We currently live in economically turbulent times. If you’re entering the workforce in 2025 and wondering what are some good entry level jobs, this guide will help. The job market continues to evolve, and entry level positions offer incredible opportunities for those with relevant skills, problem solving, and critical thinking abilities.
Many jobs today value hands on experience, a strong portfolio, or online courses over traditional degrees. By targeting entry level job postings that emphasize skill over tenure, you can find roles that lead to consistent career growth, improved credit and advancement opportunities.
Whether you have a high school diploma, an associate’s degree, or a bachelor’s degree, there are entry level jobs that can launch a very lucrative career. Here are eight of the best jobs for entry level employees, whuch offer career growth, solid average salary, and clear routes for success.
What are the Best Entry Level Jobs?
Currently, some of the best entry level jobs include:
- Software Developer
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Financial Analyst
- Marketing Associate
- Graphic Designer
- Research Assistant
- Sales Representative
- Dental Hygienist
Here is everything you need to know about each of them, in-depth.
Software Developer
Software development remains one of the most highest-paying entry-level options available. With online courses, relevant certifications, or a bachelor’s degree in computer science, you can break into this field without prior professional experience. You’ll need problem-solving skills, analytical skills, and the ability to work with automation tools, data analysis, and machine learning frameworks. These roles are in demand as so many companies prioritize digital infrastructure, which is also why Software Developers often work from home, meaning that you can make money online.
A software developer job is a dream of many people worldwide these days, and breaking into the industry can be tough at times. Still, if you manage to get your foot in the door and land an entry-level software development job, you can quickly develop your career and improve your earnings.
- Average salary: $78,000
- Entry level qualifications: Bachelor’s or online courses
- Strong in: data analysis, critical thinking, computer systems
- Best for those seeking a very lucrative career in the tech field
Also read: Best Money Saving Tips
Cybersecurity Analyst
For those interested in network security, a cybersecurity analyst role is one of the fastest-growing and most lucrative career paths in 2025. As cyber threats rise, entry-level roles in this area are more accessible, especially for those with hands on experience and relevant certifications. No need for a college degree—some get in with a high school diploma and strong problem solving abilities.
Cybersecurity is a very serious sector to work in, and as dangers mount worldwide, it’s clear that cybersecurity specialists will only continue to be in high demand. It’s also one of the more popular digital nomad jobs, due to high income and remote work possibilities. If you manage to break into the field, you will have a career with some great outlooks for future development.
- Average salary: $72,000
- Entry level path: Certifications in network security or computer systems
- Useful skills: problem solving, data analysis, critical thinking
- Great stepping stone to a very lucrative career in IT security
Read also: Why Saving Money Is Important?
Financial Analyst
A financial analyst role is ideal for people strong in statistical analysis, data analytics, and problem-solving. Most entry-level jobs in finance require a bachelor’s degree, but relevant online courses and internships can also help. As companies look to suggest ways to optimize operations, these analysts play a vital role. They are essential in businesses making money.
Finance is one of the most lucrative sectors to find a job in. Although it requires higher education to take virtually any position, most of them pay well, and even offer potential government work in the future.
- Average salary: $65,000
- Entry-level route: Bachelor’s or local community college + online courses
- Helpful skills: problem solving, data entry, and analyzing data
- Strong outlook for career path growth
Also check out: How to Stop Saving Money
Marketing Associate
A marketing associate position is one of the best entry-level positions to build transferable skills. With a strong grasp of client services, presentation skills, and content tools, this entry-level job can open doors to higher positions in PR, social media, or brand strategy. Problem solving and time management are vital.
Great thing about working as a marketing associate is that you most often don’t need to have any higher education (though a degree in business certainly won’t harm your chances). You can also easily gravitate toward other employment opportunities with the experience you get as a marketing associate.
- Average salary: $52,000
- Best for: Strong communication, presentation skills, problem solving
- Gateway to roles like pr assistant or sales representative
- Ideal for those without previous experience but eager to learn
Also check out: How to Make Money on Social Media
Graphic Designer
Graphic designers are always in demand, which makes it one of the best side-hustles if you’re looking to make some cash. With a strong portfolio and experience using Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, or similar, individuals with a high school diploma or associate’s degree can get hired into entry-level roles. Creativity, problem solving, and time management are key.
While graphic designers are in demand on the job market, not everyone can be one. You need prior artistic talent, and ideally some additional experience in artistic work. Still, if you’ve got what it takes, you can turn your passion for art into a well-paying entry-level job!
- Average salary: $50,000
- Ideal for: Creatives with problem-solving, design, and branding insight
- Path to freelance or running your own business
- A smart choice in the modern digital world
Research Assistant
Whether you’re exploring academia or preparing for law school, being a research assistant is a rewarding entry-level job. Many entry-level roles in this area allow you to gain hands-on experience while honing analytical skills, data entry, and writing.
If your interests lie in academia and research, or you’re simply looking for student jobs, then working as a research assistant can be a great stepping stone into a full-blown tenure career. It’s also a great way to make some extra money for any PhD student, while also further advancing your career within academia.
- Average salary: $48,000
- Great for: Building a career path in research or higher education
- Helpful for future law school or advanced degrees
- Popular with recent grads wanting their first job
Also check out: Best Way to Pay Off Debt
Sales Representative
If you enjoy communication, being a sales representative could be your best job pick. It’s one of the most common entry-level jobs, often available with just a high school diploma. Strong presentation skills, the ability to build relationships, and a desire to succeed make this a strong option.
Similarly to working as a marketing associate, a sales representative job is a perfect choice for someone interested in the corporate lifestyle. Once you gain experience as a sales representative, it’s easy to pivot into other jobs. as well as start your own business.
- Average salary: $49,000 + commission
- Key for: Problem solving, client services, critical thinking
- Found in tech, retail, and human resources department recruiting
- Great for individuals looking for a lucrative career in business
Also Read: How to Set Financial Goals
Dental Hygienist
For those interested in healthcare and oral health, becoming a dental hygienist can be a fantastic opportunity. With an associate’s degree and relevant certifications, this role offers excellent average salary and a predictable career path—no need for law school or medical school.
A dental hygienist is a great entry-level job for those interested in eventually pivoting into a healthcare career. With the experience you get as a dental hygienist, you will have an easier time searching for a healthcare job, as well as can expect higher initial income.
- Average salary: $74,000
- Entry from: Local community college, certifications
- Offers: Hands on experience, strong job stability
- Excellent choice for healthcare without a bachelor’s degree
Also Check Out: How to Start an Emergency Fund
Final Thoughts
The best paying entry-level job depends on your interests and strengths. Although we hear many voices that the global economy is in dire straits these days, as you can see, there are many different entry-level jobs you can try. If you’re having a problem figuring out your plan for the future, try checking out one of the careers listed in this article!
