Tech isn't just for coders and computer science majors anymore.
Whether you're a liberal arts student, recent grad or just curious about a pivot into tech, the industry is packed with accessible, high-paying opportunities - even if you've never written a line of code.
And you're not alone in the search. The phrase "entry-level tech jobs" gets Googled over 5,900 times a month, which means thousands of people (probably while stress-snacking at 1 a.m.) are asking the same thing: How do I actually break into tech with zero experience?
If you're ready to launch a career that's future-proof, flexible and filled with growth, read on. This guide breaks down how to get an entry-level tech job with no experience, the best entry-level tech jobs out there, and the top resources available to help University of Cincinnati students succeed in this industry.
Entry-level tech jobs are beginner roles that typically don't require professional experience or a computer science degree. Many are "learn-on-the-job" or come with training options, and more employers are focused on skills over resumes.
Tech roles include a wide variety of options - everything from coding and cybersecurity to UX design, digital marketing and IT support. Whether you're analytical, creative or somewhere in between, there's a role for you.
You don't need a computer science degree - or any prior experience - to start a career in tech. Thanks to online certifications, skill-based hiring, and supportive resources at UC, there are multiple paths to landing your first job.
Here's your roadmap to becoming career-ready:
1. Pick a path: Start by identifying a role that fits your strengths and interests. For example, if you like solving problems and helping people, IT support or QA testing could be a strong fit. If you're more analytical, consider data analytics or digital marketing. Creative? Explore UX or front-end design. Then, look into certification programs that match the entry point for that role.
💡 Still undecided or unsure where to start? UC's School of Information Technology Student Success Program can help you navigate your options and connect you with advisors to help you make the best choice.
2. Earn a certification: Certifications show employers you're serious, and most are self-paced, low-cost and widely respected in the industry. A few top picks:
- Google IT Support Professional Certificate (Coursera)
- Meta Front-End Developer Certificate
- CompTIA A+
- Google Data Analytics Certificate
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
💡 UC students get free access to LinkedIn Learning, which includes many of these courses.
3. Build a portfolio: Even if you're just starting, showcasing your work makes a big difference. Create a GitHub or Fiverr profile with:
- Mini coding projects
- Case studies
- Tech tutorial walk-throughs
- Blog posts explaining what you've learned
For non-coders: Think UX mockups, SEO reports or sample social media audits.
4. Network like a pro: Tech is like one big happy family, tap into it.
- Use Indeed, Dice, LinkedIn and Handshake to connect with recruiters and hiring managers
- Attend campus tech events or career fairs
- Don't be afraid to cold-message professionals with genuine interest
💡 Pro tip: Ask about other professionals' paths into tech - you might be surprised how many started just like you.
5. Apply broadly - and smartly: Target roles labeled "entry-level" or "associate" and use keywords like: 'entry-level tech jobs no experience,' 'remote entry-level tech jobs, and 'IT jobs for recent graduates.'
💡Pro tip: Tailor your resume to highlight transferable skills: problem-solving, teamwork, time management, or even managing a student org.
💡 Want more guidance? Check out our blog: How to Start Your Career in IT for a deeper dive into building skills, choosing the right certification, and launching your tech journey at UC.
Many tech roles are beginner-accessible and can serve as a launchpad into more specialized positions. Some of the most popular entry-level roles include:
1. IT Support Specialist
- Why it's a great start: This role gives you hands-on experience with hardware, software and troubleshooting - ideal for developing foundational knowledge of systems and networks.
- Average salary: $50,000+
- Certifications to consider: CompTIA A+, Google IT Support
2. Web Developer
- Why it's a great start: Web development teaches coding, design and problem-solving for websites. Many developers are self-taught or come from boot camps.
- Average salary: $55,000-$65,000
- Skills you'll need: HTML, CSS, JavaScript
3. Cybersecurity Analyst
- Why it's a great start: Cybersecurity is booming, and you don't need to be an expert to begin. Entry-level cybersecurity jobs focus on monitoring systems for suspicious activity and implementing basic security practices to prevent cyberattacks.
- Average salary: $65,000+
- Certifications to consider: CompTIA Security+, IBM Cybersecurity Analyst
4. Data Analyst
- Why it's a great start: Companies need help making data-driven decisions, and this role is perfect for analytical minds to collect, organize and interpret data.
- Average salary: $60,000-$70,000
- Tools to learn: Excel, SQL, Tableau
5. Technical Support Engineer
- Why it's a great start: It blends customer service with tech troubleshooting, making it one of the best tech jobs for beginners.
- Average salary: $55,000-$65,000
- Remote-friendly? Yes
6. QA Tester (Quality Assurance)
- Why it's a great start: You'll test websites or apps for bugs - perfect if you're detail-oriented.
- Average salary: $55,000
7. Digital Marketing Coordinator or Analyst
- Why it's a great start: Focuses on online growth through SEO, content creation and analytics - a great choice for communications or business majors
- Average salary: $60,000
These roles don't require mastery - just a commitment to learning and a clear demonstration of your skills, which you can show through certifications, small projects or portfolio work.
The shift toward hybrid and remote work has made tech one of the most flexible industries. Many of the jobs listed above - particularly in IT support, QA testing and marketing - are now fully remote or hybrid, which is ideal for students or graduates seeking location flexibility.
Great sites to find remote entry-level jobs include:
Filter by "entry-level," "junior," or "remote" on LinkedIn, Indeed or Handshake.
Remote roles aren't just for senior professionals. Many companies are hiring entry-level tech roles that are fully remote, including:
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Web Developer
- Digital Project Coordinator
- Remote QA Tester
- Tech Support Specialist
Want to work in tech but coding isn't your thing? You're not alone. Here are a few tech jobs without coding:
- UX Designer
- Project Coordinator
- Product Manager (Associate)
- IT Support Analyst
- SEO Specialist
- Tech Sales Development Representative
These roles lean into communication, creativity and organization, making them great for non-STEM majors.
Want to aim high? Here are a few of the best-paying beginner roles (with the right training/cert):
- Software Engineer: Average salary: $90,000+ per year
- Cybersecurity Analyst: Average salary: $85,000+ per year
- Cloud Engineer: Average salary: $100,000+ per year
- Data Scientist: Average salary: $110,000+ per year
These roles often offer bonuses, stock options and room for advancement - all while being accessible with the right certification or training. If you're unsure about salary expectations or how to negotiate, UC's Career Services can help guide you through the process.
Even the biggest companies are looking for beginners - and they're building paths just for you.
- IBM: Their SkillsBuild and tech reentry programs offer training and opportunities for beginners.
- Google: Offers apprenticeship and certificate-aligned roles through programs like Grow with Google.
- Amazon/AWS: Frequently hires cloud support roles that are remote and entry-level.
- JPMorgan Chase: Their growing tech presence in Cincinnati makes them a strong local option for Bearcats.
- Startups and nonprofits: Often open to students or recent grads for part-time or contract-based tech roles in areas like UX research, social media and analytics.
Here's how UC can help you launch your tech career:
- UC's Career Services: Resume reviews, mock interviews, job fairs, and employer connections
- Bearcat Promise Career Studio: Offers one-on-one career coaching
- Engage in professional development: Join UC's student IT organizations or take on leadership roles to strengthen your network and skillset.
- LinkedIn learning: Free tech courses for UC students
- Get real-world experience: Most undergraduate and graduate programs in IT include or offer co-op experience. The UC co-op program boasts a 99% placement rate for IT students.
Breaking into tech might seem overwhelming, but it's more doable than ever. With thousands of entry-level tech jobs hiring now - many of them remote, flexible and high-paying-there's never been a better time to dive in.
Start with one small step. Whether that's signing up for a free course, reaching out to a UC career advisor, or applying to an internship, you're already on your way.
Ready to make your first move? Head to Handshake to find your next opportunity or schedule a 1:1 with a career coach through Bearcat Promise Career Studio.
