10 High-Paying Entry-Level Jobs and How to Find Them

Embarking on a career path can be as daunting as it is exciting, especially for new graduates aiming to secure their footing in the professional world. With an ever-evolving job market, it's more crucial than ever for job seekers to be informed about which industries tend to offer high-paying entry-level roles. High-salary prospects fresh out of college not only provide financial stability but also set the tone for future earnings and career progression.

Today's job search landscape offers numerous possibilities for graduates and career changers eager to start earning a robust paycheck from day one. Whether through advanced technical capabilities or exceptional interpersonal skills, young professionals can carve out high-paying niches early if they know where to look.

Top 10 High-Paying Entry-Level Jobs

In the current job market, a high-paying entry-level job is not simply a springboard into the professional realm; it's a launchpad for future financial independence and career satisfaction.

We created our list of the 10 highest paying entry level jobs by reviewing 2024 job data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With that data, we ranked the positions with the best entry-level salary from highest to lowest. It is worth noting that some professions have a higher cost to entry than others, requiring multiple degrees in some cases. So, while the immediate starting salary may be higher, the overall value may take time to materialize if you have to pay off significant loans from your education.

1. Physician Assistant (PA)

Average Starting Salary: Approximately $86,280 per year​

Average Salary Across All Experience Levels: $130,020 per year

Top 10% of Earners: $170,790+

Role Overview: Physician Assistants practice medicine under the supervision of physicians and surgeons. They are trained to examine patients, diagnose injuries and illnesses, and provide treatment.​

Typical Job Requirements:

• Master's degree from an accredited educational program​
• State licensure​
• Clinical training experience​‍

Potential Career Path:

• Specialization in areas such as surgery or emergency medicine​
• Transition into healthcare administration​
• Pursue further education to become a physician​

2. Software Developer

Average Starting Salary: Approximately $77,020 per year​

Average Salary Across All Experience Levels: $132,270 per year​

Top 10% of Earners: $208,620+​

Role Overview: Software Developers design, develop, and maintain software applications or systems, working closely with clients or stakeholders to understand requirements and ensure software solutions meet user needs.​

Typical Job Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field​
• Proficiency in programming languages (e.g., Java, Python, C++)​
• Strong problem-solving skills​‍

Potential Career Path:

• Senior Developer​
• Software Architect
• Engineering Manager​
• Chief Technology Officer (CTO)​

3. Electrical Engineer

Average Starting Salary: Approximately $69,320 per year​

Average Salary Across All Experience Levels: $106,950 per year​

Highest 10% of Earners: $172,050+

Role Overview: Electrical Engineers design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacturing of electrical equipment, such as electric motors, radar and navigation systems, communications systems, and power generation equipment.​

Typical Job Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field​
• Proficiency in design and calculation software​
• Strong understanding of electrical systems and components​

Potential Career Path:

• Electrical Engineer​
• Senior Electrical Engineer​
• Engineering Manager​
• Director of Engineering

4. Actuary

Average Starting Salary: Approximately $66,030 per year​

Average Salary Across All Experience Levels: $120,000 per year​

Pay Range (Entry-Level to Senior): $182,680+​

Role Overview: Actuaries analyze financial costs of risk and uncertainty using mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to study uncertain future events, especially those related to insurance and pensions.​

Typical Job Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Actuarial Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or related field​
• Pass a series of actuarial exams​
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills​

Potential Career Path:

• Associate Actuary​
• Actuary​
• Senior Actuary​
• Chief Risk Officer​
  

5. Occupational Therapist

Average Starting Salary: Approximately $65,210 per year​

Average Salary Across All Experience Levels: $96,370 per year​

Top 10% of Earners: $129,620+​

Role Overview: Occupational Therapists help patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working.​

Typical Job Requirements:

• Master's degree in Occupational Therapy​
• State licensure​
• Completion of fieldwork requirements​

Potential Career Path:

• Senior Occupational Therapist
• Lead Occupational Therapist or Clinical Specialist
• OT Supervisor or Rehab Manager
• Director of Rehabilitation Services
• Executive-Level (i.e. Chief Clinical Officer or Healthcare Administrator)

6. Construction Manager

Average Starting Salary: Approximately $64,480 per year​

Average Salary Across All Experience Levels: $104,900 per year​

Top 10% of Earners: $172,040+​

Role Overview: Construction Managers plan, coordinate, budget, and supervise construction projects from start to finish, ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget.​

Typical Job Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field​
• Experience in construction or related field​
• Strong leadership and project management skills​

Potential Career Path:

• Assistant Construction Manager​
• Construction Manager​
• Senior Construction Manager​
• Director of Construction​

7. Data Scientist

Average Starting Salary: Approximately $63,790 per year​

Average Salary Across All Experience Levels: $103,930 per year

Top 10% of Earners: $167,040+​

Role Overview: Data Scientists analyze complex data to help organizations make informed decisions. They use statistical techniques and machine learning algorithms to interpret data and predict trends.​

Typical Job Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, or related field​
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R​
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills​

Potential Career Path:

• Senior Data Scientist
• Data Science Manager​
• Chief Data Officer

8. Registered Nurse (RN)

Average Starting Salary: Approximately $63,720 per year​

Average Salary Across All Experience Levels: $86,070 per year​

Top 10% of Earners: $132,680+​

Role Overview: RNs provide patient care, educate patients and the public about health conditions, and offer emotional support to patients and their families.​

Typical Job Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Nursing​
• Pass the NCLEX-RN examination​
• State licensure​

Potential Career Path:

• Charge Nurse​
• Nurse Manager​
• Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)​
• Nurse Practitioner​
• Director of Nursing​
  

9. Information Security Analyst

Average Starting Salary: Approximately $62,210 per year​

Average Salary Across All Experience Levels: $120,360 per year​

Top 10% of Earners: $182,370+​

Role Overview: Information Security Analysts plan and carry out security measures to protect an organization's computer networks and systems. Their responsibilities are continually expanding as the number of cyberattacks increases.​

Typical Job Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Assurance, or related field​
• Knowledge of firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS, and other security protocols​
• Relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP))​

Potential Career Path:

• Information Security Analyst​
• Senior Security Analyst​
• Security Manager​
• Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)​

10. Financial Analyst

Average Starting Salary: Approximately $60,830 per year​‍

Average Salary Across All Experience Levels: $99,890 per year​

Top 10% of Earners: $175,840+​

Role Overview: Financial Analysts evaluate financial data, study economic trends, and assist businesses in making informed investment decisions.​

Typical Job Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, or related field​
• Strong analytical and mathematical skills​
• Proficiency in financial modeling and data analysis tools​

Potential Career Path:

• Senior Financial Analyst​
• Finance Manager​
• Director of Finance​
• Chief Financial Officer (CFO)​

Best Industries for High-Paying Entry-Level Jobs

In today's competitive job market, it’s a significant advantage for new graduates to identify industries where high-paying entry-level jobs are not just aspirations but realities. Such industries often share a common trait: they value innovation and are at the forefront of technological or societal trends. Here are some of the highest-paying industries for entry-level employees in the United States today:

1. Technology

Median Salary: The median annual salary for computer and information technology occupations was approximately $104,420 as of May 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Current State: The technology sector is experiencing rapid advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and automation. Companies are investing heavily in AI capabilities, leading to increased efficiency and innovation. ​

Future Outlook: The demand for AI and machine learning specialists is expected to grow significantly. Emerging technologies like spatial computing and advancements in chip technology are projected to drive further expansion in the sector. ​

2. Healthcare 

Median Salary: With a wide variety of healthcare professions, median salary can vary drastically from one speciality to another. Here are a few popular healthcare occupations:

• Registered Nurses (RNs): $86,070‍
• Medical and Health Services Managers: $110,680‍
• Physicians and Surgeons: Equal to or greater than $239,200.

Current State: The healthcare industry is under pressure due to rising costs, workforce shortages, and regulatory challenges. Technological innovations, such as telemedicine and AI-driven diagnostics, are being integrated to improve patient care and operational efficiency.

Future Outlook: The sector is expected to continue growing, driven by an aging population and increased demand for healthcare services. However, challenges like workforce retention and the integration of new technologies will need to be addressed to sustain this growth. ​

3. Finance

Median Salary: Salaries in finance and accounting are on the rise, particularly for roles in accounting operations, financial analysis, and general accounting. Companies are offering higher starting salaries to attract top talent, especially for in-office roles. These are a few median salaries for common finance roles:

• Financial and Investment Analysts: $99,890
• Financial Risk Specialists: $106,090
• Financial Managers: $156,100

Current State: The finance sector is navigating economic uncertainties, including market volatility and regulatory changes. High interest rates and inflation concerns are influencing investment strategies and consumer behavior.

Future Outlook: The industry is poised for transformation, with a focus on digitalization and the adoption of AI to enhance financial services. Firms are expected to invest in technology to improve efficiency and customer experiences.

4. Engineering

Median Salary: The median annual wage for engineers (of all varieties) was $117,097.

Current State: The engineering sector is experiencing growth due to increased infrastructure projects and technological advancements. There is a strong demand for engineers across various disciplines, including civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering. ​

Future Outlook: The industry is expected to continue expanding, driven by investments in sustainable infrastructure and smart technologies. Engineers with expertise in emerging fields like renewable energy and AI integration will be particularly sought after. ​

5. Human Resources (HR)

Median Salary: Human resources managers earned an average annual salary of $136,350.

Current State: HR marketing is evolving with the integration of AI and data analytics to enhance recruitment strategies. Companies are focusing on employer branding and personalized candidate experiences to attract top talent. ​

Future Outlook: The field is projected to grow, with an emphasis on leveraging technology to streamline HR processes and improve employee engagement. Professionals skilled in digital marketing and data-driven decision-making will be in high demand.

Tips for Landing a High-Paying Entry-Level Job

As you embark on your quest for a high-paying entry-level job, you must realize that certain attributes and interests can set you apart from other job seekers. For some roles, a well-crafted resume is your golden ticket, but for others, you must call upon your networking skills, internship and work experience, and knowledge of the company and industry.

Tailor Your Resume to the Role You Want

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In today's competitive job market, where every detail counts, tailoring your resume for coveted entry-level roles can set you apart. It should showcase your educational accomplishments and relevant work experience while also highlighting specific skill sets that industries tend to value. 

When organizing and analyzing your credentials, mirror the language in the desired job listings. This reflective approach can help recruiters immediately recognize your potential value in helping their business succeed.

Network with Industry Professionals

Networking, often undervalued by new graduates, is another critical strategy for securing one of these prized positions. Engaging with professionals already working within your desired industry, or better yet, the company you want to apply to, provides insider knowledge of current trends and unadvertised opportunities. 

Whether through industry meet-ups or professional online platforms, like LinkedIn, building connections can create pathways into companies that offer high-paying entry-level roles. Establishing a rapport with industry insiders offers guidance and potentially influential recommendations come job application time.

Pursue Relevant Internships

Internships and practical work experiences are powerful indicators to employers of your readiness to start working effectively from your first day within their organization. Such experiences demonstrate your ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings—a quality highly regarded across the highest-paying jobs.

Prepare to Nail Your Interview

Finally, when preparing for interviews associated with top-tier entry-level job listings, equip yourself with detailed salary information and company-specific financial data to signal preparedness and genuine interest in the role available. Understanding how each position contributes to overall business objectives, and being able to showcase how your experience is a great fit, allows you to present yourself as an asset poised to address pivotal challenges.

How JobTest.org Can Help

With so many industries offering high-paying entry-level jobs, individuals embarking on a new job search have no shortage of lucrative opportunities to pursue. Yet, there is more to finding the right career than the promise of a healthy paycheck. A high salary does not always equate to feeling fulfilled at work, which is why taking a career test can be a valuable tool.

We are passionate about helping individuals discover the roles that align with their values, skills, interests, and aspirations, so we’ve designed one of the best online career tests. Using an advanced machine learning algorithm and a vast amount of labor statistics and industry data, our career test can identify potential career paths that closely align with your education history, ambitions, and workplace preferences—and it only takes 20 minutes to complete! We also offer professional one-on-one career coaching to further guide you in the right direction with the help of an expert with extensive experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Looking to land a lucrative entry-level position? Check out these frequently asked questions for more tips on making your first role rewarding and well-paying. 

What is considered a high-paying entry-level job?

A high-paying entry-level job offers a salary above the industry average for entry-level positions and typically requires specific qualifications or skills. Data scientists, financial analysts, software developers, and HR managers are among the best-paying jobs for individuals who have recently earned a bachelor's degree.

How do industry growth and stability factor into high-paying opportunities?

Industries experiencing growth are likely to offer more high-paying opportunities due to increased demand for skilled workers, while stable industries may provide more job security.

What qualifications and skills are necessary for high-paying entry-level roles?

Necessary qualifications and skills often include a high school diploma, a relevant bachelor's degree, industry certifications, technical proficiency, excellent communication skills, and problem-solving acumen.

What are some industries known for offering the best entry-level jobs?

Industries such as technology, healthcare, finance, marketing, law, computer science, and engineering are known for offering lucrative entry-level positions.

What tips can help me land a high-paying entry-level job?

Building a strong resume and cover letter, networking with industry professionals, gaining relevant internships or experience, and preparing thoroughly for interviews can increase your chances of landing a high-paying entry-level job.