40 Best Entry-Level Jobs That Pay $20 an Hour or More

Entering the job market or shifting careers can be daunting, especially if you’re aiming for positions that offer a competitive wage. The good news is that several entry-level jobs now pay $20 an hour or more, providing a solid starting point for your career. This guide highlights 40 of the best entry-level jobs in 2024 that meet this pay threshold, including key requirements and insights into each role.

1. Virtual Assistant

Description: Virtual assistants support businesses by managing emails, scheduling appointments, and performing various administrative tasks remotely.

Pay: $20-$30 per hour

Requirements: Strong organizational skills, proficiency in office software, and good communication abilities.

Getting Started: Sign up on freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, and create a professional profile showcasing your skills.

2. Medical Coding Specialist

Description: Medical coding specialists translate medical diagnoses and procedures into standardized codes used for billing and insurance purposes.

Pay: $22-$35 per hour

Requirements: Certification in medical coding (such as CPC or CCS), attention to detail, and knowledge of medical terminology.

Getting Started: Obtain certification from recognized institutions and apply for positions in healthcare facilities or remote coding services.

3. Technical Support Specialist

Description: Technical support specialists assist customers with troubleshooting technical issues related to software or hardware.

Pay: $20-$30 per hour

Requirements: Strong problem-solving skills, technical knowledge, and good communication abilities.

Getting Started: Look for positions in IT companies or tech support firms, and highlight any relevant technical certifications or experience.

4. Social Media Manager

Description: Social media managers create and oversee social media campaigns, analyze performance metrics, and engage with audiences on various platforms.

Pay: $20-$35 per hour

Requirements: Knowledge of social media platforms, creativity, and experience in digital marketing.

Getting Started: Build a portfolio of your social media work, and apply for positions through marketing agencies or freelance websites.

5. Data Entry Clerk

Description: Data entry clerks input, update, and maintain data in computer systems and databases.

Pay: $20-$25 per hour

Requirements: Fast typing skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with database software.

Getting Started: Apply for data entry jobs on job boards or company websites, and consider temporary staffing agencies for initial opportunities.

6. Customer Service Representative

Description: Customer service representatives handle inquiries, resolve complaints, and provide information to customers over the phone, via chat, or through email.

Pay: $20-$28 per hour

Requirements: Excellent communication skills, patience, and problem-solving abilities.

Getting Started: Search for customer service roles on job boards or apply directly to companies known for strong customer support departments.

7. Content Writer

Description: Content writers create articles, blog posts, and other written content for websites and publications.

Pay: $20-$40 per hour

Requirements: Strong writing skills, creativity, and the ability to research and produce engaging content.

Getting Started: Build a portfolio of writing samples, and apply for writing gigs on freelance platforms or content creation agencies.

8. Graphic Designer

Description: Graphic designers create visual content for websites, advertisements, and print materials.

Pay: $22-$40 per hour

Requirements: Proficiency in design software (such as Adobe Creative Suite), creativity, and a strong portfolio.

Getting Started: Develop a portfolio showcasing your design work, and look for freelance or entry-level positions at design agencies.

9. Web Developer

Description: Web developers design, build, and maintain websites and web applications.

Pay: $25-$50 per hour

Requirements: Knowledge of programming languages (HTML, CSS, JavaScript), problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.

Getting Started: Create a portfolio of your web development projects, and apply for positions on job boards or freelance websites.

10. SEO Specialist

Description: SEO specialists optimize websites and content to improve their ranking on search engine results pages.

Pay: $22-$40 per hour

Requirements: Understanding of SEO best practices, analytical skills, and experience with SEO tools.

Getting Started: Gain experience by working on personal or freelance projects, and apply for roles at digital marketing agencies or in-house teams.

11. Project Coordinator

Description: Project coordinators assist project managers in organizing and overseeing projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.

Pay: $22-$35 per hour

Requirements: Organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in project management software.

Getting Started: Apply for roles in various industries, including construction, IT, and marketing, through job boards or company websites.

12. Transcriptionist

Description: Transcriptionists convert audio recordings into written text, often for legal, medical, or business purposes.

Pay: $20-$30 per hour

Requirements: Fast typing skills, excellent listening abilities, and familiarity with transcription software.

Getting Started: Join transcription platforms or apply for positions with transcription services and content creation companies.

13. Paralegal

Description: Paralegals assist lawyers by conducting research, drafting legal documents, and managing case files.

Pay: $22-$40 per hour

Requirements: Paralegal certification, strong organizational skills, and knowledge of legal terminology.

Getting Started: Obtain paralegal certification and apply for positions in law firms or legal departments.

14. Administrative Assistant

Description: Administrative assistants handle office tasks such as managing schedules, handling correspondence, and organizing files.

Pay: $20-$28 per hour

Requirements: Strong organizational skills, proficiency in office software, and good communication abilities.

Getting Started: Apply for administrative assistant positions on job boards or through staffing agencies.

15. Sales Representative

Description: Sales representatives sell products or services, manage client relationships, and meet sales targets.

Pay: $20-$35 per hour, often with commission

Requirements: Strong sales skills, communication abilities, and a persuasive personality.

Getting Started: Look for entry-level sales roles with companies offering training programs or apply through job boards.

16. Online Tutor

Description: Online tutors provide academic support and instruction to students via virtual platforms.

Pay: $20-$40 per hour

Requirements: Expertise in a specific subject area, good communication skills, and experience in teaching or tutoring.

Getting Started: Sign up on tutoring platforms or offer your services independently through educational websites.

17. Event Coordinator

Description: Event coordinators plan and organize events, including meetings, weddings, and corporate functions.

Pay: $22-$35 per hour

Requirements: Organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience in event planning.

Getting Started: Apply for roles with event planning companies or consider freelance opportunities.

18. Digital Marketing Assistant

Description: Digital marketing assistants support marketing teams with tasks such as managing social media, creating content, and analyzing campaign performance.

Pay: $20-$30 per hour

Requirements: Basic knowledge of digital marketing, creativity, and proficiency in marketing tools.

Getting Started: Apply for positions with marketing agencies or companies with in-house marketing teams.

19. Recruitment Coordinator

Description: Recruitment coordinators assist with the hiring process by scheduling interviews, coordinating with candidates, and managing job postings.

Pay: $22-$35 per hour

Requirements: Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience in HR or recruitment.

Getting Started: Look for roles in HR departments or recruitment agencies.

20. UX/UI Designer

Description: UX/UI designers work on improving the user experience and interface design of websites and applications.

Pay: $25-$50 per hour

Requirements: Proficiency in design tools (such as Sketch or Figma), understanding of user experience principles, and a strong portfolio.

Getting Started: Build a portfolio of UX/UI design projects and apply for positions with tech companies or design agencies.

21. Customer Success Manager

Description: Customer success managers ensure customers are satisfied with products or services, providing support and assistance as needed.

Pay: $22-$40 per hour

Requirements: Strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and experience in customer service.

Getting Started: Apply for roles in customer success departments or at SaaS companies.

22. Real Estate Agent

Description: Real estate agents help clients buy, sell, and rent properties, guiding them through the real estate process.

Pay: $20-$50 per hour, with commission

Requirements: Real estate license, strong sales skills, and knowledge of the local real estate market.

Getting Started: Obtain a real estate license and apply for positions with real estate agencies or consider freelance opportunities.

23. Travel Agent

Description: Travel agents assist clients in planning and booking travel arrangements, including flights, accommodations, and tours.

Pay: $20-$35 per hour

Requirements: Knowledge of travel destinations, good communication skills, and experience with booking systems.

Getting Started: Apply for roles with travel agencies or consider working as an independent travel agent.

24. Personal Trainer

Description: Personal trainers create and implement fitness plans for clients, helping them achieve their health and fitness goals.

Pay: $20-$50 per hour

Requirements: Certification in personal training, strong communication skills, and a passion for fitness.

Getting Started: Obtain certification and apply for positions at gyms or offer personal training services independently.

25. Database Administrator

Description: Database administrators manage and maintain databases, ensuring their performance, security, and reliability.

Pay: $25-$50 per hour

Requirements: Knowledge of database management systems, problem-solving skills, and experience in database administration.

Getting Started: Apply for positions with IT departments or database management firms.

26. Video Editor

Description: Video editors work on editing video footage, adding effects, and creating polished video content.

Pay: $20-$40 per hour

Requirements: Proficiency in video editing software (such as Adobe Premiere Pro), creativity, and a strong portfolio.

Getting Started: Build a portfolio of video editing work and apply for positions with media companies or freelance opportunities.

27. IT Support Specialist

Description: IT support specialists assist with technical issues, providing support for hardware, software, and network problems.

Pay: $22-$35 per hour

Requirements: Technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and experience with IT support.

Getting Started: Apply for positions with IT support companies or internal IT departments.

28. Business Analyst

Description: Business analysts analyze business processes, identify areas for improvement, and provide solutions to enhance efficiency.

Pay: $25-$45 per hour

Requirements: Analytical skills, experience with business analysis, and proficiency in data analysis tools.

Getting Started: Apply for positions in business analysis with various companies or consultancies.

29. Content Moderator

Description: Content moderators review and manage user-generated content on websites and social media platforms to ensure it meets community guidelines.

Pay: $20-$30 per hour

Requirements: Attention to detail, understanding of content policies, and good communication skills.

Getting Started: Apply for roles with social media companies or content moderation services.

30. Construction Inspector

Description: Construction inspectors examine construction sites and projects to ensure compliance with safety codes and regulations.

Pay: $25-$50 per hour

Requirements: Knowledge of construction codes, attention to detail, and experience in construction.

Getting Started: Apply for positions with construction firms or government agencies.

31. E-commerce Specialist

Description: E-commerce specialists manage online store operations, including product listings, customer service, and sales strategies.

Pay: $20-$35 per hour

Requirements: Knowledge of e-commerce platforms, marketing skills, and experience with online sales.

Getting Started: Apply for positions with e-commerce companies or online retail businesses.

32. HR Assistant

Description: HR assistants support human resources departments with tasks such as recruiting, onboarding, and employee records management.

Pay: $20-$30 per hour

Requirements: Organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience with HR functions.

Getting Started: Apply for roles in HR departments or staffing agencies.

33. Copy Editor

Description: Copy editors review written content for grammatical errors, clarity, and consistency, ensuring it is ready for publication.

Pay: $22-$40 per hour

Requirements: Strong grammar and editing skills, attention to detail, and experience with editing.

Getting Started: Build a portfolio of editing work and apply for positions with publishing companies or freelance opportunities.

34. Financial Analyst

Description: Financial analysts evaluate financial data, prepare reports, and provide investment recommendations.

Pay: $25-$50 per hour

Requirements: Strong analytical skills, knowledge of financial principles, and proficiency in financial software.

Getting Started: Apply for roles in finance departments or financial consulting firms.

35. Software Tester

Description: Software testers test software applications for bugs and issues, ensuring they meet quality standards before release.

Pay: $22-$40 per hour

Requirements: Attention to detail, understanding of software testing processes, and familiarity with testing tools.

Getting Started: Apply for positions with software development companies or testing services.

36. Clinical Research Coordinator

Description: Clinical research coordinators manage clinical trials, ensuring compliance with protocols and regulations.

Pay: $25-$45 per hour

Requirements: Knowledge of clinical research processes, organizational skills, and attention to detail.

Getting Started: Apply for roles in research institutions or pharmaceutical companies.

37. Real Estate Appraiser

Description: Real estate appraisers evaluate properties to determine their market value for sales, purchases, or financing purposes.

Pay: $25-$50 per hour

Requirements: Certification in real estate appraisal, knowledge of property valuation, and strong analytical skills.

Getting Started: Obtain certification and apply for positions with appraisal firms or real estate agencies.

38. Market Research Analyst

Description: Market research analysts gather and analyze market data to help companies understand consumer behavior and make informed business decisions.

Pay: $25-$50 per hour

Requirements: Analytical skills, experience with market research, and proficiency in data analysis tools.

Getting Started: Apply for positions with market research firms or within companies' marketing departments.

39. Legal Secretary

Description: Legal secretaries provide administrative support to lawyers by managing legal documents, scheduling meetings, and handling client communications.

Pay: $20-$35 per hour

Requirements: Knowledge of legal terminology, organizational skills, and proficiency in office software.

Getting Started: Apply for positions in law firms or legal departments.

40. Telehealth Nurse

Description: Telehealth nurses provide remote healthcare services, including consultations and follow-ups, via phone or video calls.

Pay: $25-$45 per hour

Requirements: Registered nurse license, experience in healthcare, and good communication skills.

Getting Started: Apply for telehealth positions with healthcare providers or telemedicine companies.

FAQs

1. What qualifications do I need for these entry-level jobs?

Qualifications vary by role but generally include relevant skills, experience, and sometimes certifications. Many positions require strong communication skills and a foundational understanding of the job's specific requirements.

2. How can I find entry-level jobs that pay $20 an hour or more?

Use job search engines, industry-specific job boards, and company websites. Networking and applying directly to companies are also effective methods.

3. Are there any remote opportunities for these jobs?

Yes, many of these roles, such as virtual assistants, customer service representatives, and content writers, offer remote work options.

4. How do I negotiate a higher salary for an entry-level job?

Research industry standards, highlight your skills and relevant experience, and be prepared to discuss your value during the interview.

5. What skills are most in-demand for these positions?

Skills in communication, organization, problem-solving, and proficiency with relevant software or tools are highly sought after.

6. Can I advance to higher-paying positions from these entry-level jobs?

Yes, gaining experience and developing skills can lead to promotions and higher-paying roles within the same field or industry.

7. What kind of companies offer these entry-level jobs?

Companies across various industries, including technology, healthcare, finance, and marketing, offer these roles.

8. Do I need specific certifications for these jobs?

Some roles, like medical coding specialists and real estate appraisers, require certifications. Others may benefit from relevant certifications but do not always require them.

9. How flexible are the work hours for these jobs?

Flexibility varies by job. Roles such as virtual assistants and online tutors often offer flexible hours, while others may have more traditional schedules.

10. What is the typical career progression for these roles?

Career progression often involves gaining experience, pursuing additional training or certifications, and seeking higher-level positions within the same field.

11. Are there any part-time opportunities for these jobs?

Yes, many entry-level roles offer part-time options, especially in fields like customer service, administrative support, and content creation.

12. How can I prepare for an interview for these roles?

Research the company, understand the job requirements, and practice common interview questions. Highlight your skills and experience relevant to the role.

13. What is the job outlook for these positions?

The job outlook varies by industry, but many of these roles are in growing fields such as technology, healthcare, and digital marketing.

14. Can I work multiple entry-level jobs at once?

Yes, working multiple part-time or freelance jobs can be a viable option if the schedules are manageable and do not conflict.

15. How can I stay competitive in the job market?

Continuously develop your skills, stay updated with industry trends, and build a strong professional network to stay competitive.

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