or information systems management. Some employers will require a high school diploma or an IT certification.
Salary: Average Pay $42,983/yr. (Glassdoor)
2: IT Support Specialist
IT support specialist is also one of the best entry-level IT jobs out there. In this job, you will be tasked with setting up software and technologies, installing, and troubleshooting issues.
You will also be tasked with upgrading and maintaining all company hardware and software. Some companies also use smartphones and tablets or notebooks; you will also make sure they are all in good working condition.
Usually, you will be helping customers by training them, offering solutions to them and troubleshooting hardware for them in case of anything. For this reason, you need to have strong communication skills.
To qualify for this entry-level IT job, you need to have some previous technical experience or a high school diploma in IT. Some companies will require you to have a college degree.
Salary: Average Pay $49,136/yr. (PayScale)
3: IT Support Analyst
Please don’t get confused. The IT support specialist and IT support analyst are two different jobs.
An IT support analyst will be tasked with analyzing and improving technologies, planning, foreseeing any future problem and making sure measures are put in place to keep the organization’s systems working properly.
To take this job, you need to have strong analytical skills and ample knowledge of hardware, software, and systems.
To qualify for this job, you must have a bachelor’s degree in information technology or related field. Some companies will require you to have a master’s in business administration in addition to a degree in information technology.
Salary: Average Base Pay $48,563/yr. (Glassdoor)
4: Web Developer
A web developer is tasked with the creation of websites, keeping them functional and with good speeds and in line with the organization’s mission and vision.
Given that these days people are accessing websites on small screens and large screens, a web developer needs to have knowledge in design and usability to create an attractive organization’s website.
As a web developer, you will also be working with other IT professionals to assimilate other applications into websites and also solve any website-related issues.
To qualify for this position, you need to have an understanding of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. You also need to have some knowledge of testing procedures.
Salary: Average Pay $69,038/yr. (CareerExplorer)
5: Network Administrator
A network administrator is tasked with recommending, installing, and keeping networks in working conditions. As a network administrator, your role is to troubleshoot and resolve network issues. You will also evaluate dangers to networks and launch security protocols.
To qualify for this position, you need to hold an associate’s-degree in information technology or related field.
Salary: Average Pay $58,690/yr. (PayScale)
6: PC Technician
If you can disassemble a machine and assemble it again, then a PC technician job can be suitable for you.
Usually, a PC technician will wear many hats. The good thing about this entry-level IT job is that you can work independently, for a company or start your own computer repair shop.
The main roles of a PC technician include installing hardware and software, diagnosing issues and doing repairs, etc.
To qualify for this position, you need strong knowledge in PC hardware, Windows, networking and you must be a quick learner. You can also take a CompTIA A+ Technician certificate to boost your skills.
Salary: Average Pay $55,260 -$86,034/yr. (ComputerCareers)
7: Software Developer
Companies are always looking for ways to serve their customers conveniently and faster. One of the best ways companies are helping customers to do things fast is by developing apps that enable customers to do almost everything on their smartphones at the comfort of their couches.
As a software developer, you will be tasked with developing applications using compiled languages such as C++, fix bugs and deploy software. You will also supervise the software development team throughout the development cycle.
To land this IT position, you need an IT degree or related experience.
Salary: Average Base Pay $73,723/yr. (Glassdoor)
8: Technical Writer
If you have ever bought a digital product or used the service of a particular company with the help of a user’s manual, then know that it was written by a technical writer.
A technical writer is tasked with compiling documentation of the company’s products or services and answering online FAQs.
Well, this isn’t an IT position per se although it can be a good starting point for people wanting to pursue a career in tech.
To qualify for this position, you need to be a creative writer, possess strong communication skills, have an analytical mindset, and be able to make complicated matters look simple matters in their eyes of a user.
Salary: Average Pay $69,718/yr. (ZipRecruiter)
9: Business/Systems Analyst
A business or systems analyst acts as a gap between businesses and systems. What does this mean?
A business or systems analyst will communicate complex business terms related to IT to business owners, shareholders, associates, and partners and recommend the right way to get things done.
As a business analyst, you will be collaborating with the organization’s staff and management to assess the IT needs, evaluate emerging technology and review options to ensure information processing runs smoothly.
Salary: Average Pay $87,358/yr. (indeed.com)
How to Land the Best Entry-Level IT Jobs
The IT field is a thriving field that everyone is yarning to get into it. If you are looking for an entry-level IT job, then here are tips to increase your chances of landing your job fast.
Get Industry Certified
IT certifications can open the doors to a successful career in information technology. Remember that a tech degree may take you years before you get it but it takes a few weeks or months to get an IT certification.
Some of the entry-level IT certifications you should take include Network+, CompTIA A+, Security+, etc.
The good thing about entry-level IT certifications is that you can get them by studying online and taking a certification exam, or joining a college that offers these certifications.
There are plenty of online courses out there offered by experts with real-world experience who are ready to help you in case you are stuck.
Network
Building connections is crucial with looking for any job. These days, employers are interested in hiring someone they have been recommended, than strangers.
Social media networks, particularly LinkedIn can be a good place to build connections.
Just let people in your connections know that you are looking for a tech or you want to get into tech and they will help you out.
Learn Tech Skills
There are plenty of skills you can learn when it comes to technology that can improve your resume. The best part?
You don’t have to enroll yourself in a college or university to learn most of these tech skills. YouTube is a good place to learn tech skills without paying a dime.
Go to YouTube, search for videos about hardware and software. Learn how to install Windows, how to work with Windows, how to format a computer, etc.
Showcase Your Qualifications
Once you have obtained your entry-level IT certifications, you have taught yourself relevant skills, and you have built a strong network, it’s time to show them that you have what it takes to get an entry-level IT job.
LinkedIn is the best place to do that. Fill all the areas in your LinkedIn profile including everything you’ve learned-tech-related.
The good thing about LinkedIn is that you can tell when your profile is completely done.
You can also showcase your skills by building a personal website. And this is especially important if you are looking for a web developer job. Design an attractive website, share your experience in a customized portfolio and start hunting for these jobs.
Final Thoughts
When looking for a job in tech, it can be frustrating especially if you take a look at the experience requirements most companies are looking for.
It’s not too late. If you don’t have the experience, just work on beefing up your skillset and then build your personal branding to showcase what you can deliver.
We hope our article will help you to know what the best entry-level IT jobs and how to land them.
Good Luck!!