Top 20 Highest Paying Entry Level Jobs in 2024
What Are Jobs at Entry Levels?
Whether you are switching careers or have graduated, the job you accept will probably be entry-level.
These jobs frequently have lesser levels of responsibility and experience requirements. Sometimes, you won’t get the role you want but something more likes an assistant role.
But this is just a passing phase.
Other positions will necessitate on-the-job training or supervision by senior staff until you become accustomed to the surroundings.
Your interests, talents, ambitions, level of education, and values will all play a role in determining the perfect entry-level position for you.
Here are some pointers to assist anyone thinking about applying for an entry-level position.
What to Take into Account When Searching for Entry-Level Positions
Because entry-level positions are not always well-paying, it’s vital to consider other factors.
When perusing job postings, take into account:
Additional Compensation to Salary
What are the total benefits offered to employees?
Employee perks in this day and age can include paid lunches, gym memberships or on-site fitness centers, walk-to-work programs, and flexible work schedules.
Your payment amount will be improved by taking those bonuses and incentives into account.
You may learn a lot about a company’s ideals by looking at the employee benefits it provides.
A business that offers generous benefits values its workers. Without, one does not.
Room for Professional Development
Does the job description include any mention of staff training and development?
If not, you should bring it up if you land an interview.
At the start of your career, you want to be able to take advantage of every opportunity; you want employers who will support your goals and promote your development.
Company Culture
Are you looking for a job that allows you to combine work and life, or are you more suited to a fast-paced environment?
You need to work somewhere that shares your beliefs and where you feel free to be yourself if you want to succeed in your career.
How to Locate an Entry-Level Position
The greatest techniques to locate an entry-level job after deciding what you like and dislike are:
In your employment search, include the terms “entry-level” and “growth program.”
Your high school or college career counselor will have information on job fairs and recruitment days.
Network – Participate in networking events, follow recruiters and potential employers on social media, and try to speak with as many people as you can.
Follow up – The next day, send them an email informing them of who you are, thanking them for their time, and briefly outlining your job search.
Utilize the options for internships and work experience while you are a student.
Display your skills – This is particularly effective for creative and communication professions. You can establish a blog discussing your preferred industry. Building effective social profiles is beneficial for copywriting, marketing, and public relations.
Volunteer – Give some of your time to a good cause by offering to take up the duties of your preferred position. Volunteering can enhance resumes for administrative assistants. Those who desire to work in healthcare can also think about volunteering at shelters or nursing homes.
Start assembling your CV; it should always be customized to the job description; however, organizing the style and selecting the most crucial details now will save time later.
Practice your interviewing techniques. The interviewing process can be nerve-wracking no matter your age or level of experience. Spend some time learning about the hiring process, popular interview questions, and how to respond to them. Also, prepare any questions you want to ask so you won’t be caught off guard.
Apply for jobs – All your preparation will be for naught if you don’t submit any applications. Entry-level positions may continue to require at least a year of experience. Do not let that deter you because your knowledge and limited experience might be sufficient.
You will become more accustomed to the application process and more conscious of what you want and don’t want as you apply for more jobs. (Highest Paying Entry Level Jobs)
Top 20 Entry-Level Jobs with the Best Pay
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Junior Web Developer
$54,000 on average
Employment growth: +13 %
A junior web developer is in charge of helping the senior developers create the websites for clients. They are involved in all aspects of creation, including the general layout and functionality.
Before being permitted to construct the primary features of a website, junior developers will first be assigned simpler tasks to work on.
According to statistics, most web developers hold a bachelor’s degree in a field closely related to computer science.
However, many coding classes teach you everything you need to know to develop a website.
Chartered Accountant | IT Manager | Dentist | Software Architect
- Computer Programmer Average salary
$55,036
Job growth rate: -7%
A computer programmer writes mobile applications and computer programs. They update software and improve overall functionality.
As an entry-level programmer, and depending on the company’s size, you may take on an assistant role to help the senior programmer with their work.
At smaller companies, you might be given more responsibility and given higher-value tasks.
The most common route to being a computer programmer is with a bachelor’s in computer science or computer programming. But there are also courses available that teach essential skills such as Java, C#, and JavaScript. (Highest Paying Entry Level Jobs)
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Software Engineer Average salary
$86,536
Job growth rate: +21%
An entry-level software engineer will work alongside mid and senior-level engineers to develop, test, and update software.
They are usually assigned general, routine tasks to familiarize themselves with the tools a software engineer uses.
The most common route is a bachelor’s in computer science, followed by an internship and a certification in their chosen specialization (web development, mobile, embedded systems development) (web development, mobile, embedded systems development). (Highest Paying Entry Level Jobs)
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Real Estate Agent Average salary
$57,162
Job growth rate: +7%
A real estate agent is responsible for the renting, buying, and selling of private and commercial properties.
Real estate agents may work for themselves or an agency or broker. Regardless of their employment status, agents are responsible for their schedules, budgets, marketing, and communications.
Real estate agents also usually receive a commission from all of their sales and rentals.
To become a real estate agent, you need a high school diploma and to sit a real estate license exam.
If you wish to further your career, you can join the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and take courses in the fields and specialties that appeal to you.
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Customer Service Representative Average salary
$45,157
Job growth rate: -2%
Depending on the company, a customer service representative is responsible for Listening to customer queries and complaints, and solving them as efficiently as they can
Provide information about products and services
Handle returns
Take orders and process payments
For this role, you need a high school diploma and an excellent skill set, including communication, time management, and computer skills.
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Business Analyst Average salary
$39,966
Job growth rate: +9%
Entry-level business analysts assist seniors in analyzing company budgets, creating and maintaining databases, and assisting in implementing different practices.
The most common sectors for a business analyst are finance and market research.
Entry into the role includes a bachelor’s degree in finance or business and an internship while at college. (Highest Paying Entry Level Jobs)
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Paralegal
Average salary: $38,253
Job growth rate: +12%
Entry-level paralegals usually work in a lawyer’s office, directly with a lawyer.
FAQ about Highest Paying Entry Level Jobs
What are the highest-paying entry-level jobs?
The highest paying entry-level jobs are software developer, electrical engineer, financial analyst, data scientist, hardware engineer, insurance sales agent, actuary, registered nurse, microbiologist, medical lab technician, computer systems administrator, statistician, pharma sales rep, air traffic controller, construction manager, accountant, social worker, medical assistant, equipment operator, and web developer.
How much do entry-level software developers make?
Entry-level software developers can earn an average annual salary of $70,000 to $95,000. The top degrees for this path are computer science, computer engineering, information technology, and software engineering. Key technical skills include programming languages (JavaScript, Python, C++), databases, operating systems, and agile methodologies (Scrum, Kanban).
What can you expect to earn as a starting electrical engineer?
On average, entry-level electrical engineers can earn between $65,000 to $75,000. Key technical skills include circuit boards, control systems, microcontroller programming, PLC programming, soldering, power electronics, motors, instrumentation, block diagrams, PCB layout, Physics, and Math (algebra, trigonometry, calculus).
How much do financial analysts make at entry-level positions?
Financial analysts typically start at $50,000 to $65,000. Education requirements are a Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, math, or accounting. Technical skills needed include business communication, financial statement analysis, Excel modeling, statistics, economics, visualization tools like Tableau, and research skills.
What wage can you earn starting as a data scientist?
Entry-level data scientists earn $60,000 to $95,000 on average. Necessary degrees include computer science, math, applied physics, or statistics. Required skills include Python and R programming, machine learning algorithms, GIS tools, SQL databases, Hadoop, Spark, natural language processing, and data mining.
What is the salary range for a beginner hardware engineer?
Early hardware engineering salaries typically range from $60,000 – $70,000. Common undergraduate degrees are computer engineering and electrical engineering. Technical proficiencies include coding (C, C++), processors, embedded systems, CAD, physics, testing procedures, power systems, prototyping, design, simulations, and Microsoft tools.
Can insurance sales agents earn six-figure incomes at entry level?
Top-earning entry-level insurance sales agents can earn $100,000 per year, especially with commission-based pay structures. They are licensed to sell property, casualty, and life health policies. Sales skills are necessary to be an effective insurance salesperson. (Highest Paying Entry Level Jobs)
What salary does a registered nurse make after graduating?
A newly graduated registered nurse receives an average starting salary of $60,000 – $65,000. However, most hospitals offer lucrative sign-on bonuses and benefits as demand is very high due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Experience allows fast salary growth.
What education do microbiologists get before they start working?
Microbiologists receive at least a 4-year bachelor of science degree focused on biology, microbiology, or biology specializing in microbiology. Research internships boost job prospects with starting salaries averaging $50,000 to $60,000.
How much does a medical lab technician make out of college?
Straight out of a 2 or 4-year medical laboratory technician program, field entrants earn between $30,000 to $40,000 on average, depending on certifications, program reputation, and employer type. Hospitals, universities, government, and labs hire most technicians. (Highest Paying Entry Level Jobs)
What are common entry-level computer system administrator salaries?
On average, entry-level system administrator salaries start at $50,000 to $65,000. Key technical competencies include Windows or Linux administration, shell scripting, system analysis/troubleshooting, network infrastructure, virtual machines, backups, and system security protocols like access controls and encryption.
Can you earn a high starting salary with a statistics degree?
Yes, statistics majors from undergrad programs earn competitive entry salaries ranging from $60,000 – $75,000. Sound statistical reasoning, data visualization, statistical programming (SAS or R), survey methodology, A/B testing, and research skills comprise key first-job competencies.
How much money can you make as a pharmaceutical sales rep after graduating?
Starting salaries for pharma sales reps fall from $45,000 to $60,000. Good growth potential exists due to commission-based pay structures. Sales skills are critical, and a biology or life sciences specialization helps gain needed industry and therapeutic familiarity.
What degree do air traffic controllers have when they get hired?
Air traffic controllers only need an associate’s degree supplemented by training at the FAA Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative or Air Force experience. First-year wages average around $80,000 nationally, making this a top-paid entry-level option. (Highest Paying Entry Level Jobs)
Can new construction managers earn six figures out of college?
Yes, new construction manager salaries at top firms can reach $100,000, boosted by profit-sharing incentives, especially those with internship experience managing crews, subcontractors’ budgets, bids, and timelines for commercial or civil projects during practical training.
What salary can an accountant expect after finishing a bachelor’s degree?
The average starting salary for an accountant ranges from $45,000 – $60,000 depending on geographic location and firm size/type like Big 4 practice, industry concentration and whether CPA track. Public accountants earn 10-15% more initially but have longer hours.
How much money can social workers make without experience?
While earning potential rises significantly with licensure and specializations, entry-level social work salaries average $45,000 – $55,000. Key first job settings include community health clinics, schools, government, psychiatric health, and substance abuse facilities. (Highest Paying Entry Level Jobs)
What is the average annual salary for medical assistants entering the field?
Brand-new medical assistants earn approximately $30,000 – $37,000 on average. However, opportunities abound to quickly increase pay by specializing in sub-fields, pursuing additional certifications like phlebotomy training, ranking administrative duties, or transitioning to adjacent healthcare roles.
What industries offer the highest entry-level salaries for equipment operators?
Equipment operators generally start around $40,000 – $50,000 across industries like construction, mining, oil drilling, logging, shipyards, railroads, power transmission, aircraft service, waste management, and renewable energy generation, with competitive wages, overtime, and benefits.
How much can web developers make after finishing a web design or development boot camp?
With 6-18 weeks of intensive training from reputable boot camps teaching modern web development skills like JavaScript frameworks, CSS, AWS, and Git, entrants can earn $50,000 – $75,000 launching new post-bootcamp web developer careers.
