6 entry level IT jobs to start your career

Tech jobs are out there and waiting for you. Check out this list and apply today.

By Sarah White, Monster contributor

A successful career in technology begins with scouting out some awesome entry-level IT jobs. But with a multitude of tech jobs and companies clambering for your talent, it may feel overwhelming to determine a solid starting point.

On the upside, that means odds are in your favor. With more and more people relying on technology in their everyday lives—not to mention the number of industries taking advantage of technology—you can expect to enjoy a rewarding career path.

To help you decide where you'd like to kick-start your career, Monster rounded up six entry-level IT and technician jobs and the salaries you can expect to make, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and salary.com.

Computer technician

What you'd do: Computer technicians often wear many hats in IT and most eventually branch off into specializations in the field. Computer technicians generally work independently, for a business or company, or in a computer repair shop. As a computer technician, you will need to be skilled in how a computer is built in order to diagnose and fix any hardware issues.
What you'd need: Most computer technicians start out with a similar education and an A+ Certification. Once they begin working in the field, they will usually find a specialty such as networks, desktops, servers, and more.
What you'd make: $48,900 per year

Find computer technician jobs on Monster.

Desktop support technician

What you'd do: Desktop support technicians are first in line when a problem arises with a company’s desktop computers. As a desktop support technician you will have to troubleshoot problems either in person or remotely and help restore the customer’s computer to working condition. You will be responsible for a range of tasks including configuring, testing, and troubleshooting network and wireless issues, setting up user accounts, and formatting and setting up desktop and laptop computers.
What you'd need: You will generally need a bachelor’s degree in IT or a related field. Some companies will hire employees who have a high school diploma or GED, as long as they have solid experience in IT.
What you'd make: $47,674 per year

Find desktop support technician jobs on Monster.

Help desk technician

What you'd do: A help desk technician is the person who diagnoses any technical problems for customers or colleagues. While they aren’t usually responsible for fixing the problem, a help desk technician will be able to discover the issue, so that the customer or colleague can have the issue fixed by another person in the IT department.
What you'd need: In order to become a help desk technician, you will need at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science or information systems management. However, some jobs may only require a high school diploma and a certification. Check out this help desk technician sample resume.
What you'd make: $50,889 per year

Find help desk technician jobs on Monster.

IT support analyst

What you'd do: IT support analysts are the go to person for a company when a department isn’t happy with how their systems are working. They will work on improving technologies and avoiding future problems by planning ahead for any issues that might arise. It’s a job that requires strong analytical skills and an understanding of hardware, software, applications, and systems.
What you'd need: To become an IT support analyst, you will need at least bachelor’s degree in information technology. Some positions may require a master’s degree in either computer science or business administration with a focus on information systems, depending on the job.
What you'd make: $59,129 per year

Find IT support analyst jobs on Monster.

IT support specialist

What you'd do: IT support specialists are responsible for setting up, installing, and troubleshooting technology and software. They are also charged with upgrading, servicing, and maintaining all hardware and software for a company. The role may also involve managing a company’s smartphones and tablets in addition to any desktops or notebooks. As an IT support specialist, you will work closely with customers to offer training, solutions, and troubleshooting. You might also have to work with vendors and other clients, so you will need to have strong communication skills.
What you'd need: In order to become an IT support specialist, you will need at least a high school diploma as well as some previous technical experience. Some jobs may also require a two or four year college degree or technical certifications. Check out this IT worker sample resume.
What you'd make: $56,401 per year

Find IT support specialist jobs on Monster.

Systems administrator

What you'd do: Systems administrators are responsible for creating and maintaining computer systems and networks for a company. As a systems administrator you will be responsible for figuring out an organization’s needs in terms of networks and computers and then implementing that plan. It involves setting up computers and networks, maintaining the hardware and systems, and keeping software up to date.
What you'd need: There is no specific major for a systems administrator, but a bachelor’s degree in computer science or computer engineering will give you the groundwork you need. You will also need to continue your education throughout your career as technology evolves and changes. Check out this systems administrator sample resume.
What you'd make: $81,100 per year

Find system administrator jobs on Monster.

Upgrade your job search

If only there were an algorithm that could transport you from your couch to the perfect job. Unfortunately, technology isn't there—yet. Need some job-search help in the meantime? Join Monster for free today. As a member, you can upload up to five versions of your cover letter and resume—each tailored to different types of tech jobs that interest you. Recruiters search Monster every day looking to fill top jobs with qualified candidates, just like you. Additionally, you can get job alerts sent directly to your inbox so you can be among the first to apply to the latest openings. Avoid job-search malfunctions by relying on support from Monster.