The field of computer science offers a wide range of career opportunities, especially for recent graduates and those looking to start their careers in tech. Entry-level computer science jobs provide a solid foundation for growth, skill development, and long-term career success.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best entry-level computer science jobs, required skills, salary expectations, and tips for landing your first role. Whether you’re a recent graduate or transitioning into tech, this article will help you navigate the job market effectively.

What Are Entry-Level Computer Science Jobs?

Entry level computer science jobs are positions designed for individuals with little to no professional experience in the field. These roles typically require foundational knowledge in programming, algorithms, data structures, and software development.

Many entry-level jobs also offer on-the-job training, mentorship, and opportunities for career advancement. Companies hiring for these positions include tech giants (like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon), startups, government agencies, and financial institutions.

Top Entry-Level Computer Science Jobs in 2024

1. Software Developer

Average Salary: $70,000–$100,000 per year
Key Skills: Programming (Python, Java, C++), problem-solving, software development lifecycle

Software developers design, build, and maintain applications and systems. Entry-level developers often work under senior engineers, contributing to coding, debugging, and testing.

2. Web Developer

Average Salary: $50,000–$85,000 per year
Key Skills: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, front-end frameworks (React, Angular)

Web developers create and maintain websites. Entry-level roles may focus on front-end (user interface) or back-end (server-side) development.

3. Data Analyst

Average Salary: $55,000–$80,000 per year
Key Skills: SQL, Python/R, data visualization (Tableau, Power BI)

Data analysts interpret data to help businesses make informed decisions. Entry-level analysts clean, analyze, and present data using statistical tools.

4. IT Support Specialist

Average Salary: $45,000–$70,000 per year
Key Skills: Troubleshooting, networking, operating systems (Windows, Linux)

IT support specialists assist with technical issues, software installations, and system maintenance. Certifications like CompTIA A+ can boost employability.

5. Quality Assurance (QA) Tester

Average Salary: $50,000–$75,000 per year
Key Skills: Testing methodologies, bug tracking (JIRA), automation tools (Selenium)

QA testers ensure software products are bug-free by running tests and reporting issues. Entry-level testers often work with development teams to improve software quality.

6. Systems Administrator

Average Salary: $60,000–$90,000 per year
Key Skills: Network management, cloud computing (AWS, Azure), scripting

Systems administrators manage an organization’s IT infrastructure, including servers, networks, and security systems.

7. Cybersecurity Analyst

Average Salary: $65,000–$95,000 per year
Key Skills: Ethical hacking, threat detection, security protocols

Cybersecurity analysts protect systems from cyber threats. Entry-level roles may involve monitoring networks and implementing security measures.

8. Database Administrator (DBA)

Average Salary: $60,000–$85,000 per year
Key Skills: SQL, database management (MySQL, Oracle), backup & recovery

DBAs ensure databases run efficiently, securely, and without errors.

9. Junior DevOps Engineer

Average Salary: $70,000–$110,000 per year
Key Skills: CI/CD pipelines, Docker, Kubernetes, cloud platforms

DevOps engineers bridge development and IT operations, automating software deployment and infrastructure management.

10. Technical Writer

Average Salary: $50,000–$75,000 per year
Key Skills: Technical documentation, markdown, collaboration tools

Technical writers create manuals, guides, and documentation for software and hardware products.

Skills Needed for Entry-Level Computer Science Jobs

To secure an entry-level computer science job, you’ll need a mix of technical and soft skills:

Technical Skills

• Programming Languages: Python, Java, JavaScript, C++

• Web Development: HTML, CSS, React, Node.js

• Databases: SQL, MongoDB

• Version Control: Git, GitHub

• Operating Systems: Linux, Windows

• Cloud Computing: AWS, Azure, Google Cloud

Soft Skills

• Problem-solving

• Communication

• Teamwork

• Time management

• Adaptability

How to Land an Entry-Level Computer Science Job

1. Build a Strong Resume

• Highlight projects, internships, and coursework.

• Include relevant certifications (e.g., Google IT Support, AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner).

2. Gain Practical Experience

• Work on personal projects (GitHub portfolio).

• Contribute to open-source projects.

• Complete internships or freelance work.

3. Network Effectively

• Attend tech meetups, hackathons, and career fairs.

• Connect with professionals on LinkedIn.

4. Prepare for Interviews

• Practice coding challenges (LeetCode, HackerRank).

• Review data structures and algorithms.

• Prepare for behavioral questions (STAR method).

5. Apply Strategically

• Use job boards (Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn Jobs).

• Target companies with entry-level programs (Google STEP, Microsoft LEAP).

Salary Expectations for Entry-Level Roles

Salaries vary based on location, company size, and experience.

Future Growth and Career Advancement

Entry-level computer science jobs serve as stepping stones to higher-paying roles such as:

• Senior Software Engineer

• Data Scientist

• Cloud Architect

• Cybersecurity Manager

• IT Project Manager

Continuous learning (certifications, advanced degrees) and gaining hands-on experience will help accelerate career growth.

Conclusion

Entry-level computer science jobs offer excellent opportunities for career growth, competitive salaries, and skill development. By focusing on in-demand skills, gaining practical experience, and networking effectively, you can secure a rewarding position in the tech industry.

Start applying today and take the first step toward a successful career in computer science!

FAQs About Entry-Level Computer Science Jobs

1. What Are the Best Entry-Level Computer Science Jobs?

Some of the best entry-level computer science jobs include:

• Software Developer – Builds and maintains applications.

• Web Developer – Designs and develops websites.

• Data Analyst – Interprets data for business decisions.

• IT Support Specialist – Troubleshoots technical issues.

• QA Tester – Ensures software quality through testing.

• Cybersecurity Analyst – Protects systems from cyber threats.

These roles offer strong career growth, competitive salaries, and opportunities to advance.

2. What Skills Do I Need for an Entry Level Computer Science Job?

Technical Skills

• Programming Languages: Python, Java, JavaScript, C++

• Web Development: HTML, CSS, React, Node.js

• Databases: SQL, MongoDB

• Version Control: Git, GitHub

• Operating Systems: Linux, Windows

• Cloud Computing: AWS, Azure

Soft Skills

• Problem-solving

• Communication

• Teamwork

• Time management

Having a mix of these skills increases employability.

3. Do I Need a Degree to Get an Entry-Level CS Job?

While a computer science degree is helpful, it’s not always required. Many professionals enter the field through:

• Coding bootcamps (e.g., General Assembly, Flatiron School)

• Online certifications (Google IT Support, AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner)

• Self-taught programming (via freeCodeCamp, Coursera)

• Internships & apprenticeships

Employers often prioritize skills and experience over formal education.

4. How Much Can I Earn in an Entry-Level Computer Science Job?

Salaries vary by role and location:

Tech hubs (Silicon Valley, NYC) pay higher salaries than smaller cities.

5. How Can I Get Experience Without a Job?

If you lack professional experience, try:
✅ Personal Projects – Build apps, websites, or automation scripts.
✅ Open-Source Contributions – Help improve GitHub projects.
✅ Freelancing – Take small gigs on Upwork or Fiverr.
✅ Internships – Apply for paid/unpaid internships.
✅ Hackathons – Compete in coding challenges.

These experiences strengthen your resume.

6. What Are the Best Job Search Strategies?

To land an entry-level CS job:
✔ Optimize Your Resume – Highlight projects, skills, and certifications.
✔ Use Job Boards – LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, AngelList.
✔ Network – Attend tech meetups, connect on LinkedIn.
✔ Apply to Entry-Level Programs – Google STEP, Microsoft LEAP, IBM Apprenticeships.
✔ Prepare for Interviews – Practice coding problems (LeetCode, HackerRank).

7. What Certifications Help Get an Entry-Level Job?

Some valuable certifications include:

• Google IT Support Professional Certificate (for IT roles)

• AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (for cloud jobs)

• CompTIA A+ (for IT support)

• Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals

• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) (for cybersecurity)

Certifications validate skills and improve job prospects.

8. How Long Does It Take to Get an Entry-Level CS Job?

The timeline varies:

• With a degree: 3–6 months after graduation.

• Self-taught/Bootcamp grads: 6–12 months (depending on skill level).

• Career changers: 1+ year (may need additional training).

Consistent learning and networking speed up the process.

9. What Are Common Interview Questions?

Technical Questions

• Explain a programming concept (e.g., OOP, recursion).

• Solve a coding problem (arrays, strings, algorithms).

• Debug a piece of code.

Behavioral Questions

• “Tell me about a project you worked on.”

• “How do you handle tight deadlines?”

• “Describe a time you solved a difficult problem.”

Practice with mock interviews to improve confidence.

10. Can I Work Remotely in an Entry-Level CS Job?

Yes! Many companies offer remote or hybrid roles for:

• Web Developers

• Software Developers

• Data Analysts

• Technical Support

Look for job postings labeled “Remote” on LinkedIn, We Work Remotely, and Remote.co.

11. What’s the Career Growth Like After an Entry-Level Job?

With experience, you can move into roles like:

• Mid-Level Developer → Senior Software Engineer

• Data Analyst → Data Scientist

• IT Support → Systems Administrator

• QA Tester → Automation Engineer

Continuous learning (certifications, advanced degrees) helps with promotions.

12. Should I Specialize Early or Stay General?

It depends on your goals:

• Generalists (full-stack developers) have flexible career paths.

• Specialists (AI, cybersecurity) earn higher salaries but need deeper expertise.

Early-career professionals often start broad before specializing.

13. How Do I Negotiate My First Job Offer?

• Research salaries (Glassdoor, Payscale).

• Highlight skills & certifications.

• Ask for benefits (remote work, training budgets).

• Be professional but firm.

Many employers expect negotiations, so don’t accept the first offer blindly.

14. What Industries Hire Entry-Level CS Graduates?

Tech isn’t the only option! CS skills are needed in:

• Finance (banks, fintech)

• Healthcare (health IT, bioinformatics)

• E-commerce (Amazon, Shopify)

• Government (cybersecurity, data analysis)

• Gaming (Unity, Unreal Engine development)

Explore different industries to find the best fit.

15. What If I Don’t Like Coding? Are There Non-Programming CS Jobs?

Yes! Consider:

• Technical Writing (documentation, manuals)

• IT Project Management (Agile, Scrum)

• UX/UI Design (user experience design)

• Product Management (bridges tech & business)

• Sales Engineering (tech sales support)

Not all CS jobs require heavy coding.