If you are interested in starting a career in information technology (IT), you might be wondering what are some of the entry-level jobs you can pursue and what are the requirements to get them. IT is a growing and versatile field that offers many opportunities for learning and advancement. In this article, we will answer these questions and provide some information on the average salary range and the required skills or qualifications for each job.
1. Help Desk Technician
A help desk technician is someone who provides technical support to computer users or employees who are having problems with hardware, software, or networks. A help desk technician might maintain, install, or troubleshoot hardware and software, resolve networking issues, or help resolve other problems for other company employees.
Average salary range for a Help Desk Technician:
According to Coursera , the median annual US salary for a help desk technician is $57,910. According to Computerworld , the average annual UK salary for a help desk technician is £26,000.
Required skills or qualifications for becoming a Help Desk Technician:
A help desk technician should have knowledge of computer systems and troubleshooting. Some employers might request certifications, associate degrees, or bachelor’s degrees in IT or related fields. A help desk technician should also have good communication and customer service skills.
2. IT technician
An IT technician is similar to a help desk technician, but they are more likely to spend time doing the actual technical work to resolve the issue, rather than just providing assistance over the phone or online. An IT technician should be able to troubleshoot, know how to use several operating systems, and understand the basics of IT networks.
Average salary range for an IT Technician
According to Coursera , the
average annual US salary for an IT technician is $48,594. According to
Computerworld , the average annual UK salary for an IT technician is £28,000.
Required skills or qualifications for an IT Technician
An IT technician
should have knowledge of computer systems and troubleshooting. Some employers
might request certifications, associate degrees, or bachelor’s degrees in IT or
related fields. An IT technician should also have good problem-solving and
analytical skills.
3. Web developer
A web developer is someone who creates websites or web applications using various programming languages, frameworks, and tools. A web developer should be able to design, code, test, and deploy websites or web applications that are functional, user-friendly, and secure.
Average salary range of a Web Developer.
According to Glassdoor , the
average annual US salary for a web developer is $91,749. According to Glassdoor
, the average annual UK salary for a web developer is £39,925.
Required skills or qualifications:
A web developer should have knowledge of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and other web development technologies. Some employers might request certifications, associate degrees, or bachelor’s degrees in web development or related fields. A web developer should also have good creativity and attention to detail.
4. Data analyst
A data analyst is someone who collects, processes, analyzes, and interprets data using various tools and techniques. A data analyst should be able to provide insights and recommendations based on data analysis to help businesses make informed decisions.
Average salary range of a Data Analyst
According to Glassdoor , the
average annual US salary for a data analyst is $71,974. According to Glassdoor
, the average annual UK salary for a data analyst is £38,149.
Required skills or qualifications:
A data analyst should have knowledge of statistics, mathematics, programming languages (such as Python or R), and data analysis tools (such as Excel or SQL). Some employers might request certifications, associate degrees, or bachelor’s degrees in data analysis or related fields. A data analyst should also have good critical thinking and communication skills.
5. Cybersecurity Analyst
A cybersecurity analyst is someone who protects computer systems and networks from cyberattacks using various methods and tools. A cybersecurity analyst should be able to monitor, detect, prevent, and respond to cyber threats and incidents.
A verage salary range for a Cybersecurity Analyst
According to ZipRecruiter , the average annual US salary for a cybersecurity analyst is $93,519. According to Prospects , the average annual UK Starting salary for a cybersecurity analyst is £30,000.
Required skills or qualifications:
A cybersecurity analyst should have knowledge of cybersecurity principles, practices, and technologies. Some employers might request certifications (such as CompTIA Security+), associate degrees, or bachelor’s degrees in cybersecurity or related fields. A cybersecurity analyst should also have good analytical and problem-solving skills.