13 High-Paying Entry-Level Jobs Requiring No Experience

Searching for your first job can be challenging when employers expect candidates to have an established work history. Fortunately, some occupations allow people to enter without previous experience in the field.

“No experience required” does not always mean that a job has no entry requirements. Some positions require a degree, license, certification, apprenticeship or technical portfolio. The distinction is that candidates may qualify without having held a previous job in the same occupation.

The salary figures below are May 2024 occupational medians from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. They represent workers at all experience levels and are not guaranteed starting salaries. Actual pay varies by employer, location, qualifications and performance.

13 High-Paying Entry-Level Jobs That Require No Related Experience

1. Elevator and Escalator Installer or Repairer

Median annual pay: $106,580

Elevator and escalator installers assemble, maintain, inspect and repair elevators, moving walkways and similar equipment. They read technical plans, connect electrical components, test safety systems and diagnose mechanical problems.

Candidates typically need a high school diploma and enter the occupation through an apprenticeship. Most states also require a license. The work can be physically demanding and may involve heights, confined spaces and emergency callouts. BLS notes that related work experience is not typically required, although apprentices earn less than fully trained mechanics.

2. Computer Systems Analyst

Median annual pay: $103,790

Computer systems analysts study an organization’s technology and recommend ways to improve efficiency. They may research new systems, evaluate costs, test implementations and help technical and business teams understand one another.

A bachelor’s degree is typically required, although the field of study can vary. Employers may accept candidates with business knowledge and strong technical skills, making internships and academic projects valuable. BLS lists no related work experience as the typical requirement for entering the occupation.

3. Radiation Therapist

Median annual pay: $101,990

Radiation therapists administer prescribed radiation treatments to patients with cancer and other serious conditions. They position patients, operate treatment equipment, follow safety procedures and maintain accurate records.

Candidates usually need an associate or bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy. Most states require licensing or certification, which commonly involves passing an examination. Although previous employment is not normally required, the role demands formal clinical preparation and considerable attention to safety. BLS: Radiation Therapists

4. Dental Hygienist

Median annual pay: $94,260

Dental hygienists examine patients for signs of oral health problems, remove deposits from teeth, take X-rays and provide guidance about preventive care.

The typical pathway includes completing an accredited dental hygiene program and obtaining a state license. Programs commonly provide supervised clinical practice, allowing graduates to qualify without previous professional experience. Interpersonal skills are important because hygienists work closely with patients who may feel uncomfortable or anxious.

5. Technical Writer

Median annual pay: $91,670

Technical writers create manuals, product documentation, how-to guides and other materials that explain complex information. They often collaborate with engineers, developers, product managers and subject-matter experts.

A bachelor’s degree is commonly expected, and knowledge of a technical subject can improve a candidate’s prospects. Entry-level applicants can demonstrate their ability through writing samples, documentation projects or contributions to open-source products.

6. Web Developer

Median annual pay: $90,930

Web developers build and maintain websites. Their work may involve writing code, creating interactive features, troubleshooting errors, improving performance and collaborating with designers.

Education requirements range from a high school diploma to a bachelor’s degree. Some employers focus more on demonstrated technical ability than formal credentials. A portfolio containing functional websites, applications and code samples can therefore help a candidate qualify without professional development experience.

7. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

Median annual pay: $89,340

Diagnostic medical sonographers operate ultrasound equipment to create images that physicians use when evaluating medical conditions. They prepare patients, select suitable equipment settings, capture images and review the results for quality.

Candidates commonly need an associate degree or postsecondary certificate. Some employers require professional certification. Educational programs include technical and clinical training, which can prepare graduates to enter the occupation without a previous sonography job.

8. Accountant or Auditor

Median annual pay: $81,680

Accountants prepare and examine financial records, while auditors evaluate records and controls for accuracy and compliance. Entry-level duties may include reconciling accounts, preparing reports, reviewing transactions and supporting tax or audit projects.

A bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related subject is the typical entry requirement. Becoming a Certified Public Accountant may improve advancement opportunities, although not every entry-level accounting position requires the credential. BLS lists no related work experience as the standard requirement.

9. Respiratory Therapist

Median annual pay: $80,450

Respiratory therapists evaluate and treat patients who have difficulty breathing. They may perform diagnostic tests, administer treatments, manage ventilation equipment and educate patients about respiratory care.

An associate degree is the typical entry-level qualification, and nearly every state requires respiratory therapists to hold a license. Clinical education provides practical preparation before graduation, so candidates do not normally need prior employment in the occupation. 

10. Police Officer

Median annual pay: $77,270 for police and detectives

Police officers respond to emergencies, patrol assigned areas, enforce laws, collect evidence and prepare incident reports. The position can involve physical risk, irregular schedules and stressful interactions.

Entry requirements vary by agency and may range from a high school diploma to a college degree. Candidates generally need to meet age, background, physical and personal requirements before completing academy and on-the-job training. Applicants do not need previous experience as police officers.

11. Claims Adjuster, Examiner or Investigator

Median annual pay: $76,790

Claims professionals evaluate insurance claims to determine whether an insurer should provide coverage and how much it should pay. They may inspect damaged property, interview claimants, review reports and analyze policy terms.

A high school diploma may be sufficient for some entry-level adjuster and examiner positions, although other employers prefer a bachelor’s degree. Licensing requirements differ by state. Insurance companies may provide training in claim procedures, estimating software and relevant regulations.

12. Wholesale or Manufacturing Sales Representative

Median annual pay: $74,100

Wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives sell products to businesses, government agencies and other organizations. They identify prospects, explain product features, negotiate terms and maintain customer relationships.

A high school diploma may be sufficient when selling nontechnical products, while scientific or technical sales positions often require a bachelor’s degree. Employers commonly provide product and sales training, allowing motivated candidates to enter without prior sales experience. Earnings may include commissions or bonuses, so total compensation can vary substantially. 

13. Human Resources Specialist or Recruiter

Median annual pay: $72,910

Human resources specialists recruit candidates, review applications, conduct interviews and assist with onboarding. Depending on the position, they may also support employee relations, benefits or training.

A bachelor’s degree in human resources, business, communications or a related field is the typical qualification. Candidates can strengthen their applications through internships, volunteer recruiting, student organizations and projects demonstrating communication and organization. The BLS classifies related experience as unnecessary for typical entry into the occupation, although individual employers may prefer it.

How To Get a High-Paying Job Without Experience

A strong application can show employers that you are capable of succeeding even when you lack a conventional work history.

Identify transferable skills

Experience from school, volunteering, personal projects and part-time work can demonstrate communication, leadership, technical ability, organization and problem-solving.

Create proof of your skills

Build a portfolio containing writing samples, websites, reports, presentations, designs or case studies. Evidence of ability can be more persuasive than simply listing skills on a resume.

Pursue trainee and apprenticeship positions

Search for terms such as “trainee,” “apprentice,” “junior,” “associate,” “graduate” and “entry level.” These positions are more likely to include structured training.

Earn relevant credentials

A license, certificate or completed course can show that you understand the fundamentals of an occupation. Research employer requirements before paying for a program.

Customize each application

Use the job description to identify important skills and keywords. Adjust your resume so the most relevant education, projects and transferable experience are easy to find.

Prepare examples for interviews

Be ready to explain how you learned a difficult skill, managed a deadline, solved a problem or worked with other people. Examples do not have to come from full-time employment.

Use Dokie To Present Your Experience Professionally

Candidates without extensive work histories often need to demonstrate their abilities through projects, case studies and portfolios. Dokie can turn written project notes, documents or URLs into a structured presentation that explains the problem, process and result clearly.

Dokie can also help candidates create interview presentations, professional portfolios and project summaries using polished layouts. Presentations can be edited, aligned with a preferred style and exported as PowerPoint files for interviews or applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an entry-level job really pay a high salary?

Yes, especially when the occupation requires specialized education, licensing, technical ability or an apprenticeship. However, published occupational medians include experienced workers, so initial compensation may be lower.

Does “no experience required” mean no qualifications are required?

No. A position may not require previous employment but still require a degree, license, certification, portfolio, physical examination or training program.

How can I prove my abilities without work experience?

Use academic assignments, independent projects, volunteer work, certifications and skill-based portfolios. Describe what you did, which tools you used and what result you achieved.

Should I apply if a job prefers one year of experience?

Yes, if you meet most of the important requirements. “Preferred” experience is not always mandatory, and relevant projects, internships or transferable skills may make you a competitive candidate.