As a recent college graduate, you’re looking for entry-level jobs that can kick-start your career. We’ve compiled a list of the top 20 entry-level jobs for recent college graduates, along with their average salaries and tips on how to source candidates through recruiting firms and candidate-sourcing strategies.
It’s likely that the job market and candidate pool will change drastically as Gen Z starts to consider college and pay rates for entry-level positions. As a staffing firm, Merito Group is diligently monitoring the job market to provide the best information for our clients and potential candidates.
Creative Entry-Level Jobs:
Content Writer
Content writers can expect an average salary of $44,000 per year. An entry-level content writer is responsible for creating written content for various mediums such as websites, social media, and marketing materials. They may conduct research, interview subject matter experts, and write engaging and informative copies that meet the intended audience’s needs while also supporting the organization’s goals.
Entry-Level Graphic Designer
Graphic designers can expect an average salary of $50,000 per year. An entry-level graphic designer is responsible for creating visual concepts that communicate ideas to inspire, inform, or captivate consumers. They work with a team to develop designs that meet the needs of clients and convey the desired message. They use software and other tools to create designs for a variety of mediums such as websites, print materials, and packaging.
Marketing Coordinator
Marketing coordinators can expect an average salary of $50,000 per year. Marketing coordinators assist with the development and implementation of marketing campaigns for a company or organization. They work closely with the marketing team to create content such as social media posts, emails, and advertisements, and organize and coordinate events and promotions. Marketing coordinators also conduct market research and analyze data to evaluate the effectiveness of marketing strategies.
Project Management-Based Entry-Level Jobs
Administrative Assistant
Administrative assistants can expect an average salary of $37,000 per year. Administrative assistants provide support to an organization’s executives or other employees by performing various clerical and administrative duties. This can include managing schedules, arranging meetings, preparing reports and documents, handling correspondence, and performing general office tasks such as answering phones and greeting visitors.
Event Coordinator
Event coordinators can expect an average salary of $47,000 per year. An event coordinator is responsible for planning and coordinating events, such as weddings, corporate meetings, and social gatherings. They work closely with clients to determine their needs and preferences, secure event venues and vendors, manage budgets, and ensure that events run smoothly and meet the expectations of all stakeholders.
Junior Project Coordinator
Project coordinators can expect an average salary of $54,000 per year. A project coordinator is responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and monitoring of projects. They work with project managers and team members to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget and meet the requirements of stakeholders. They may also be responsible for developing project plans, tracking progress, and communicating project status updates to key stakeholders.
Executive Assistant
Executive assistants can expect an average salary of $58,000 per year. An executive assistant is responsible for providing high-level administrative support to executives or other senior-level leaders within an organization. They manage schedules, coordinate travel arrangements, prepare reports and correspondence, and serve as a point of contact for internal and external stakeholders. They may also be responsible for managing confidential information and coordinating special projects or events on behalf of the executive they support.
Junior Account Manager
Junior account managers can expect an average salary of $50,000 per year. A junior account manager is responsible for building and maintaining relationships with clients, identifying opportunities to grow the client base, and ensuring that clients are satisfied with the products or services provided by the organization. They may also be responsible for monitoring account activity, preparing reports, and working with other members of the sales team to achieve revenue targets. Strong communication skills, organizational skills, and attention to detail are typically required for this role.
Human Services Entry-Level Jobs
Sales Representative
Sales representatives can expect an average salary of $48,000 per year. Sales representatives are responsible for selling a company’s products or services to potential customers. They identify new leads, reach out to potential customers through cold calling, email or in-person meetings, and use their knowledge of the product or service to persuade customers to make a purchase. Sales representatives also maintain relationships with existing customers and negotiate contracts and pricing on behalf of the company.
Customer Service Representative
Customer service representatives can expect an average salary of $32,000 per year. Customer service representatives are responsible for providing support and assistance to customers who have inquiries, complaints or issues with a company’s products or services. They communicate with customers through various channels such as phone, email, or chat, and strive to resolve customer concerns in a timely and efficient manner. Customer service representatives also maintain records of customer interactions and escalate complex issues to higher-level support teams when necessary.
Human Resources Coordinator
Human resources coordinators can expect an average salary of $49,000 per year. Human resources coordinators assist with various tasks related to employee management, recruitment, and retention. They may assist with the hiring process, including posting job openings, reviewing resumes, and conducting interviews. They may also help manage employee benefits, maintain employee records, and handle employee relations issues. Human resources coordinators play a key role in ensuring the organization complies with employment laws and regulations.
Data Analyst
Data analysts can expect an average salary of $62,000 per year. An entry-level data analyst is responsible for collecting and analyzing substantial amounts of data to identify patterns, trends, and insights. They use various tools and software to clean and organize data and use statistical methods to interpret and communicate their findings to key stakeholders. They may also assist with the development of data collection and analysis strategies to support the organization’s goals and objectives.
Tech and Finance Entry-Level Positions
Financial Analyst
Financial analysts can expect an average salary of $67,000 per year. Recruitment firms specializing in finance can help source candidates for this role. Financial analysts are responsible for analyzing financial data to help businesses make informed decisions. They gather and interpret financial data, monitor economic trends, and create reports that summarize financial information and offer recommendations for investment strategies or other financial decisions.
Web Developer
Web developers can expect an average salary of $66,000 per year. Web developers are responsible for designing and creating websites. They use programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to build the visual components and functionality of a website and may also work on backend development tasks such as database management and server configuration.
Accountant
Accountants can expect an average salary of $55,000 per year. An entry-level accountant is responsible for assisting with various accounting tasks such as preparing financial statements, reconciling accounts, and managing financial records. They may also help prepare tax returns and work with senior accountants or other members of the finance team to analyze financial data and identify trends or potential areas for improvement. Strong attention to detail, analytical skills, and proficiency in accounting software are typically required for this role.
Finding a job after college doesn’t have to be hard!
Finding a job after graduating college can be a daunting task, but there are many resources available to help recent graduates find the right career path. One of the most effective ways to secure an entry-level job is by working with a recruitment or staffing firm. These firms have connections with various industries and can help match job seekers with positions that align with their skills and interests.
However, it’s important to remember that recruitment and staffing firms are just one option among many. Graduates should also utilize online job boards, attend career fairs, and network with alumni and industry professionals. By taking a proactive approach to their job search and utilizing a variety of resources, recent graduates can increase their chances of landing their dream job and launching their careers.
