Your Guide to Entry-Level IT Jobs: Top Roles & Requirements
Learn more about a range of in-demand IT careers and the requirements to get started.
Information technology (IT) is a growing field with many career path opportunities. You can start out at the help desk and work your way up to any number of specialized jobs as you grow in your knowledge and skills. Or, if you have some background knowledge, you can jump straight into a field you’re interested in. In the United States, jobs in IT are projected to grow at a much faster rate than other occupations over the next decade [1]. In this article, we'll go over 10 entry-level IT positions to consider as you begin your job search.
If you're ready to start preparing for your first role, consider enrolling in the Google IT Support Professional Certificate. You'll gain job-ready, in-demand IT skills like troubleshooting, debugging, and working with AI.
professional certificate
Google IT Support
Get on the fast track to a career in IT. In this certificate program, you’ll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required.
4.8
Beginner level
Average time: 6 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Cybersecurity, Wireless Security, Cryptography, Network Security, Directory Service, Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP), Backup, Domain Name System (DNS), Ipv4, Network Model, Troubleshooting, Binary Code, Customer Support, Linux, Powershell, Linux File Systems, Command-Line Interface
Is IT a good career path?
The IT field is booming with career opportunities, making it a great choice for those seeking job security, high earning potential, and constant learning. With technology touching every industry, IT professionals are in high demand, enjoying competitive salaries, career growth, and the flexibility to often work remotely or set their own hours. And it's not just about coding! From cybersecurity to data analysis, there are diverse roles throughout this field to suit various interests and skill sets.
1. Help desk technician
Median annual US salary: $60,810 [2]
Job outlook: 6% annual growth [2]
Requirements: Knowledge of computer systems and troubleshooting. IT certifications, associate degrees, or bachelor’s degrees may be requested.
When a computer user or employee is having problems with hardware, software, or a network, they call on a help desk specialist to assist. A help desk technician might maintain, install, or troubleshoot hardware and software, resolve networking issues, or help resolve other problems for other company employees.
The title for this role might vary. Help desk technicians can also be called help desk analysts, desktop support technicians, service desk technicians, and computer support specialists, among several other titles. These user experience support positions collectively are sometimes referred to as help desk positions.
Many IT professionals start their careers in help desk roles. If you don’t know where to start in IT, this may be a good role to consider because it’ll expose you to other areas of IT. As you gain experience, it’s possible to move into other jobs, like system administrator, network administrator, cloud engineer, or information security analyst.
Learn more: How to Find + Prepare for Entry-Level Help Desk Jobs
Basic skills can be gained from the Google IT Support program, and the excitement of learning comes from you.
— Yvonne J-W., on taking the Google IT Support Professional Certificate
professional certificate
Google IT Support
Get on the fast track to a career in IT. In this certificate program, you’ll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required.
4.8
Beginner level
Average time: 6 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Cybersecurity, Wireless Security, Cryptography, Network Security, Directory Service, Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP), Backup, Domain Name System (DNS), Ipv4, Network Model, Troubleshooting, Binary Code, Customer Support, Linux, Powershell, Linux File Systems, Command-Line Interface
2. IT technician
Average annual US salary: $54,000 [3]
Job outlook: 6% annual growth [2]
Requirements: Knowledge of computer systems and troubleshooting. Certifications, associate degrees, or bachelor’s degrees may be requested.
Like help desk technicians, IT technicians work to support the technical issues within an organization’s computer system. But while help desk technicians might spend more time resolving user issues, IT technicians are more likely to spend time doing the actual technical work to resolve the issue. An IT technician should be able to troubleshoot, know how to use several operating systems, and understand the basics of IT networks.
IT technicians can also be called IT associates, IT analysts, or IT specialists. Some companies may have IT technicians do help desk work as well.
Read more: How to Get a Job as a Computer Technician | 10 Tips
3. Web developer
Median annual US salary: $92,750 [4]
Job outlook: 8% annual growth [4]
Requirements: Ability to program. Associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degrees may be requested.
Web developers create websites that businesses use to operate and interact with their customers. This field breaks down into three main areas: front-end, back-end, and full-stack developers. Front-end developers design the parts of a website that users interact with. Back-end developers build and maintain the server, application, and database that power a website. Full-stack developers do both.
Requirements for entry-level candidates will vary by company and industry. It’s possible to get a job with a high school diploma or an associate’s degree, especially if you’ve done some web development on your own. Front-end programming languages you’ll want to learn include HTML, CSS, and Javascript. Back-end programming languages might include Python, Ruby, or PHP.
Learn more: How to Become a Web Developer
You can learn HTML, CSS, React, and Javascript in as little as one month while earning a certificate for your study from Johns Hopkins University with the following flexible online program:
Average time: 1 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
CSS Frameworks, Responsive Web Design, Web Development, Css Frameworks, HTML Components, Javascript, HTML, JavaScript, Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), Document Object Model (DOM), Document Object Model, Object Oriented Programming Language, Single Page Application, Ajax (Programming Language), Bootstrap (Front-End Framework), Twitter Bootstrap, CSS, CSS Box Model, Css Box Model
4. Systems administrator
Median annual US salary: $95,360 [5]
Job outlook: -3% annual growth (slower than average) [5]
Requirements: Experience with computer systems. Certifications, associate degree, bachelor’s degree, or equivalent experience may be requested.
System administrators, also called computer administrators, install, configure, and maintain operation of multi-user computer systems and servers. A successful sysadmin uses their knowledge of software, hardware, and networks to keep businesses running smoothly. Their roles can overlap heavily with network administrators.
Keeping up with the latest network technology is a lifelong learning process. As you expand your skill set and learn to use the latest products, you can advance to roles like systems engineer or systems architect.
course
System Administration and IT Infrastructure Services
This course will transition you from working on a single computer to an entire fleet. Systems administration is the field of IT that’s responsible for ...
4.8
Beginner level
Average time: 24 hour(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
User Accounts, Server Administration, Windows Servers, Data Storage, Linux Administration, Network Administration, Systems Administration, Lightweight Directory Access Protocols, Active Directory, Virtualization, Cloud Computing, Disaster Recovery, Cloud Infrastructure, IT Infrastructure
5. Systems analyst
Median annual US salary: $103,800 [6]
Job outlook: 11% annual growth (faster than average) [6]
Requirements: Certifications, associate degree, bachelor’s degree, or equivalent experience may be preferred.
Systems analysts might sound similar to systems administrators, but they’re quite different. The goal of a systems analyst is to make a company’s computing systems more efficient and effective. They identify opportunities for improvement and design, test, and deploy systems to execute those improvements.
While not always a requirement, a bachelor’s degree in computer or information science can make you competitive for this job.
Read more: Business Systems Analyst: Skills, Jobs, Salary, Career Outlook
specialization
Information Systems
Information Technology . Become a better manager of information technology to address business problems
4.8
Beginner level
Average time: 1 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Project Management, Critical Thinking, Management, IT Skills and Knowledge, Finance and accounting skills and knowledge, Business analysis skills and knowledge, Project management skills and knowledge
6. Database administrator
Median annual US salary: $117,450 [7]
Job outlook: 9% annual growth (faster than average) [7]
Requirements: Certifications, associate degrees, or bachelor’s degrees may be requested.
Database administrators (DBAs) store, organize, and secure data. This is an especially critical task for companies with large information systems (like banks and hospitals). Ensuring that databases operate efficiently helps companies analyze and leverage this data for growth.
Build a foundation for a job in database administration with a bachelor’s degree in a computer or information-related field. You can also set yourself up for success by learning database languages, most commonly Structured Query Language (SQL).
7. Site reliability engineer
Average base US salary: $152,000 [8]
Job outlook: The US Bureau of Labor Statistics doesn’t provide specific growth statistics for SREs. However, it projects the software developer, quality assurance analyst, and testing fields—all closely related to the SRE field—will grow 17 percent between 2023 and 2033 [9].
Requirements: Site reliability or DevOps experience and related skills. Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent experience may be requested.
Site reliability engineers (SREs) keep the websites and apps we use up and running smoothly. SREs develop automated solutions for common development and operational tasks, like latency monitoring, capacity planning, and emergency responding. As long as technology continues to play a role in our day-to-day lives, there will be a growing demand for SREs.
Besides a computer science degree, you can elevate your resume with a certification in DevOps or SRE. You may also expand your job opportunities by learning a scripting programming language, like Python. As you start out as an SRE, you’ll develop skills that transfer to other roles in IT, including cloud or full-stack engineering.
Read more: Site Reliability Engineer Salary Guide
professional certificate
IBM DevOps and Software Engineering
Launch your DevOps and Software Engineering Career. Master DevOps, Agile, Scrum, CI/CD and Cloud Native with hands-on job-ready skills.
4.7
Beginner level
Average time: 6 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Software Engineering, Python Programming, Application development, Web Application, Flask, Artificial Intelligence (AI), CI/CD, Continuous Integration, Continuous Development, Infrastructure As Code, Automation, Software Testing, Test-Driven Development, Behavior-Driven Development, Test Case, Automated Testing, Kanban, Zenhub, Scrum Methodology, Agile Software Development, Sprint Planning, Software Architecture, Agile and Scrum, Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC), Openshift, Docker, Kubernetes, Containers, Cloud Native, agile, Devops, TDD/BDD, Observability, Telemetry, Monitoring, logging, Tracing, Representational State Transfer (REST), Cloud Applications, Microservices, serverless, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), security, Cloud Computing, Hybrid Multicloud, Iaas PaaS Saas, Data Science, Data Analysis, Numpy, Pandas, Distributed Version Control Systems (DVCS), Git (Software), Github, open source, Cloning and forking, Shell Script, Bash (Unix Shell), Extract Transform and Load (ETL), Linux, Linux Commands
8. Software developer
Median annual US salary: $130,160 [9]
Job outlook: 17% annual growth (much faster than average) [9]
Requirements: Experience with programming languages. Bachelor’s degrees or master’s degrees may be requested.
Software developers (sometimes called software engineers) build the systems and applications that run on computers, phones, and other devices. These programs are typically designed to allow companies or employees to perform specific tasks, like managing data or collaborating across teams.
Many software developers have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or software engineering. You can also gain relevant experience through coursework or a boot camp, or through an internship.
Learn more: How to Become a Software Developer | 9 Tips
professional certificate
Amazon Junior Software Developer
Launch your career as a Junior Software Developer. Build job-ready skills for an in-demand career in software development in as little as 4 months. No prior experience or degree required to get started.
4.6
Beginner level
Average time: 4 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Software Development, Java Programming, Generative AI, SQL Database Management, Full-Stack Web Development, Java Database Connectivity, Databases, SQL Queries, Recursion, Algorithms, Java Structures, Frontend Development, Full-Stack Development, Backend Systems, JavaScript, Web APIs, Executing Java Code, Java Development Environment, Software Development Lifecycle, Object-Oriented Programming, Testing and Debugging, Software Project Planning and Design, Agile Software Development, Version Control, Document a Requirements Analysis, Bug Detection, Coding Automation, Decision-making, Decision-Making, Performance Evaluation, Task Optimization, Java Coding, Serialization, Classes, Deserialization Techniques, Exception Handling
9. Information security analyst
Median annual US salary: $120,360 [10]
Job outlook: 33% annual growth (much faster than average) [10]
Requirements: Certifications, associate degrees, or bachelor’s degrees may be requested.
Information security analysts (also called cybersecurity analysts) are tasked with protecting a company’s computer networks and systems. This involves planning and implementing security measures and quickly addressing security breaches should they occur. As technology continues to advance, so does the need for robust security.
Develop your skill set through an entry-level information security certification like the CompTIA Security+. Many information security analysts have a bachelor’s degree in information assurance or computer science. If you can’t land an information security analyst position immediately, try getting your foot in the door with a help desk or IT technician position, and build experience from there.
Learn more: How to Become an Information Security Analyst
professional certificate
IBM Cybersecurity Analyst
Launch your career as a cybersecurity analyst . Build job-ready skills for an in-demand role in the field, no degree or prior experience required.
4.7
Beginner level
Average time: 4 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Database Queries, Cybersecurity Compliance, Incident Response, Cybersecurity Case Study Analysis, Penetration Testing, Network Security, Digital Forensics, Cybersecurity Threats, Cybersecurity Controls, Physical Threats and Controls, Risk Management, Laws and Regulations, Cybersecurity Framework, Cybersecurity Standards, Operating Systems, Directory and File Management, User (Computing), Virtualization, Linux, Windows, MacOS, User Accounts, Certification exam practice, CompTIA CySA, Cybersecurity, CompTIA Security+, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cryptography, Penetration Test, Cyber Threat Hunting, Incident management, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Vulnerability Management, Generative AI, Cyberattacks, Information Security (INFOSEC), Application Security, Digital Evidence Handling, Security Analysis and Reporting, Cybersecurity Incident Management, Cybersecurity Careers, Interviewing Skills, job interviews, Resume, Job Search Strategies, Data Security, Digital Network Architecture, Network Configuration, Endpoint Security, Intrusion Detection Systems, Firewall Configuration, Database Security, User profiles, Password policies, Database injection vulnerabilities, Database auditing models, CompTIA Certifications, ISC2 certifications
Read more: 10 Popular Cybersecurity Certifications
10. Cloud engineer
Average base US salary: $153,000 [11]
Requirements: Knowledge of cloud platforms. Bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or equivalent experience are typically preferred.
Cloud engineers help businesses migrate applications, functions, and processes to the cloud. They typically oversee the design, configuration, and monitoring of cloud-based services like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and the Google Cloud Platform. As more companies move their IT infrastructure to the cloud, the demand for cloud engineers continues to rise.
Many companies look for entry-level candidates with at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. That said, having relevant experience can set you up to be competitive for the job as well. If you’re working your way up to become a cloud engineer, try starting in positions like system or network administration that’ll expose you to some work with the cloud. As you gain experience, you can advance to become a cloud developer, cloud administrator, or cloud architect.
Learn more: Guide to Becoming a Cloud DevOps Engineer
professional certificate
Preparing for Google Cloud Certification: Cloud Engineer
Start your career in the cloud.
4.8
Intermediate level
Average time: 1 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Load Balancing, Virtual Private Network (VPN), Google Cloud Platform, Autoscaling, Google Cloud, Cloud Computing, GCP Infrastructure, GCP ACE Certification, Google Compute Engine, Virtual Machine, Network Architecture, Google App Engine (GAE), Debugging, Cloud Storage, Data Store
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Prepare for your entry-level IT job with Coursera
If you’re looking to land your first role, consider enrolling in Google's IT Support Professional Certificate. You'll learn to perform day-to-day IT support tasks including computer assembly, wireless networking, installing programs, and customer service.
To gain fundamental IT skills while also concentrating your study in an in-demand specialization, consider IBM's Information Technology (IT) and Cloud Fundamentals Specialization. In as little as two months, you could master cloud computing and cybersecurity basics.
professional certificate
Google IT Support
Get on the fast track to a career in IT. In this certificate program, you’ll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required.
4.8
Beginner level
Average time: 6 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Cybersecurity, Wireless Security, Cryptography, Network Security, Directory Service, Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP), Backup, Domain Name System (DNS), Ipv4, Network Model, Troubleshooting, Binary Code, Customer Support, Linux, Powershell, Linux File Systems, Command-Line Interface
specialization
Information Technology (IT) and Cloud Fundamentals
Kickstart a new IT and Cloud Career . Master hardware, operating systems, programming, database, networking, storage, cybersecurity, and Cloud computing essentials.
4.8
Beginner level
Average time: 2 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Software Application Development, Computer Programming, Software Development Process, Database basics, IT Fundamentals, Technical Support, Operating Systems, Troubleshooting, hardware, Cybersecurity, Cryptography, Cyberattacks, Information Security (INFOSEC), Application Security, Cloud Computing, Hybrid Multicloud, Devops, Iaas PaaS Saas, Cloud Native, Certification Test, CompTIA ITF+, Cloud, Exam Practice, Wireless Networks, Network Troubleshooting, Network Architecture, Cloud Storage, Networking Hardware
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Article sources
US Bureau of Labor Statistics. "Computer and Information Technology Occupations, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm." Accessed February 24, 2025.
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