Exploring Entry-Level IT Roles for Career Starters
Dreaming about a career in tech but don’t know where to start?
Thousands of people look at the IT industry every year and conclude it’s impossible to get a foot in the door. Job postings demand 3+ years of experience for “entry-level” roles and throw potential candidates right back out the door.
It’s a common problem…
Most people don’t know which IT roles are real entry-level positions and which ones are just phony. They waste time applying for senior jobs with complex skills when actual beginner roles are waiting to be filled.
Fortunately, there is a solution.
There are specific IT roles that companies actively recruit for with little or no experience required. These roles give you great training on the job and clear pathways to move up.
Here’s what you will learn:
- Which IT Roles Actually Hire Beginners
- Breaking Down Entry-Level IT Salary Expectations
- How To Get Your First IT Job Without Experience
- The Fastest Path To IT Career Growth
Which IT Roles Actually Hire Beginners
Entry-level IT jobs are real, but not all of them. It’s important to be able to spot which roles truly welcome newbies.
Here are some of the easiest entry-level IT jobs that companies are actively hiring for…
Help Desk Technician
Help desk is the traditional entry point into IT. The job involves helping users with basic computer issues, resetting passwords, and guiding them through simple solutions.
Why it’s perfect for newbies:
- Training is expected
- Most solutions are well documented
- Exposure to multiple IT disciplines
- Clear advancement paths
IT Support Specialist
IT support is similar to help desk, but with a little more responsibility. You may also get to do hardware installs, basic network troubleshooting, and software updates.
The best part? Most IT support roles offer formal training programs that will teach you everything you need to know on the job.
Computer Technician
Computer technicians focus more on the hardware side of things: installing RAM and hard drives, setting up new workstations, and so on. It’s hands-on work that requires less upfront technical knowledge.
Junior System Administrator
Some companies have junior system admin roles that support senior system admins with basic server maintenance and monitoring tasks. As a junior, you get to learn under the guidance of a more experienced professional.
Fun fact…
According to recent data, 89% of technology leaders say it’s hard to find workers with the right mix of skills. 
If you can demonstrate even a base level of talent, companies will be eager to train and help you grow.
Breaking Down Entry-Level IT Salary Expectations
You might be wondering how much money you can really make as a total beginner.
Here’s the reality of entry-level IT salaries…
Help Desk Technician Salaries
The average help desk technician can make about $56,411 per year for entry-level work. This comes out to roughly $27 per hour.
Wages typically range from:
- 25th percentile: $45,990
- 75th percentile: $69,747
IT Support Specialist Pay
IT support specialists can expect salaries between $48,000 – $65,000 per year for entry-level positions. These salaries are a bit higher than entry-level help desk wages.
The catch? These are entry-level salaries only. The real earning power for IT professionals comes as you gain experience and credentials.
How To Get Your First IT Job Without Experience
You don’t need to be a computer science major with 5 years of tech experience to land your first IT role.
Here’s how to become a rockstar IT candidate with almost no technical experience:
Focus On Soft Skills
Help desk and support jobs require constant problem-solving and communication. Focus on any prior experience you have that demonstrates soft skills like:
- Customer service
- Problem-solving
- Communication skills
- Working under pressure
Get Basic Certifications
A couple of certifications can go a long way:
- CompTIA A+ – The gold standard for entry-level IT
- Google IT Support Certificate – Affordable and widely recognized
- CompTIA Network+ – Ideal for networking jobs
Build A Home Lab
Get old computers, set them up, and start practicing basic troubleshooting. Document your work. Show companies you have initiative and practical knowledge you can talk about during interviews.
Apply Strategically
Focus on companies that are known to hire entry-level IT workers. Managed service providers, large corporations, government agencies, and universities are all good targets.
The Fastest Path To IT Career Growth
Once you land your first IT job, growth can come surprisingly fast with the right approach.
Master Your Current Role First
Become an expert at your current job before worrying about climbing the ladder. Learn every system, process, and tool your company uses until you can teach someone else.
Choose Your Specialization
After 6-12 months, start focusing on one area:
- Network Administration – In charge of company networks and systems
- Cybersecurity – Focus on securing company systems
- Cloud Computing – All things cloud
- Database Administration – All things databases
Never Stop Learning
The IT industry moves quickly. Block out time every week to stay on top of new skills. Online training, certifications, and industry reading are your friends.
Fun fact…
Many IT managers started in help desk roles. Problem-solving, communication, and patience learned from solving everyday problems are the same skills that make IT great leaders.
Network Within Your Company
Get to know people in other IT departments. Volunteer for projects, ask questions, and show interest in learning the ropes.
Market Reality Check
Before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s look at the IT market right now…
The industry is in a little flux at the moment. One recent report found an 11.2% drop in entry-level job postings from Q1 2021 to Q2 2024, but that doesn’t mean it’s bad for job seekers.
There is less opportunity, but what is out there is harder to fill. Companies are being more selective, but it’s hard to find qualified candidates. If you prepare and target the right roles, it can actually be an opportunity for job seekers.
Focus on IT roles that truly hire beginners instead of going after jobs that require years of experience.
Making Your Move
Ready to get started? Here is your action plan:
- Choose your target role – Help desk is the best entry point
- Get basic certification – CompTIA A+ or Google IT Support Certificate
- Practice your skills – Home lab or helping friends with their computers
- Apply strategically – Target the right companies that hire beginners
- Prepare for interviews – Practice how to discuss your problem-solving process and eagerness to learn
There are companies and opportunities out there waiting for you. All it takes is a little determination.
The IT industry needs new talent, and entry-level positions are waiting for the right people willing to start at the bottom and work up.
The only question is whether you are willing to take that first step.
Time To Take Action
Breaking into IT isn’t the impossible task it seems. Yes, some positions require years of experience, but real entry-level roles do exist for motivated beginners.
The trick is focusing on the right positions, getting basic certifications, and being able to communicate your willingness and ability to learn.
Companies are desperate for people that can grow with their technology needs.
Is your IT career waiting for you?
