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5 entry-level IT jobs and how to get them

By Ana Isabel Alonsagay


With the rapid evolution of technology, the world of IT is rife with career and business opportunity. Rising fields such as those in AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity have led to a spike in Australian demand for related talents; with plenty of training paths and resources now available to address growing skills gaps. 

Those with a passionate interest for technology will find no shortage of exciting roles to explore, with more specialities only bound to emerge. 

If you’re new to the industry, and looking to build your work experience, below are five of the best entry-level IT jobs – and the training options to help hone your skills. 

What are the best entry-level IT jobs?

1. Front-end web developer. 

Front-end web developers focus on the graphical design, layout, and interactivity of a website; the “user-facing” code that allows visitors to easily navigate its pages. These include the fonts, colour scheme, and drop-down menus of the site, requiring skills and experience in three main programming languages: HTML, CSS, and Javascript. 

Those in this field work closely with other designers and website analysts to bring company objectives to fruition. They must also possess a keen eye for detail, helping them identify any issues in the user experience and providing recommendations or solutions to improve overall design. The role demands both creativity and technical skill, best suited to those with programming experience and an eye for online visual aesthetics.

According to Payscale, front-end web developers earn an average of $77,134 AUD a year.  

Recommended course: ICT30120 - Certificate III in Information Technology - Focus on Web Development 

This program allows one to hone their critical, creative, and teamwork skills while building experience in introductory programming techniques, development of simple web pages, and evaluating cloud computing solutions. 

2. Software developer. 

Entry-level software developers typically focus on simple programming activities, such as developing simple pieces of code to achieve specific, straightforward tasks. These can also be combined to create larger programs; though as experience grows, those in the field can often progress to more advanced, complex, managerial projects. 

However, those starting out in software development may begin by simply debugging, testing, and updating software applications or programs. These are often done on a routine schedule, allowing them to familiarise themselves with the codebase used by their company. 

This role is currently one of the most high demand jobs in Australia, with further growth expected in the coming years. Problem-solving skills, mathematical aptitude, and an eye for visual design are a must; as well as experience across various programming languages for higher-level opportunities. 

According to Payscale, the average software developer earns about $69,828 a year. 

Recommended course: ICT30120 - Certificate III in Information Technology - Focus on Programming

This program explores the fundamentals of programming, along with the skills to build simple websites, provide ICT-related advice, and use scripting language to create interactive or automated software programs. 

3. Help desk technician. 

help desk support

Professionals in help desk support offer technical IT assistance to clients (or in-house employees) over the phone, remotely, or in person. They may tend to inquiries related to hardware, software, or networks; assisting users in matters of maintenance, delivery, configuration, or troubleshooting of such systems. 

Help desk technicians may also train in-house staff on computer use, as well as troubleshooting or diagnosing common problems. They may also write and edit training manuals to build reports based on common user complaints or problems. Those working in this role must thus have excellent communication abilities, interpersonal skills, customer service experience, and an extensive knowledge of the technology at hand. 

According to Payscale, help desk technicians earn an average of $49,739 AUD a year.

Recommended course: ICT30120 - Certificate III in Information Technology

This course covers the foundations of IT across various areas, including web development, programming, cybersecurity, and user documentation. Students will also build soft skills in teamwork and provide effective ICT advice.  

4. Junior cloud engineer. 

With cloud computing technology on the rise (and adoption rates increasing), demand for skills in the field have been greater than ever. Those looking to step foot in this exciting, growing industry can launch their career path as a junior cloud engineer; an entry-level role that allows you to further your knowledge of cloud computing while gaining practical skills in cloud design and information management.

Junior cloud engineers typically work on developing the foundations of cloud networks, along with handling the storage and migration of data. They’re also often supervised by higher-level cloud engineers who train them while on the job. Success in this role requires a skill set in programming, software development, and a solid knowledge of computer technology.

According to Payscale, the average salary for general cloud computing skills currently sits on a generous $135,000 AUD per year.   

Recommended course: ICT30120 - Certificate III in Information Technology - Focus on Basic Cloud Computing

This course explores the basics of cloud computing, including fundamental knowledge in cloud delivery and deployment models, the characteristics of effective cloud solutions, cloud software configuration, and basic cyber security skills. 

5. IT security specialist. 

Finally, entry-level IT professionals may find the start to a fulfilling career path in the role of an IT security (or cyber security) specialist. This position is tasked with overseeing the security measures across a company’s IT system, monitoring networks for any attacks, intrusions, or suspicious behaviour. They may also take part in the development of certain software systems or data centres, providing the security they require.

Cyber security specialists are responsible for tending to vulnerabilities in a business’ security system, as well as applying the tools or software necessary to ensure further protection. They also get to decide which users have access to certain information, typically installing firewalls to establish file access permissions and user access of company data. 

According to Payscale, IT security specialists earn an average of $88,518 AUD per year. 

Recommended course: ICT30120 - Certificate III in Information Technology - Focus on Basic Cyber Security Awareness

This program focuses on the fundamental skills of cyber security, including ways of promoting cyber security awareness, implementing best practices, identifying online threats, and managing the security of digital devices.

How VMware and AWS Certifications can help you find an entry-level job 

information technology professional

VMware and AWS certifications are valuable assets for any aspiring IT professional, as they equip you with internationally recognised credentials from the world’s leading virtualisation and cloud computing platform (respectively). 

Professionals who are VMware-certified will also gain access to the platform’s official content, along with discounted admission to VMware events, invitations to beta exams and classes, and an official digital badge to share across your social media. 

Similarly, those certified under AWS will also earn a digital badge of achievement, a discount voucher to any other exam (or for recertification), invites to AWS events, and access to their community on LinkedIn. 

Get the skills you need for an entry-level IT job today! 

The world of IT is rich with opportunity, with plenty of entry-level roles to kick off your career journey.

Upskilled offers a wide variety of IT-related courses to help build your skills – from certificates in the IT fundamentals to fully-fledged bachelor degrees. Explore your interests across areas such as cloud computing, cyber security, software development, and more.

Best of all, our online delivery allows you to train at a time, place, and pace that suits you best. 

Expand your skills as an IT professional, and enquire with us on a course today. 
 
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