Top 15 Entry-Level Jobs That Pay Well for 2022

There's a common myth that entry-level jobs don't pay well. But the fact that you don't have much experience doesn't necessarily mean that you can't get a high-paying job. This article discusses the highest-paying entry-level jobs that pay well in 2022, covering the job requirements, primary duties, salary range, job-seeking tips, and so much more. 

But first things first, what is an entry-level job?

An entry-level job is the kind of job that's usually reserved for recent graduates of a certain discipline. In most cases, entry-level positions don't require prior experience in that particular field or profession. 

Given that most individuals who apply for entry-level jobs usually have little or no experience, they tend to earn lower salaries than their experienced counterparts. Without further ado, here are 15 of the highest-paying in 2022.

1. Software Developers

Many software developers earn a decent income straight out of college or bootcamp. On average, an entry-level software developer earns at least $64,240 a year. However, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most established software developers earn at least $50 an hour, which amounts to over $110,000 a year. Some common duties and responsibilities of an entry-level software developer include performing routine tasks such as code debugging and documentation, improving their general programming skills, working with more experienced software developers, helping upgrade existing software or apps, and so on. 

Entry-level software developer national average salary: $76,800 a year 

2. Financial Analyst

If you love working with data and finances, you may consider a career as a financial analyst after graduation. An entry-level financial analyst must have at least a Bachelor's degree. In most job environments, entry-level financial analysts are responsible for compiling budget and income statement forecasts into reports. As an entry-level financial analyst, you may also be required to analyze a business or organization's financial status and provide ways to improve its financial health. 

Entry-level financial analyst national average salary: $67,000 a year 

3. Database Analyst

A database analyst or data scientist usually deals with database technologies that store information in specific ways. This individual may work closely with a company's IT team to maintain data storage, assess database design, collect, organize and interpret crucial data, and so on. Database analysts may also be referred to as data analysts, data modelers, or database administrators. The BLS estimates a yearly salary of $98,860 for this profession, which translates to around $47 an hour. However, entry-level data analysts earn less than their experienced counterparts but more than many entry-level jobs.

Entry-level database analyst national average salary: $64,000 a year 

4. IT Technician

A career as an IT technician can be lucrative even at the entry level. An IT technician usually provides desktop and printer support for a company or organization and its clients. This individual also provides network support, including maintenance, configuration, installation, etc. To become an IT technician, you'll need an Associate or Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology, Computer Information Systems, Computer Science, or a related field. 

Entry-level IT technician national average salary: $65,000 a year 

5. Web Developer

A web developer is usually responsible for coding, modifying, and designing websites or web applications. This individual can also create retina-ready, visually appealing, user-friendly websites and web applications. 

Most employers prefer web developers with a Bachelor's Degree in a particular field, typically computer science. However, many web developers land lucrative jobs even without a degree. This is one of those few professions you can learn by yourself or simply by attending a web development boot camp. As an entry-level web developer, also commonly referred to as a junior web developer, you may be responsible for creating websites, updating or upgrading existing web applications, coding, testing, and design adjustments. 

Entry-level web developer national average salary: $70,000 a year 

6. Environmental Engineer

A career in environmental engineering usually comes with many benefits. These engineers typically work with government or private agencies, helping them find solutions to various environmental problems, such as pollution. Entry-level environmental engineers may be responsible for conducting tasks related to site remediation and assessment, risk assessment and management, and environmental compliance monitoring. At a time when many companies are looking for environmentally-friendly ways of conducting business, environmental engineers can be assured of job security for many years to come.

Entry-level environmental engineer national average salary: $75,000 a year

7. Registered Nurse

The healthcare industry provides countless evergreen yet lucrative career opportunities. For example, an experienced Registered Nurse earns approximately $75,000 a year. However, the good news is that most entry-level Registered Nurses still earn decent salaries. Some common duties and responsibilities of entry-level RNs include making rounds within a healthcare facility, administering medication as needed, documenting medical records, administering immunizations, etc. 

Entry-level Registered Nurse national average salary: $65,000 a year 

8. Physical Therapist

Physical therapists examine each patient and then develop treatment plans to improve their mobility, reduce or manage pain, and restore certain body functions. The ultimate goal of physical therapy is to prevent disability. To become a physical therapist in the United States, you must earn a doctor of physical therapy degree from an accredited physical therapist education program and then pass a state licensure exam. 

Entry-level physical therapist national average salary: $62,000 a year

9. Product Designer

As the name suggests, a product designer is responsible for designing a product. This individual usually oversees the design process from start to finish. However, entry-level product designers may not be required to oversee the design process due to a lack of experience. Instead, they may be in charge of improving existing products, ensuring compliance, etc. 

Entry-level product designer national average salary: $50,000 a year

10. Dental Hygienist

A dental hygienist promotes oral health by preventing and treating oral diseases. This professional is also commonly referred to as an oral hygienist and works directly with dentists at a dental clinic. Entry-level dental hygienists are usually responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of various dental tools, recording patient information, conducting patient screening, educating patients on good oral hygiene practices, etc. 

11. Paralegal

Paralegals are trained to assist lawyers in different legal capacities. For example, they are usually in charge of drafting correspondence and legal documents, acquiring affidavits and other formal statements to be submitted as evidence during legal proceedings, helping lawyers during trials, handling evidence, taking important notes, and reviewing trial transcripts. In addition, entry-level paralegals are usually responsible for handling legal paperwork, conducting administrative duties, and other related office tasks. This career comes with great potential for job growth, most notably the possibility of becoming a lawyer in the future. 

Entry-level paralegal national average annual salary: $50,000 a year

12. Marketing Associate

Marketing associates plan and implement marketing strategies for companies. This is one career that's expected to stay evergreen for many years, even as marketing techniques change. 

A marketing associate usually works closely with a marketing manager, digital marketing team, or account executive. Entry-level marketing associates' most common duties and responsibilities include editing marketing copy, following marketing trends, creating marketing reports, and improving existing marketing strategies. Some entry-level marketing roles may also include gathering customer feedback and predicting trends.

Entry-level marketing associate national average salary: $45,000 a year

13. Law Enforcement Officer

Law enforcement officers are responsible for upholding the law. A typical day in the life of a law enforcement agent may include conducting investigations, getting involved in high-speed chases, apprehending suspects, and so on. However, as an entry-level officer, you may start with issuing traffic violation tickets, documenting complaints, patrolling designated areas, providing evidence in court, writing reports, etc. The good thing about a career in law enforcement is that you don't necessarily need a degree - a high school diploma should get you started. However, you'll need to complete your job training at a police academy and earn a badge to qualify for this role. 

Entry-level law enforcement officer national average salary: $53,000 a year 

14. Social Media Manager

Social media management is a relatively new profession but with increasing demand. Social media managers typically develop marketing strategies, produce content, analyze user data, facilitate customer service, and interact with social media users on behalf of the company. 

Entry-level social media managers help build engaged communication, publish content research strategies and create reports. You do not necessarily need a degree in social media management. However, some companies prefer job seekers with an Associate or Bachelor's degree in journalism, communication, public relations, marketing, or a similar field. 

Entry-level social media manager national average annual salary: $48,800 a year

15. Copywriter

Copywriters write clear and concise marketing copies for websites, targeting any audience or industry. They usually work closely with social media managers, marketing managers or associates, editors, proofreaders, etc. 

To become a copywriter, you don't necessarily need a degree. However, you may have the upper hand with a Bachelor's or Associate's degree in journalism, public relations, communications, marketing, or a related field. Some employers also prefer copywriters with experience in proofreading or editing because it eliminates the need to hire separate proofreaders and editors. Entry-level copywriters usually help with market research, keyword research, generating creative ideas, interpreting client requirements, receiving feedback, improving content, and so on. 

Entry-level copywriter national average annual salary:  $52,000 a year 

Tips for Landing a High-Paying Entry-Level Job

It's one thing to discover a high-paying entry-level job and a totally different thing to land the job. So here are some tips to help you find a job that pays well with little or no experience required. 

Begin With Internships

Most employers prefer candidates who have taken internship roles in the past. This creates an impression that you clearly understand the job, making your resume more noticeable. Additionally, an internship creates the pathway for growth, usually within months. 

Highlight Your Skills

You may not have the much-needed experience for a particular role, but that doesn't necessarily mean that you don't possess the skills to pull it off. For example, a career in marketing requires someone with great communication skills. So when recruiters discover that you don't have much experience in a particular field, they'll most likely want to find out if your skills fit that specific job. This also brings us to the next point.

Build and Expand Your Skills

Consider learning skills relevant to your field if you wish to increase your chances of getting a high-paying entry-level job. For example, if you are a copywriter, it's advisable to get a certificate in editing and proofreading or anything in between because they are also relevant to copywriting. Or, as a social media manager, it may help to learn a thing or two about graphic design. With such credentials, you may be able to negotiate even a better salary with your employer.

Don't Be Afraid to Network (or Apply)

Most people don't apply for certain jobs, not because they don't qualify, but because they don't believe they do. To get rid of this fear and self-doubt, job experts recommend networking. In addition, unless the job listing specifically states that an eligible candidate must have a certain level of experience, you don't have anything to lose but so much to gain when applying for an entry-level job. 

Bottom Line

These are some of the best entry-level jobs in 2022. However, it's important to note that the salaries provided under each job description may vary due to different factors. For example, the location of the employer, size of the company, employment policies, and duties and responsibilities of that specific role could influence the kind of salary to expect when you get hired. In addition, some companies may pay more for individuals working full-time than those in part-time positions.