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Rob L.
Rob L.

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The Best Entry Level Careers in Technology

The world of technology is a fascinating one. Almost everything in our daily lives is touched or controlled by some form of technological function. From the vehicles that we drive or ride on to the computers that we use at work to the climate-controlling devices that we use in our homes, technology is all around us. 



Perhaps the wide usage of technology-based devices is the cause of an increasing number of individuals who are seeking a career in technology. Yet, entering this field of study is not as simple as it may seem. Opportunities are endless, yet so is the number of potential job candidates. While you would undeniably need some form of education to succeed in some technological jobs, not all of them are based on education or experience. More options for entry level careers in technology exist than one might presume. Upon further research of this topic, I found that there are quite a few entry level positions in technology-based careers. These careers include the following:


Front-End Developer



Found amidst the world of both design and technology, a Front-End Developer is a web-developer who aides in the coding of the front end of a website. Therefore, a Front-End Developer controls how web designs get implemented. By taking web page design files and converting them into Javascript, HTML, or CSS code, this position strives to create an inviting front end for user interaction.



Back-End Developer



While a Back-End Web Developer must understand the web technologies that front-end based, such as Javascript and HTML, they focus more on the internal perspective of web applications and assist in building the "server" side of these applications. While utilizing server-side script language, such as Ruby and PHP, Back-End Developers create the logic that forces web apps to function properly.



Unsure about those two? Here you can learn more about front-end vs back-end development.

Data Analyst



Translating numbers into English language is the main goal of a successful Data Analyst. From sales figures to logistics, this position strives to help companies make better business decisions. To advance in this position, a Bachelor's Degree is likely required. However, entry level positions and certifications are also options for entry-level employment.



Software Tester



If finding bugs and issues in software is your niche, then a career in software testing might be for you. Prior to a product getting deployed to everyday users, a software tester is responsible for conducting manual and automatic tests to ensure that the created software is fit for the intended purpose and functions correctly. Though every company has its own levels of hierarchy, software testing is often considered to be an entry-level position.



System Administrator



Also known as a "Sysadmin," a System Administrator heads up the configuration and maintenance of specific computer systems, which may also include servers. Daily monitoring, data backups, infrastructure administration, and malware protection are crucial components of a System Administrators duties. System Administrators are employed in many different industries and this field of employment is expected to grow by 6 percent over the next ten years.



Database Administrator



Database Administrators, or "DBAs," are expected to use specialized software with the intent to store and organize data. Installation, configuration, and troubleshooting are some common job responsibilities. Typically, a certification is expected of an individual who is employed in this position. However, experience and education will often suffice.

Marketing Assistant



Nearly every company has a Marketing Department, if not a Marketing Sector, that is responsible for image promotion, responsive networking, and development of marketing strategies. These goals aide in company growth and financial success. A Marketing Assistance is typically responsible for supporting the Marketing Department by performing primary and administrative duties. Therefore, this position requires commitment to both marketing tasks and typical administrative duties, as well. It is also quite possible for these types of positions to be virtually based, as they can be performed remotely.



Customer Support



An individual in Customer Support is often the first point of contact that a client makes with a provider. These individuals are expected to provide quick troubleshooting and advice at the most rudimentary level. They must know the technology well enough to provide instruction to other users and employees but are not typically involved in the development and integration of the technology itself.



UX Designer



A UX Designer is commonly known as a "User Experience" professional. This job position focuses on enhancing user satisfaction by improving usability and accessibility within a product. Happy clients give great reviews and bring in other potential clients. The goal of a UX Designer is to make products easy to use. 



UI Designer



User Interface Designers are probably some of the most commonly sought-out professionals in the current technology environment. These professionals deal more with the graphical user interface via wireframes, mood boards, and interface design tools. In this profession, it is crucial to understand the user's mindset, predict their expectations, and make the design as user-friendly as possible to entice users to engage.



Community Manager



Building. Growing. Managing. These are all tasks that a Community Manager is expected to perform in an online community. Engaging with customers/fans, utilizing social media analytics, and creating forum discussions are common tasks of a Community Manager. 



Business Development Assistant



Supporting the sales department and any customer relations managers is crucial for a Business Development Assistant. An individual in this role would typically maintain a customer database, develop sales and marketing strategies, and attract new customers through promotional and advertising efforts.



Product Designer



A Product Designer is responsible for altering the look of existing products, changing the way that they work and/or producing them at a reduced cost. By solving real-world problems and developing potential solutions, a Product Designer is able to maintain relevance and necessity of the products that their company specializes in.



Executive Assistant



As a provider of high-level administrative support, an Executive Assistant is the lifeblood of an executive office. This assistant would aide in tasks, such as preparing the boss's calendar, scheduling meetings, conducting research, and preparing statistical reports. In essence, an Executive Assistant must be exceptional at a variety of different skill sets.



Office Manager



An Office Manager is, perhaps, one of the most basic entry level careers in technology. However, it allows an employee to understand the inner workings of an office environment from technology to daily processing to employee handling. An individual in this position is responsible for the overall functioning of an office environment.



Recruiter



Recruiters are responsible for seeking out potential job candidates, providing them with incentives to join a particular company, and connecting them with management for interview scheduling. Posting and managing job postings, managing social media, and analyzing outreach is beneficial for this career choice.



Selecting a Career Path



With all of these options for entry level technology careers, how can one choose the best option? Considering your past experience, utilizing available resources in your area, and knowing the limitations or opportunities near you are all important factors to consider. Technology opportunities are everywhere you look, but it is up to you to determine your own direction.

Thanks!

If you want to learn more about these careers and how you can get started check out:
Front-end Developer Porfolio Tips
Tech Salaries Organized by State

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