The tech industry is hot, and technology is everywhere. It’s powering self-driving cars, computers, cell phones, social media platforms, and gaming systems that modern society can’t imagine life without.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in computer and information technology are projected to increase by 11% between 2019 and 2029. This growth rate is significantly faster than the average for all occupations, which is projected to be 3.7%.
It’s safe to say that careers in the technology industry are here to stay and are an excellent option for interested job-seekers. Though getting a foot in the tech industry’s door may seem like a daunting task, there are many ways to get entry-level technical jobs without experience.
Applying For Entry Level Tech Jobs With No Experience: What To Know
Why Do Some Entry Level Tech Jobs Require Experience?
Some entry-level tech jobs do require experience. However, experience does not always mean having done the job role before. Relevant work or educational experience gives hiring managers confidence that you have the skills to do the job well. These skills can be gained through degree programs, certifications, or previous work experience. Additionally, some entry-level technical jobs require experience because a job candidate’s success in the role depends on their ability to understand technical concepts or software.
How To Apply For Entry Level Jobs In Tech and IT With No Experience
It is possible to apply for and secure entry-level technical jobs with no experience. Securing entry-level tech jobs with no experience simply takes a bit of creativity.
Highlight Transferable Skills On Resume
By highlighting transferable skills near the top of a resume, candidates can show the hiring manager they have transferable and relevant industry skills. For example, a candidate interested in an entry-level tech support job may highlight customer service skills on their resume. This skill is transferable to the job because helping customers or clients troubleshoot software takes patience, professionalism, and high-quality communication.
Include Language From Job Description Where Relevant
Including specific language from the job description in a resume can help candidates showcase their unique fit for the role. It can also help recruiters assess the value your experiences can bring to the role you’re applying for. For example, a job description for a help desk analyst may use the phrase “record, track, and document.” Candidates should think about a time they had to record, track, and document something, and include a description of what they did, along with the phrase, in their resume.
Always Write A Cover Letter
When applying for an entry-level tech job with no experience, always write a cover letter. A cover letter offers an opportunity to share your story and provide details about yourself that may not be obvious in your resume. Take the space to share why you’re interested in the role, the company, and the tech industry overall.
Lead With Personability
Hiring managers are more likely to take on a new employee who is personable and easy to get along with. Throughout the hiring process make it a goal to showcase your conversational skills, overall kindness, and your ability to relate with others. You can do this by:
- Asking your interviewer questions about themselves when appropriate
- Telling applicable stories that showcase your communication skills (like leadership skills or group problem solving)
- Expressing interest in the personnel at the company and community-building events
Emphasize Your Go-Getter Attitude
Applying for entry-level tech jobs with no experience can seem overwhelming. However, emphasizing your go-getter nature shows hiring managers that you’ll learn on the job and strive to do well for the company. During the interview, ask about furthering your education at the company and expand on times you were a go-getter.
Work with Paragon
Paragon is one of the top IT staffing agencies. Paragon is great at pairing the perfect employee with the ideal company. Reaching out to Paragon or utilizing their job board can help you land the best entry-level IT job even though you have no experience.
Following these tips will help improve a candidate’s chances of getting an entry-level job with no experience.
Types Of Entry Level Tech Jobs With No Experience
Job seekers interested in tech jobs with no experience should start with this list. While this list isn’t exhaustive, these roles are a great place to start when it comes to entry-level tech jobs.
Entry Level Computer Programmer
An entry-level computer programmer writes and tests code that ensures computer applications and software can operate adequately. Computer programmers have the option to work in an office environment or remotely. Employers generally expect that a candidate has a bachelor’s or associate’s degree. In 2021, the median pay for a computer programmer was $93,000, which averages out to more than $44 an hour. Consider applying for a role with one of Arizona’s top technology employers hiring for this role, such as Axon and GoDaddy.
Requirements
While no experience is necessary, these companies are looking for technologically adept employees with strong critical thinking skills. They also prioritize hiring candidates who work well on their own or in small groups.
Career Path
Many entry-level computer programmers go on to senior-level computer programmer roles or leadership roles. Additionally, computer programmers also delve into freelancing which can allow time and space for working on independent projects like start-ups.
Starting as an entry-level computer programmer allows you to grow and develop your programming skills which is an excellent hard skill to have.
Help Desk Technician
Sometimes called computer support specialists, help desk technicians support companies and individuals or organizations and their employees. Help desk technicians generally work full-time. Often, they work nontraditional hours because computer support must be available around the clock. Some positions may require a bachelor’s degree, while others may require an associate’s degree. In some cases, a few postsecondary classes or certifications may suffice. This is one of the best entry-level tech jobs for newcomers to the industry who’re looking to get experience. On average, help desk technicians make about $57,910, according to the BLS. Freedom Financial and Spear Education, some of Arizona’s top technology companies, are hiring for similar roles.
Requirements
While no experience is necessary, these companies are looking for strong communication skills and individuals who work well under pressure. They also prioritize hiring candidates who are excellent problem solvers.
Career Path
Help desk technicians have many options. Some technicians choose to move through the IT department leadership, while some move on to open their own IT help companies or transition into sales.
This position offers incredibly flexible future career options and prepares employees for a variety of future roles.
Network and Computer Systems Administrator
A network and computer systems administrator is responsible for the day-to-day operation of computer networks. They spend their days monitoring, organizing, installing and supporting an organization’s network and communication systems. This role often requires a bachelor’s degree in a field related to computer or information science. However, some roles may accept an associate’s degree or a postsecondary certification. The median salary for this role in 2021 was $80,600, according to the BLS. Candidates interested in this role should check out roles at GoDaddy, Freedom Financial, and Workiva, incredible tech companies in Arizona.
Requirements
While no experience is necessary, these companies are looking for great organizational skills and attention to detail.
Career Path
Network and computer systems administrators can easily move into the tech security industry or into leadership roles within administration. This position comes with a lot of responsibility and therefore prepares employees well for future leadership roles.
Database Administrator
Database administrators use highly specialized software to store, organize and secure data. Nearly all database administrators work full-time at organizations with large amounts of data. Typically, this role requires a bachelor’s degree that’s related to information or computer technology. The education pays off, as this role had a median salary of $98,860 in 2021. Candidates interested in exploring database administrator roles should explore roles at Axon, and Spear Education.
Requirements
While no experience is necessary, these companies are looking for top organizational skills and the ability to work well alone or in small groups.
Career Path
Database administrators can easily move into the tech security industry or into leadership roles within administration. This position prepares employees well for future management roles.
Software Developer
Software developers are highly-sought after tech professionals who create apps or systems that run on other devices. Employment in this role is projected to increase by 22%, much faster than average, between 2019 and 2029. Software developers are usually expected to have a bachelor’s degree in computer science and strong computer programming skills. The median salary for this role in 2021 was $110,140. This role’s high growth rate and median salary make it one of the best entry-level tech jobs in the market. Job seekers interested in this role should check out opportunities with Workiva, Desert Financial, and GoDaddy.
Requirements
While no experience is necessary, these companies are looking for candidates with great problem-solving skills and good critical thinking skills.
Career Path
Many software developers go on to senior-level software developer roles or leadership roles. Additionally, software developers also delve into freelancing which can allow time and space for working on independent projects.
Tech Companies Now Hiring
Here are some of the top tech companies that are currently hiring. Remember, while applying for any tech or IT position with no experience can be intimidating, you have skills and education that many companies will be very interested in cultivating.
Axon
Axon is a global leader in connected public safety technologies. It is one of Arizona’s best companies and serves thousands of individuals.
Desert Financial
Desert Financial is Arizona’s largest locally based credit union, and they are currently hiring. Their research programs and dedication to inclusivity make them a great place to work.
Freedom Financial
Freedom Financial is a leading digital personal finance company that strives to do excellent work for its clients. They are currently hiring and are viewed as a fast-growing company.
KUBRA
KUBRA offers excellent digital and software solutions. They are currently hiring for several positions, and they’re known as an incredibly inclusive place to work.
Workiva
Workivia is a top software as a service company that’s currently hiring new talent. They are also one of Fortune’s Best Places to Work.
Advance Your Career in the Tech Industry
BestCompaniesAZ is a robust resource for job-seekers interested in working at, or learning about, some of Arizona’s best companies. With BestCompaniesAZ, you can find information about open roles, benefits, culture, and diversity and inclusion efforts at the companies. Check out other best companies that are hiring in the technology discipline. Additionally, explore the BestCompaniesAZ blog to find a plethora of information, resources, and tips for snagging your dream job in Arizona.
Explore the website and contact BestCompaniesAZ today to submit a job application for an entry-level tech job to one of Arizona’s top employers.