by Mary P Ivy

Created on: July 05, 2010   Last Updated: July 14, 2010

Even though the jobs picture is not exactly bright, remember that even now there are entry level jobs available and companies are hiring. This holds true for college and high school grads. Just recently (June, 2010) Lynn O’Shaughnessy reported on some good news for those seeking that all-important first job.

Job seekers will still need great skills, a strong academic record and just plain luck in landing that first job. But the good news is that in a variety of fields there are openings for entry-level employees.

Technology

Of course, technology companies lead the list, especially Verizon Wireless, with a reported 10,500 entry-level positions for 2010. This company also offers great benefits, as recently reported by workingmother.com. Another tech company with promise for new grads is Hewlett Packard, which expects to hire more than 5,000 entry-level personnel.

Social work and teaching

Socially oriented jobs such as Teach for America combined with jobs in the Peace Corps will seek out another 8,640 new grads for their entry-level positions.

Finance

Accounting, finance and insurance will be good places for new grads to apply. Ernst & Young will be looking for 1,977 workers while PricewaterhousCoopers will need 1,440. Vanguard will need 600 entry level grads while Liberty Mutual will need almost that many, 550.

Entry level jobs for high school graduates are promising as well.

Railroads and transportation

Recent high school grads might want to check with one of the railroad companies such as Burlington-Northern Santa Fe or Union Pacific. There are a surprising number of high-paying entry level positions. Many of these jobs offer on the job training for those with good reading and math skills, basic computer skills and a good background check. These can also lead to supervisory positions over time.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects good job growth in the rail transportation industry because of the high rate of retiring workers and the demands brought on by continuing global trade. BLS reports an expected 9% increase in overall hiring, adding an additional 12,000 jobs between 2008-2018.

Health care and health-care related fields

For high school grads looking for entry-level jobs, health care and related services are also strong growth areas. Whether in physical therapy, dentistry, institutional settings or home health care, many entry-level positions are available and some offer on the job training. Even better, if job seekers have any postsecondary training and certification, the odds of being hired increase and the pay is of course better. But even without any post-secondary work, recent grads may find employment.

Related to direct patient care are openings for data entry and medical records. For grads with strong math skills and high school bookkeeping, these jobs could be a great place to begin.

Whether the entry-level job seeker has a college degree or a high school diploma, those with solid skills, an engaging personality and a strong work ethic will find a good number of entry-level positions.

Sources:

CBS MoneyWatch

Bureau of Labor Statistics

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